Best Baby Carrier for Bonding with Your Little One!
I'm a new mom and one of the biggest challenges I faced was finding a way to keep her close and still be able to do things around the house.
It's no secret that baby carriers can be a lifesaver for moms and dads on the go.
Not only do they keep your little one close to you, but they also free up your hands for other tasks.
Different carriers are better for certain activities and if you ask me it can't hurt to have more than one. Whether you choose a wrap, sling, soft structured carrier, hip seat, or hiking carrier they all serve the same purpose of keeping your baby close and safe.
While there is no one "perfect" baby carrier for every family, taking the time to do some research and finding the right fit for you can make all the difference in enjoying this special bonding time with your little one.
We wish you happy (and hands-free) adventures with your little one!
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Wraps
Looking for the perfect baby carrier for the first 3 months of infancy? Boba wrap carriers are your go-to with their one size fits all and easy tying.
- This carrier is stretchy and soft, made with 95% cotton and 5% spandex that supports you and your little one.
- Making Mama's life a bit easier this wrap is machine-washable and dryer friendly without losing its support. And it is a great option for a twin baby carrier.
- Designed with optimal carry positions in mind, this wrap can distribute weight evenly for both Mom and Dad while allowing the baby to maintain a hip-healthy position- reducing the risk of hip dysplasia.
- Makes bonding a breeze while you get back into the routine of things and is breastfeeding-friendly, allowing mom to nurse without taking the baby out of the wrap, and also provides privacy.
Pros
- Hands-free breastfeeding warmer weather
- Allows an upright position to calm gas and reflux
- Supports hip healthy ergonomic position
- Protects baby's head, neck, and back very well
Cons
- Can get hot while wearing, not recommended for warmer weather
- Some have complained about the extra fabric hanging after being tied
- One-size-fits-YOU wrap is made from 100% cotton providing a breathable and supportive fabric with a unique double-loop design and one-way stretch.
- The K'tan is an easy-to-wear wrap- much like a t-shirt, with no rings, belts, buckles, or annoying excess fabric. Probably one of the best baby carriers for newborns, in my opinion.
- This baby wrap provides a natural seated position decreasing the risk of hip dysplasia and allowing for even weight distribution.
- Helps make mama's life a little easier by keeping the baby close while getting things done and allows easy breastfeeding while on the go.
- It is also machine washable and dryer safe.
Pros
- Pre-wrapped and ready to wear
- No excess fabric
- Personally sized
- No wrapping
- No hardware
Cons
- Personalized fitting so unless your partner is the same size only one can wear the wrap
- Some have complained about it having a lot of tags
Slings
- Nalakai allows you to carry your baby close to your heart while being able to go about your day in comfort and style.
- This ring sling allows you to harness your baby comfortably and naturally while providing an ergonomic position for both you and your baby.
- It is made of super soft bamboo & linen providing a strong, woven fabric that is lightweight. The rings allow you to adjust the support and make it easy for multiple caregivers to use.
- If you are a nursing mama, the tail fabric doubles as a nursing cover, allowing you to nurse on the go.
Pros
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Compact- easy to pack in a purse or diaper bag
Cons
- Thicker material, not recommended for warmer weather
- Some complained that its needs to be adjusted frequently
Are you looking for an easy-to-store and travel-with baby carrier? Look no further than the Gooseket Toddler Sling!
- Suitable for 6 – 48 month olds
- Carrier has two split padded shoulder straps for extra comfort and is perfect for distributing your baby’s weight evenly.
- The strong strap is also great for various body types, making it a brilliant choice for both mums and dads.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Handy for toddler parents
- Non-slip hip pad- for baby's safety
Cons
- Puts more weight on the shoulders
Soft Structure Carriers
- This 4-in-1 convertible carrier has an adjustable ergonomic seat, shoulder straps, and waist belt allowing a more comfortable fit. Designed to fit a wide range of body types.
- You can wear facing-in- with both narrow and wide seats, and facing-out as well as on the back. Unlike other soft structured carriers, there is no need for an infant insert.
- Infantino's flip carrier allows you to experience hands-free convenience and bonding while running errands or exploring parks.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Versatile- 4-position baby carrier
Cons
- Some complain that there are a lot of straps
The Ergobaby Omni 360 is in my opinion, the best baby carrier ever!
This soft structured carrier grows with your baby from newborn to toddler. You can wear inward, outward, hip carry & back carry.
Made with soft and durable mesh that provides the perfect airflow to keep you and your baby cool.
- The shoulder straps are extra padded and can be used in two ways- regular or crossed shoulder.
- The sliders are easy to use allowing you to use one hand for adjustments, making it super easy to switch baby from inward to forward-facing. Also super easy to conveniently nurse your baby.
- Comes with a large removable storage pouch and a UPF baby hood for sun protection and privacy while breastfeeding.
- Provides adjustments for baby's hips to prevent hip dysplasia.
- Omni 360 is machine washable but must be hung to dry.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable mesh
- Lumbar support and crossable shoulder straps
- Easy switch from inward to forward-facing
Cons
- Expensive
- Some complain that it is too big
Hip Seats
- This hip carrier allows for effortless Ups and Downs allowing for more freedom and exploration for your little one.
- Can also double as a small diaper bag with its front storage and additional 4 pockets. The non-slip hip seat supports your baby in an ergonomic position.
You can keep your baby close and save your back with BABYMUST. It has a wide waistband that provides comfort for the caregiver's waist and back and it has an additional padded abdominal pad designed to release pressure for long walks.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Two-way zippers
- Folds into itself for storage
Cons
- Some complain that it makes your back very sweaty
- Handwash only
- Hip seat carrier is lightweight and snaps on with one sturdy, safe buckle.
- Doctor-approved carrier can be used for newborns to toddlers.
- Allows for 4 positions feeding/breastfeeding, side carrying, front facing, and face-to-face with a caregiver.
- TushBaby has one large storage pocket that can hold diapers and wipes as well as keys, phones, and pacifiers in the side pockets. It also folds up for easy transport.
- This hip seat carrier evenly distributes your baby’s weight eliminating strain on your back and provides a plush pad around the abdomen.
Pros
- Easy to wear
- Lots of pockets
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Bulky
- Some complained that it gets hot
Hiking Carriers
Like a padded cacoon, this backpack carrier safely carries your baby with safety straps and stirrups and has a removable sun visor that shields your little one from the sun or rain.
- This carrier was designed to carry your baby for long hours with its adjustable height and heavily padded straps.
- The belt is load-bearing so your baby's weight can be easily distributed.
It has multiple pockets to store all that baby needs as well as an insulated pocket for your baby's bottle. They even included a foldable diaper pad for and clean surface to change your baby in the great outdoors.
Luvdbaby is machine washable and made from waterproof, premium hiking materials. It also provides a kick-out stand that is made from strong lightweight aluminum.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to adjust
- Lots of pockets
- Machine Washable
Cons
- No water bottle holders
- Lightweight stainless steel frame allows for easier travel and storage.
- Poco provides great maneuverability while a child is in the carrier
- Can quickly and easily be fitted to a variety of adult users, making it easier to pass off the load.
- It has ventilated suspension that will keep you cool and has a built-in sunshade that provides UPF 50 sun protection for your little one.
- This backpack carrier can store 21L between a front panel pocket and a lower zippered compartment.
You can safely carry your baby in a fully padded cockpit that is surrounded by an adjustable double halo harness with ventilated side panels that provide maximum comfort.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Folds nearly flat- great for travel and storage
- Easily adjustable for multiple wearers
Cons
- No stirrups for kid's feet
- Hand wash only