Our writers test and research products independently. When you buy through a link on our site we may earn a commission but this never affects our product choices.
Best baby carriers: the safest slings and wraps for babies
Baby carriers let you 'wear' your baby close to you. They come in different types, from baby wraps and slings to soft-structured carriers with buckles and ties. After months of research and testing, we reveal the best baby carriers you can right now, as tried and tested by real parents.
By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Apr 16, 2024
Whether in front, back or hip positions, parents have been carrying their babies across cultures for centuries. These days, parents ‘wear’ babies for a variety of reasons including comfort, convenience, as a form of tummy time and to bond with their baby. Babywearing also allows parents to keep their little ones close by but their hands completely free - a multitasker’s dream.
Compact, portable and ideal for public transport, baby carriers make a great alternative to pushchairs and travel systems, particularly for newborns and younger babies.
Babywearing expert Dr Rosie Knowles from Carrying Matters knows only too well the benefits of babywearing, stating, ”There are positive effects to soft-touch, close, loving contact, and meaningful connections have long-term positive health outcomes. It also helps mothers to survive the fourth trimester as well as the months and years ahead. The closeness and loving touch, as well as the position adopted in a good sling, is what matters most. The type of sling or the fabric that you use is just personal preference.”
When it comes to babywearing, the choices are endless. Your perfect pick will depend on several factors such as the age and weight of your child, your lifestyle and, of course, how much you’re willing to spend.
The best baby carriers also ultimately come down to personal choice. While a friend might gush about how simple their stretchy wrap is, you might find the same product hot, uncomfortable and difficult to use. Some parents love the closeness of an inward-facing hold, while others may prefer a supportive baby carrier backpack for longer journeys and urban exploring in the great outdoors.
How we tested the best baby carriers
To bring you our list of the best baby carriers, we:
Tapped into the tried and tested experiences of Mumsnet users, seeking their feedback on the best baby carriers they’ve used with their babies and would happily recommend to friends and family. With 8 million parents visiting our forums every month, we’re home to plenty of up-to-date, honest and impartial reviews that you can trust.
Extensively researched online reviews on retailer sites, consulted the views of babywearing experts and sling libraries, and investigated the lab test results from consumer champion Which?, to ensure their feedback was consistent with the views of Mumsnet parents.
Enlisted a team of parent testers to really put the baby carriers through their paces.
Scroll on to find our pick of the best baby carriers you can buy right now. At the bottom of the page, you'll find a handy buying guide packed full of information about safety features to look out for as well as guidance on carrying positions from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
If you’re making a wishlist for your baby, we’ve also got guides to the best lightweight strollers, the best umbrella strollers and the best double buggies. Or if you're heading out on four wheels, you might want to consider our roundup of the best baby car seats, best 360 spin car seats and the best car sunshades for babies too.
Best baby carriers at a glance
Best overall baby carrier: Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier | Buy now
Best budget baby carrier: Izmi Essential Wrap | Buy now
Best baby carrier for breastfeeding: Boba X Baby Carrier | Buy now
Best baby carrier for newborns: Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier | Buy now
Best multi-position baby carrier: Joie Savvy Baby Carrier | Buy now
Best baby carrier sling: Boba Wrap | Buy now
Best baby carrier for toddlers: Phil & Teds Parade | Buy now
Best ergonomic baby carrier: BabyBjörn Harmony Baby Carrier 3D Mesh | Buy now
Most versatile baby carrier: Nuna Cudl | Buy now
Most supportive baby carrier: Tula Explore | Buy now
Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier
Grows with your child – extending upwards and outwards to ensure a good fit
Uncomplicated design that is easy to operate
Extremely supportive with comfortable lumbar support
Ergonomic front outward-facing carry
The long front panel gives your baby excellent coverage
Cool air-mesh material keeps both parent and baby cool on warmer days
Well padded design is harder to fold down for portability
The clip at the back can be tricky to secure without assistance
RRP: £145 | Suitable from: Birth to approx. three or four years old | Weight capacity: 3kg to 20kg | Carrying positions: Four (inward-facing, forward-facing, back and hip) | Material: Cotton | Machine-washable: Yes
Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Ergobaby All Position 360 review (previous model)
The Ergobaby Omni 360 is an ergonomic and versatile baby carrier and a great all-rounder - ideal for long periods of use. Suitable for babies from birth to 20kg, it offers a choice of four different wearing positions depending on the age of your child.
