The arrival of a new baby to your family brings about many changes. One such change is learning the best way to carry your baby. You may have looked at the many types of baby carriers and wondered how they are all different and if one would work for you and your new family member. Baby carriers can make your life easier and your baby more comfortable.
Keep in mind you may find that there may be more than one type of carrier to meet all your needs. Having an idea of the most popular types of baby carriers and the pros and cons of each is helpful when trying to decide on which type or types to purchase.
Baby slings are the most common type of carrier where you wear your baby close to you. They are soft in the sense they have no frame, and made of fabrics which can mold to you and your baby. Some come with padding and some do not. These carriers are commonly called ring slings because of the rings used to adjust the fabric used for carrying and the amount left as the “tail”. The longer the tail, the higher the baby will be on you. This allows you and your baby to figure out the best position for each of you. Additionally, the tail of a baby ring sling can be a modesty cover for when you are nursing.
Baby slings are quite convenient carriers once you learn how to make the adjustments. Both mom and dad can frequently use the same baby sling since one ring sling can adjust to different sized caregivers.
Your baby can be close to you in the baby pouch. The pouch is similar to the baby sling in that it too does not have any internal framing, just a piece of fabric which is folded into a pouch where baby can snuggle into the wearer. The ends of the fabric are sewn together so there is no adjusting necessary. The pouch is the easiest carrier to use, but some can be anxious since there are no adjustments to be made. Again, like the sling, the pouch goes over one shoulder so you are holding the baby’s weight on one side of you.
Inspired by Asian culture, the Mei Tai carrier also has no structured framework. There are straps which fit over both shoulders so baby’s weight is now evenly distributed on the wearer. Because of the even weight distribution the Mei Tai style is a wonderful carrier for larger babies. You can even wear your toddler with this style carrier. It can also be worn on your back once your baby is able to hold up her head.
The wrap style carrier is one of the most versatile carriers you can use. It can be used in many configurations including a front carry, hip carry, back carry, and any way you can create. The wrap is a long piece of breathable fabric with no structured frame which evenly distributes baby’s weight on the wearer’s body. To use your wrap quickly you can pre-tie it. Most users find this style has the longest learning curve since you have to find the carry style which best meets your needs as well as learn how to actually perform the tie itself.
There are a variety of framed and unframed backpacks and front carriers which can be ideal for your outdoor activties. No matter which style you choose, you can be assured that you and your baby will be happy.
David Cummings is a devoted husband and regular author on many topics. He is committed to helping parents create better family time and to working with children’s organizations. David is also the General Manager for BustlingBaby.com – a company offering products for active parents and babies, such as stroller travel systems and versatile baby pouches
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