Finding the perfect baby carrier: a guide to getting it right the first time

Choosing the right baby carrier can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack, especially with so many options out there. But don't worry, I'm here to help you navigate through it all. As a parent of two and a baby

product expert at babaloo, I've had my fair share of experiences with baby carriers. Let’s talk about the differences to help find the perfect one for you and your little one.

When I first became a parent, I quickly realised that not all babies are fans of prams or car seats. My little ones had their preferences, and they weren't shy about letting me know! That's when I discovered the magic of baby carriers. They not only keep your baby close but also free up your hands for other tasks. Plus, who doesn't love extra baby cuddles?

One thing to keep in mind is that baby carriers come with guidelines to ensure your baby's safety and comfort. It's essential to follow healthy hip positioning and safe sleep guidelines. While baby carriers can be tricky to put on at first, with a bit of practice, you'll become a pro in no time. And remember, I'm always here to guide you through it!

It is super important to check when purchasing a carrier, that it is going to last for as long as you hoped. Choosing a carrier with a weight capacity of only 10kg can mean your baby may outgrow this somewhere from 6-12 months. Whilst choosing something with a 15-20kg weight capacity will allow you to carry for longer. This may be needed when travelling or going through airports. It is handy to be able to place your toddler on your back to keep hands free.

A structured carrier is different to a wrap carrier. A wrap carrier like the ergobaby Aura Sustainably Sourced Knit Wrap is great if you have a smaller baby, it isn't completely hands free, you will need to support your baby's head as you move around but can be great for lounging around with a Velcro baby. Sometimes they can be tricky to put on but once on they are very comfortable for you and baby. The longevity of this carrier won't be long, and you will want a structured carrier for when you head out of the house.

A structured carrier has thick padded straps and a thicker waistband. they hold the structure of your baby's body and allow you to be hands free for most of your baby wearing time.

ergobaby: a trusted name in baby carriers

ergobaby offers a wide range of carriers designed to provide ergonomic support for both you and your baby. Their carriers feature wide waistbands and thick straps for back support, as well as adjustable parts to accommodate your growing baby. They offer various carrying positions, including parent-facing, world-facing (based on age and neck support), hip carry, and back carry for older children up to 20kg. These carriers are suitable for babies as small as 3.2kg, but it's best to wait until your baby has enough body structure to support themselves safely.

Within the ergobaby range, you'll find different types of carriers, such as the ergobaby Embrace with super soft materials and the ergobaby Aerloom with FormaKnit fabric. Each product caters to different needs, whether you plan to carry your baby for a few months or longer. My personal favorite is the ergobaby Omni Classic Mesh (formerly called Omni 360) Baby Carrier. I used it with both of my children and loved how easy it was to switch positions, its comfort, and the built-in sun protection. Plus, it's machine washable, which is a huge plus for any parent!

Childcare: a simple and effective option

Childcare makes a less expensive baby carrier option that can be used from 3.6kg to 9.1kg, perfect for the first year of wearing. It features a padded seat for your baby and padding for the parent, offering both parent-facing and world-facing positions. And yes, it's machine washable too!

tips for baby carrying

1. Stay calm and confident: Babies can sense your energy. If you're anxious or nervous, they might get fussy. Take a deep breath and stay calm while putting your baby in the carrier.
2. Try again later: If your baby seems uncomfortable or cries, give it some time and try again later. My son didn't enjoy the carrier for the first five weeks, but my daughter loved it from day one.
3. Look for machine washable options: Babies can be messy, so having a carrier that's easy to clean is a lifesaver.
4. Consider the material: If you tend to get hot, opt for a carrier with lightweight or mesh material to help keep both you and your baby cool.

Remember, we're here to help you choose, fit, and wear your baby carrier anytime. Feel free to reach out to us on our social sites or via WhatsApp for any assistance.

Happy babywearing!

Celine

babaloo’s Product Expert