An upgrade from our parent-tested Ergobaby All Position 360, the Omni 360 is suitable from birth without requiring a newborn insert. The updated design also has improved lumbar support, providing additional comfort for parents across the base of their back. Made from cool mesh fabric, it allows good breathability and enhanced airflow, even on warmer days.
The Ergobaby Omni 360 offers a comfortable and secure hold, with Velcro straps that can easily be adjusted to adapt to your baby as they grow. Winner of an AGR healthy back award and declared hip healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, it ensures your baby’s legs stay in the healthy ‘M position’ at all times, with good hip alignment and a natural curve in their spine. It also follows the TICKS guidelines - ensuring a tight fit with your baby in full view, close enough to kiss, chin off their chest and with adequate support for their back.
For young babies, the integrated head support will help keep them safe and secure, even when sleeping, while the UPF privacy hood allows discreet breastfeeding and can protect them from the elements on warm or windy days.
From around five months (or when your baby can confidently hold their own head), you can switch the Ergobaby Omni 360 to the ergonomic forward-facing mode, folding down the support cushion so your baby can clearly take in their surroundings. Finally, from six months onwards, you may wish to carry your baby on your hip or use the Ergobaby as a back carrier for increased freedom during longer journeys.
Whilst it can be a little tricky to reach the strap at the back, getting your baby in and out of the Ergobaby is relatively straightforward. While some of the buckles require you to squeeze and lift simultaneously for safety reasons, the majority of the adjustments can be done quickly and easily, even one-handed. The instructions are also easy to follow, with detailed videos on the Ergobaby website.
With excellent weight distribution, the cushioned shoulder straps can be worn ‘rucksack style’ or crossed across the back, allowing a snug and secure fit even on more petite parents. With wide lumbar support and a chest strap for use in back carrying mode, the Ergobaby Omni 360 is also easy to adjust for multiple users. We love the inclusion of a detachable storage pouch, which ensures you always have easy access to your keys or phone without needing a separate bag.
On the flip side, it’s worth noting that unlike sling carriers such as the Izmi Essential Wrap or Boba Wrap, the Ergobaby Omni 360 doesn’t fold down flat, so it’s not the easiest to stash away into your changing bag or pushchair storage basket. Accessories such as the drool bib, teething pads, rain cover and winter weather cover are also all sold separately and considering the price of the carrier itself, we feel they’re a little on the costly side.
Read next: Newborn essentials: your complete new baby checklist
Izmi Essential Baby Wrap
Close, comforting hold
Two carrying positions
Lightweight and portable design
Soft stretchy fabric is comfortable against baby’s skin
Low maximum weight limit
Less supportive for older babies
Potential to fit incorrectly
RRP: £40 | Suitable from: Birth to approx. nine months | Weight capacity: 3.2kg to 9kg | Carrying positions: Two (front inward facing or front hip facing) | Material: 95% cotton and 5% elastane | Machine-washable: Yes
While the Izmi Essential Baby Wrap may look overwhelming at first, this long, soft and stretchy strip of fabric can quickly become a comforting carrier for your newborn, providing a safe and snug hold against your chest in a natural foetal position. Whether you’re petite or plus-sized, this one-size design is suitable for all sizes and body shapes, making the Izmi a practical choice for parents who want to share in the babywearing.
Suitable from birth until your baby is approximately nine months old, the Izmi is an ideal introduction to babywearing during the so-called fourth trimester. Being held in close proximity to your heartbeat is incredibly calming for your newborn, providing familiarity and reassurance to help them gently drift off to sleep. For parents, the close proximity to your baby can also provide a healthy dose of the oxytocin ‘feel good’ hormone, providing a welcome boost to your well-being and postnatal mental health.
