Is There An Ideal Baby Carrier?

The arrival of your new baby will cause you to learn new ways to carry her. Some babies enjoy being held seemingly endlessly. Finding a baby carrier can be a great way to make your life easier while also catering to your little one's desire to be close to you. There are many differing types of baby carriers and finding the one for you may be quite challenging.

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.

People who use baby slings as their carrier say that after you learn how to adjust them, they are quite convenient. 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. Baby's weight is evenly distributed on the wearer since this style carrier has straps which fit over both shoulders. 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 has no structured frame and is a long piece of breathable fabric which evenly distributes the weight on the wearer's body. You can pre-tie your wrap so it can be used quickly. 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.

Besides the soft, baby-wearing style baby carriers, there are a variety of framed and unframed backpacks and front carriers ideal for your outdoor adventures. No matter which style you choose, you can be assured that you and your baby will be happy.