- Research different types of carriers to find the one that provides the right support for your newborn’s needs.
- Choose a baby carrier that is safe, provides proper hip support, reduces physical strain and is easy to clean.
- Consider the benefits of using a baby carrier, such as increased parent-child bonding and ease of breastfeeding.
Yes, your hands make the dearest carrier. But sometimes you may need, or just want, to go hands-free. And, that means choosing the best baby carrier for your newborn! But which is the right choice?
From snuggle-inducing slings to trail-worthy hiking backpacks, you’ll find baby carriers galore. While not all are suitable for a newborn’s needs, there are enough options that will make you second-guess your potential purchase.
Tips for choosing a playpen
Not all are the same, so which one is right for you?
This is where some research comes into play. You have questions – and we have answers. So read on for more information on baby carriers, your newborn’s needs, and more!
What are the different types of baby carriers?
The main types of baby carriers include; sling, wrap and pack styles. Some carriers are convertible. This means that the carrier is converted from one use to another. It can transition from a front-facing style to a backpack as the child grows and needs more space, inside-out hold, or another similar type of transformation.
Back style baby carrier
Although backpack-style carriers are popular choices among parents, this type of design is not an option for a newborn. Only children who have the muscle control to hold themselves upright and meet the manufacturer’s size/weight requirements should ride in a backpack.
Better weighted blankets for better sleep
Weighted blankets will help ensure you have the right one to improve sleep, reduce stress and more. Here are the best weighted blankets.
Front-type baby gates
Likewise, forward-facing carriers are not suitable for newborns. Like backpacks, these carriers require the baby to hold their head up unaided. According to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most infants will not have reached this milestone until at least four months of age.
Slings, front-facing wraps, and forward-facing pack carriers usually provide the head and neck support younger babies need. That said, the AAP notes that sling carriers can allow young infants to curl into a C shape. This puts a newborn at risk for breathing problems or can block airflow into the baby’s mouth/nose.
Are there benefits to using a baby carrier?
While you don’t “need” a baby carrier, this popular choice of baby gear is handy – or at least hands-free! Whether you choose a sling-style or front-facing model, carriers have many benefits for babies and their caregivers. These include:
Your natural freedom
Your hands are not tied to a handle when using a baby carrier. This leaves you free to open doors easily, answer your phone if needed, pick up a pack of diapers, or do many other things you couldn’t do while pushing a stroller.
Your baby’s stress level
According to La Leche League Internationalbabywearing can equal a calmer child.
Reduced crying
During times with lower stress levels, a baby in a sling may cry less.
Increased parent-child bonding
Close contact by holding your little one close in a sling or carrier can make bonding easier.
Increased ease of breastfeeding
A study published in Pediatrics found that babywearing can positively affect the likelihood of breastfeeding.
8 Best Baby Brands for Families Who Love Hiking
Get ready for your next outdoor adventure with these premium baby carriers!
Features to consider when buying a baby carrier
What should you look for in a baby carrier for your newborn? Of course, safety is the first priority. Whichever carrier you choose must comply with all federal and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards for this type of product. However, CPSC approval is not the only characteristic a carrier needs. Also search for:
A baby carrier with the right support for a small infant
Whether you choose a sling, wrap or soft carrier, your baby’s head and neck need plenty of support. If your child’s head is not above the fabric line, the material covers their face, or the carrier presses their face against your chest, the product is prohibited.
A baby carrier with a wide base for hip health
Researchers from Boise State University found that wide-based infant carriers had the best effects on hip health (compared to narrow-based carriers). The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) also notes that carriers should put the baby’s legs and hips in an “M” or jockey position.
A baby carrier that is ergonomic and reduces your physical strain
Even though your newborn isn’t exactly heavy, you want to do as much as possible to reduce the strain on your back, hip, and shoulders as much as possible. Choose an ergonomically designed carrier that has plenty of support features.
A baby carrier that is easy to keep clean
Mishaps with poop and diapers can leave a carrier less than clean. Waterproof, machine washable fabrics increase overall comfort and facilitate long-term wear of the carrier.
A baby carrier that you feel comfortable wearing and using
While the wrap style may seem right, if you can’t figure out how to properly wrap the fabric around your body, or if it takes too long to set up, you may not want to wear the holster. Choose a design that you feel comfortable using. If it seems too complicated, has too many instructions, or just doesn’t feel right, you may need to try another style.