Practice definitely makes perfect with this carrier and while the visual instructions are helpful, you may want to watch the online videos to ensure you’re getting the correct fit. As a five-metre-long piece of fabric, it’s also recommended you fit this wrap indoors to prevent it from touching the floor, before adjusting it to ensure the correct amount of tension and support across your shoulders and back.
Once secured, you can easily place your baby inside, gently manipulating the fit until their back is curved and their legs are hanging in the healthy ‘M’ position. The three layers of material provide a secure and firm hold against their back, however, you may need to increase the tension as your baby gets bigger.
Overall, the Izmi Essential Baby Wrap offers natural hands-free carrying and surprisingly good support when fitted correctly, but you may find yourself placing your palm on their back for additional peace of mind. With a practical carry pouch for travel, it’s easy to whip out as and when required, but you may want to switch to a more structured baby carrier for prolonged use.
Read next: The best lie-flat car seats for newborns
Dual pull shoulder straps
Structured padded waistband and wide straps distribute baby's weight well
Can be personalised to fit a wide range of body types
Breastfeeding-friendly
Thick material can make this carrier warm to use
Cannot be washed at high temperatures – spot cleaning and cold washing recommended
No outward-facing option
RRP: £125 | Suitable from: Birth to approx. three or four years| Weight capacity: 4kg to 20kg | Carrying positions: 3 (inward-facing, hip and back) | Material: Cotton | Machine-washable: Yes but not at high temperatures; spot cleaning recommended
Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Boba X review
The Boba X is an easy-to-use hybrid carrier, offering the support and reassurance of a structured carrier with the softness and comfort of a baby wrap. Offering excellent value for money and good longevity, it’s suitable to use from birth through to 20kg (around three to four years of age).
With a choice of front, hip and back carrying modes, the Boba X easily adapts to your baby’s size and needs, providing inward-facing reassurance and comfort for your newborn, as well as a high vantage point on your back so your toddler and preschooler can interact with the world around them. It’s also a convenient choice for breastfeeding, with the option to unclip and create some slack before moving your baby into an upright nursing position.
While fitting the back strap and clip can be a bit tricky (with some minor contortionist skills required) it’s relatively easy to adjust once secured into place, with dual pull shoulder straps and a sliding chest strap for additional support. Alternatively, If you’ve got someone around to help you, it’s far easier to have them clip it up from behind. The adjustable seat width and extension pieces for larger babies ensure that your child will always be well-aligned and seated in a healthy ‘M’ position as they grow.
Unlike the Ergobaby Omni 360, there’s no built-in lumbar support on the Boba X, so whilst the padded straps can be crossed for additional comfort, it may be better suited to short-term trips than all-day rural or urban adventures, particularly with heavier babies.
Our testers loved the built-in loops for toys, teethers or dummies and the integrated storage for stashing your keys and phone, but it’s not as easy to clean as some carriers - with spot-clean-only fabric that could become stained over time.
Read next: The best toddler car seats
Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier
Close hold that’s ideal for newborns
Super soft yet sturdy material
Good weight distribution
Weight limits mean your child will rapidly outgrow this carrier
Costly option for short-term use
Less adjustable than the Ergobaby Omni 360
RRP: £100 | Suitable from: Birth to 12 months | Weight capacity: 3.2kg to 11.3kg | Carrying positions: Three (newborn mode, inward-facing and front-facing) | Material: Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified knit fabric | Machine-washable: Yes
If you want the support of a structured baby carrier but are worried about the thicker cotton or mesh fabrics feeling warm or uncomfortable against your newborn’s delicate skin, the Ergobaby Embrace could be the perfect solution. Made from a soft jersey knit fabric in a small and compact design, it’s a convenient choice for taking on family adventures, keeping your hands free to care for older children or simply multi-task on your travels.
Providing the ideal combination of a structured carrier with the closeness of a baby wrap or sling, the Ergobaby Embrace is designed specifically for the fourth trimester but is suitable from birth until around 12 months of age. The gently padded straps on the Ergobaby Embrace can be crossed across the back to help distribute weight evenly across your shoulders, while the strap around the waist offers additional support and can be adjusted to suit various body sizes.
