The Right Carrier for You

You’ve heard about wraps, front carriers, slings and pouches, but how do you know which style and brand to choose? We’ve broken down the range of baby carriers to help you find the best option for your child and your lifestyle.

Wrap baby carriers have their pluses—multiple positions, good support and comfort as well as true hands-freedom. The problem is, they can be tricky to get the hang of and that’s where this easy-peasy wrap comes in. Instead of one piece of fabric that’s up to you to finesse, it consists of two loops that’s easy to put on—no wrapping required.

To buy: Baby K’tan, $50

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Now that you have a new baby, there’s a lot to figure out: “Why is she crying?” “Did I feed her enough?” Don’t add “How the heck do I put on this carrier?” to your list. The Hotsling is inherently easy and uncomplicated. Just place it over your shoulder and pop your baby in the pouch. For newborns you’ll use the semi-reclined carry.

To buy: Hotsling, $65

Developed by Dr. William Sears, this sling is a no-brainer to put on, but can also be adjusted as your baby grows using a simple ring system. Four carrying styles (front, cuddle, cradle and hip) and a weight rating of up to 35 pounds will help you keep this carrier in play through toddlerhood.

To buy: Balboa Baby Adjustable Sling, $60

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If you like the front carrier style that BabyBjorn is well known for, its latest model offers the most support and comfort. This version boasts a support belt and more adjustments to allow you to find the best ergonomic position for your needs, depending on where you feel most comfortable carrying the brunt of the weight.

To buy: BabyBjorn Miracle, $185

It’s one of the most popular, award-winning carriers out there and we can see why. ERGObaby took care with the design, which ensures your baby is in the proper ergonomic position to support baby’s hips, pelvis and spinal development. And you’ll benefit from even weight distribution. You can carry tots up to 45 pounds, and with the infant insert you can start carrying at 7 pounds.

To buy: ERGObaby Bundle of Joy Carrier & Insert, $130

Many parents rave about Mei Tai-style carriers for how easy they are to put on—you simply wrap the fabric straps around your waist and tie them in the position that feels most comfortable to you. The thing that makes this carrier stand out most among other Mei Tai options? The low, low price!

To buy: Infantino Sash Mei Tai Carrier, $35

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For active parents it makes sense to look to an outdoor gear guru for a high-performance carrier. This backpack style carrier has lots of features to keep baby (and you) comfortable for long treks. Our favorites include an adjustable, padded child seat, a hip belt with a water bottle pocket, a sun hood, and places to attach your baby's toys.

To buy: Kelty Transit 3.0, $200

Perhaps you like the function of a backpack carrier, but don’t need all the features of one with a $200 price tag? This simple design has a lightweight aluminum frame and is the perfect option for toting your tot around the city whether you’re shopping or sightseeing. It comes in three fun fabric patterns or a simple dad-friendly gray color.

To buy: Kokopax City Carrier, $100

Still want to carry your tot once he’s a toddler? This carrier accommodates kids from birth to 42 pounds. A built-in neck support and six different carry positions will help you transition from stage to stage. If you're worried you'll feel the weight, relax. Special shoulder pads will help keep you comfortable. Another bonus: For a carrier that lasts this long, the price is right!

To buy: Lillebaby Nordic Carrier, $80

If you're not the only one planning to regularly wear the carrier (don't forget about dad, grandma, or the sitter), this one will save you lots of readjustment headaches. You can purchase an extra parent harness that can be easily swapped out when someone else wants to use it.

To buy: Mamas & Papas Morph Pod Carrier & Harness, $140; Extra Harness, $65

Eco-friendly doesn’t have to translate to natural-colored fabric. Petunia Pickle Bottom brings beautiful patterns in organic fabrics to the Sojourn Sling, a pouch-style, easy-to-use option. The natural positioning for baby also means less bulk for you.

To buy: Petunia Pickle Bottom Organic Sojourn Sling, $71

Trust us, dad will be happy to bring baby with him in a carrier if it’s not restricting or covered in a floral pattern. He might even think it’s easier than getting the whole stroller out.This one comes in camouflage or a subtle black and grey pinstripe fabric and will accommodate newborns to toddlers (7 to 45 pounds) in a front or back carry position.

To buy: Diaper Dude BobaCarrier, $125