Babywearing 101: Choosing a carrier

Anyone who has perused this blog knows that babywearing is something that's very important to me. In fact, along with breastfeeding it's probably the most important parenting choice for me. I've already detailed the reasons why in this post, but I want to provide an informational post for those looking for more information or (dare I hope) who would like to begin babywearing themselves. And so, I'm writing this post as an introduction to babywearing, detailing some basic information on common carriers. Also in the works will be a post on babywearing resources for those who want to learn even more and possibly a post on different types of carries in each of the carriers.

Let's begin with a basic word on carriers. No matter what type you choose, it is CRUCIALLY important that your carrier places the baby in a seated position. Commonly available carriers like the Baby Bjorn and the Snuggli are what are known in the babywearing world as "crotch danglers." Carriers or poorly-done-wrap-jobs that do not place the baby in a seated position are not only uncomfortable for both mom and baby, but they can also do permanent damage to your baby's spine! For more information on this, check out this article. Thankfully, there are many carriers on the market now that provide the proper positioning for your baby. It's just up to you to do the research, and unfortunately many parents are completely unaware of the danger. Now, on to the most commonly available types:

Wraps:
Stretchy - These wraps are fantastic for newborns, being both snuggly for baby and forgiving for a novice wrapper. Stretchy wraps are essentially long pieces of knit material, usually jersey cotton, wrapped and tied around the wearer and baby in various carries. These wraps mimic the environment of the womb and are quite comfortable for the wearer. They are also conducive to breastfeeding and offer some variety in the types of carries you do. However, stretchy wraps cannot be used for back carries, and, even though some instruction guides provide directions, should not be used for hip or forward-facing carries. (The exception to this rule is the Wrapsody Bali Stretchy Wrap which supposedly can be used for back carries, though I haven't tried it personally). For more information on why forward carries should be avoided, see the note at the end of this post. They are supposed to last up to 35 lbs, but most wearers become uncomfortable using a stretchy wrap once their child reaches around 15 lbs. Some of the most popular brands are the Moby Wrap, the Wrapsody Bali Wrap, and the Sleepy Wrap.

Moby Wrap in Black (Pocket Wrap Cross Carry)

Woven - These are the workhorse of the carrier world, in my opinion, and if I could only have one carrier, I'd choose a woven wrap, hands down! The variety of carries is seemingly endless with plenty of variations to suit all wearer's preferences. These can be used safely for front carries, back carries, and hip carries. While they are still cuddly for a newborn, they will last well into the toddler stage, with most wraps supporting up to around 40 lbs. They come in various lengths, materials, and styles. Most wearers can use a size 6 as their basic wrap, though larger wearers may want a size 7. Then, once you've become addicted, most wearers drop down two sizes for a mid-length wrap for carries that require less fabric. The only downside to woven wraps is that it does require a bit of a learning curve, even if you're graduating from a stretchy wrap since wovens are less forgiving of a sub-par wrap job. However, you're unlikely to find a more supportive and versatile carrier! Some of the most popular brands include Storchenwiege, Didymos, Neobulle, Girasol, and Vatanai, though BBSlen, Amazonas, and Dolcino are also great options.

Amazonas Classic Carry Sling 5.1m in Laguna (Double Hammock carry)

Sling:
Ring sling - When I first thought about babywearing, well before we were even married, I always figured I'd just get a ring sling, or even just make one. Yet somehow this was my most recent purchase! And now that I have it, I definitely get the ring sling love. Ring slings are essentially a long piece of fabric threaded through metal rings that can be used to adjust the size of the sling. As a result, sizing is less important, and the ring sling will grow with your child. They are very portable, easily being thrown into a diaper bag. Ring slings are also great for breastfeeding, especially in the cradle hold. Since I began using a ring sling with an older baby instead of a newborn, I have only used the hip hold, and I have found it very supportive and great for short trips. I've heard they are also great for toddlers who want to get up and down frequently. However, since all of the weight is supported on one shoulder, they have the potential to not be as comfortable as a two-shouldered carrier for long-term wearing. I chose to get a "slingified wrap," which is essentially a woven wrap cut down and made into a sling, and it is extremely supportive and wonderful! Some of the most popular brands include Sleeping Baby Productions, Sakura Bloom, and Comfy Joey.