While it’s perhaps a costly choice for the relatively short period of use and less adjustable than the Ergobaby Omni 360, it’s far more portable, with the option to stash in a changing bag or pushchair basket when not in use.
Reviewers say it’s easy to get on and secure with easy-to-fasten clips, before moving your baby into the hip-healthy and ergonomic ‘M’ seating position. It’s also been certified as ‘back-friendly’ by experts at the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs), allowing newborns to stay close and well supported, with a reassuring snug hold against your chest so that they can hear your heartbeat.
Read next: The best breast pumps, tried and tested
Easy-to-use magnetic fastenings
Good weight distribution
Adjusts to your baby as they grow
You may find straps dig in slightly after prolonged use
Sturdy material could be softer against the wearer’s skin
RRP: £105 | Suitable from: Birth to approx. three years| Weight capacity: 3.5kg to 16kg | Carrying positions: Four (newborn inward-facing, inward-facing, forward-facing and back carry) | Material: Mercerised cotton | Machine-washable: Yes
With the choice of a stylish blue marina or a black and white monochrome design, the Joie Savvy is a popular multi-position baby carrier suitable from birth until approximately three years of age. Offering complete flexibility to suit your lifestyle, it has a choice of four different carrying positions that you can switch between depending on your baby’s age and size.
As a newborn, your baby can be positioned inward facing, sitting in a curved foetal position on your chest, with an optional head support that can be raised to protect their neck should they nod off during your travels.
Certified ‘hip healthy’ by The International Hip Dysplasia Institute, the wide and supportive ergonomic seating position can be lowered as your baby grows, ensuring your baby’s spine maintains a natural curve and good hip alignment, with your baby’s legs in a healthy ‘M’ position.
By around six months of age, your curious baby will love switching to forward-facing, allowing them to interact, engage and gain full visibility of their surroundings. From nine months and above, you can also switch to back carry mode, providing extra stability for longer walks and hikes.
With padded shoulder straps and a waist strap that offers good lumbar support for parents, this carrier can also be put on quickly and easily without assistance. Although some of the straps may require some wriggling to reach, the Joie Savvy has impressive magnetic clips which are far easier to operate than traditional clips or buckles as seen on the likes of the Ergobaby Omni 360.
Although some parents may prefer the super soft fabric of a wrap or sling, we love the lightweight and breathable fabric of the Joie Savvy, which ensures good airflow when the temperatures rise. The built-in sunshade is also a real blessing on hot summer days, protecting your baby’s head from those harmful UV rays.
Read next: The best baby bouncers for newborns
Four-way stretch with a custom fit every time you wrap
Breastfeeding-friendly
Soft option for newborns
Cool to wear on warmer days
Can be tricky to tie (especially if you're new to babywearing)
Has no special features, such as pockets
Limited to two front-carrying positions
You'll likely need to buy a second carrier after six months
RRP: £38 | Suitable from: Birth to approx. age three | Weight capacity: 3kg to 15kg | Carrying positions: Two (newborn inward-facing and inward-facing with legs out) | Material: 95% cotton; 5% Spandex | Machine-washable: Yes
Tested by Mumsnet: Read the full Boba Wrap review
The Boba Wrap is the best baby wrap for your little one's earliest months. Unlike the structured Boba X microcarrier, which is suitable for both babies and toddlers, the Boba Wrap is a stretchy fabric that is wrapped around the body, creating a carrier with a close and comfortable hold for younger babies.
Suitable for all parent shapes and body sizes, this one-size fits all, four-way stretch fabric allows you to create a truly customised fit. Whilst slightly more expensive than the Izmi Essential Baby Wrap, it’s made from luxurious French terry cotton and provides a secure hold with less bouncing for a comfortable carrying experience.