Sleeping Baby Productions BBSlen Slingified Wrap Ring Sling in Passionfruit (hip carry)

Pouch - I have not actually tried out a pouch, but they share many similarities with ring slings with one important difference: they are not adjustable so sizing is extremely important for a comfortable carry. However, since there is no excess fabric, these are the most compact carriers out there. Some popular brands include Comfy Joey and Hotslings.

Soft-Structured Carriers:
When many people think of baby carriers, these are what come to mind. Popularized by brands such as the Baby Bjorn and Snuggli, soft-structured carriers (aka buckle carriers) are easy to use and are great options for older babies and toddlers. While many of them can be used by a younger baby and even a newborn, you lose some of the snuggly quality of the other carrier types. The soft-structured carrier is my go-to for out-and-about because it's easy to just grab it out of the car, snap it on, put Ethan in, and go. In fact, I store mine in the trunk of my car because I rarely use it at home or around the neighborhood. Most of the good soft-structured carriers (see the note at the beginning about why brands like the Bjorn and Snuggli are to be avoided) can be used for both front, hip, and back carries, allowing for some variety. However, there is not much room for variation in these basic carries so it's important to find a SSC that works for you and your baby. Some popular brands include ERGObaby, Beco, Boba, and Kinderpack.

ERGObaby Baby Carrier in Camel (back carry)

Mei Tai:
These Asian-style carriers combine the best of wraps and soft-structured carriers. Made up of a square piece of fabric with a strap at each of the four corners, these carriers allow a more customizable fit than a SSC without the "hassle" of wrapping. They are almost as soft and cuddly for a newborn as a wrap and are much more comfortable for the wearer to sit down in than a SSC. They can be used through the toddler years and are very supportive. Because they require less of a learning curve than a wrap, many wearers choose mei tais for back carries. In fact, if I'm looking for a quick back carry, I've gotten to the point that I pick up my mei tai before my woven, at least until I purchase my mid-length wrap. Many brands allow you to choose the fabric and strap colors, allowing for customized options, and there is some variety in whether the straps and/or waist is padded or if the carrier has a headrest or hood. You can even add on pockets and toy rings! These carriers are also a good option for a DIY version. Some popular brands include Babyhawk, Mei Tai Baby, and Ocah.

BabyHawk Mei Tai with Espresso straps and Orchid Fantasy Cream fabric showing (high back carry tied in front)

A word on forward-facing:
Some wraps include instructions for a forward-facing carry and some carriers advertise forward carries as a possibility (like the Beco Gemini and the Lillebaby Everywear), but most reputable babywearing manufacturers and advocates will tell you to avoid forward-facing carries at all times. Forward carries are not recommended for several reasons. First of all, it does not put the baby in as supportive a position as when facing inward. There is nothing supporting their spines since the spine is placed in an arched rather than rounded position, and it also puts additional stress on the wearer's back. Plus, it is really hard to achieve correct leg positioning in a forward carry, particularly in a wrap. Secondly, it does not allow your child any respite from her/his surroundings. Many parents choose the forward-facing carry because it allows the child to see what's going on. However, the child has nowhere to hide if the surroundings become overwhelming, nor can the child look to his/her parent to gauge emotion. Back carries are far preferable to this end because a child can still see all around, but if s/he needs to feel safe, s/he can just snuggle into dad/mom's shoulder and shut out the sensory overload. Furthermore, many children become accustomed to facing out and will then refuse to be carried facing inward, even though it's really better for them. Those just getting started babywearing can avoid this unnecessary stress and do what's best for their baby by wearing them facing inward from the start!


Any questions? What else would you like to know about babywearing? Let me know in the comments!