While the Boba Wrap may be limited in terms of longevity, the lower price tag makes it an attractive option for parents with newborns. The stretchy fabric keeps your baby close and calm, while the built-in headrest can gently support the back of their head if they tend to fall asleep in the fresh air. Breastfeeding-friendly in an upright position, it also allows discreet nursing on the move - ideal if you’re also looking after an older child who wants to head to the local park or play area.
With no structured parts, fitting the Boba Wrap is certainly a learning curve, with many parents opting to watch the videos to ensure they’re securing it correctly. You may also want to seek support from your local sling library or babywearing expert first, who can ensure you’re confident with the tension and level of support provided. If you’re on the petite side, you may find excess fabric hangs down at the waist, but if worn correctly, the Boba wrap meets the TICKS guidelines for healthy babywearing.
The Boba Wrap is suitable for up to 15kg, however, due to its inward-facing-only design, you may wish to switch to a more structured carrier such as the Ergobaby Omni 360 once your baby outgrows the newborn stage.
Read next: Best baby car seat as tested by parents
Folds flat and is compact for easy travel
Hand luggage-compliant
Wide variety of storage options
Easy to assemble
Not suitable from birth
Back carry only
No sunshade or rain cover included
RRP: £99 | Suitable from: Six months to approx. three years | Weight capacity: 7.5kg to 18kg | Carrying positions: One (back carrier) | Material: 100% polyester | Machine-washable: No - spot-clean only
Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Phil & Teds Parade review
As your baby grows, switching to a back carrier can be a great way to maintain your freedom, travel hands-free and achieve good weight distribution when carrying a heavier child. Unlike front-facing carriers, baby backpack carriers are well suited to longer carrying durations, making a great alternative to a pushchair or stroller in crowded city streets and rural off-road surroundings.
With excellent Mumsnet reviews and recently rated Mumsnet’s top pick for the best baby carrier backpack, the Phil & Teds Parade is a popular choice with parents thanks to its compact, lightweight design. It weighs just 2kg and folds down flat for simple storage. Unlike some of the more bulky hiking carriers like the Osprey Poco Plus and Thule Sapling, it comes with a relatively affordable price tag too.
Suitable for babies aged six months and above, the Phil & Teds Parade has a robust internal aluminium frame that allows a secure and comfortable back hold. With a safe and secure four-point safety harness and ergonomic seat design, your baby will be content and comfortable as they experience the world from your eye level.
With adjustable harness height, padded shoulders and a secure, comfortable hip belt, this carrier can be adjusted to suit parent preferences, with a ventilated back panel to ensure you don’t overheat even on warmer days.
We love the handy support anchor which provides a sturdy base, allowing you to pop the carrier down on the floor during comfort breaks without toppling. There’s a wide range of storage too, with the 12.5-litre internal capacity offering plenty of space for drinks and snacks. The smaller detachable backpack is sure to appeal to toddlers, with plenty of room to stash the pinecones they pick up during their travels.
It’s worth noting that there’s no in-built weather protection on the Parade, so for warmer days you may also want to purchase the Phil & Teds sunshade, which is sold as an optional extra. If you’re planning to take your baby on lots of outdoor adventures, particularly during the summer months, you may need to factor this into the overall price.
Related: The best travel cots, as recommended by Mumsnetters
BabyBjörn Harmony Baby Carrier 3D Mesh
Stylish design
Easy to adjust and secure
Breastfeeding-friendly
Luxurious and breathable mesh fabric
Costly
Written fitting instructions could be better
RRP: £209 | Suitable from: Birth to approx. three years | Weight capacity: 3.2kg to 15kg | Carrying positions: Four (newborn carry, front-facing inwards, front-facing outwards and back carry) | Material: 100% polyester | Machine-washable: Yes
If ensuring an ergonomic seating position for your baby is your top priority, the latest BabyBjörn Harmony 3D Mesh is a great pick - with a luxurious and stylish mesh design that is super soft, breathable and offers a comfortable ergonomic hold for your baby.
Declared ‘hip healthy’ by The International Hip Dysplasia Institute, you can confidently position your baby subject to TICKS guidelines, sitting high enough to kiss your baby’s head when placed in the newborn carrying mode.
While some of the older BabyBjörn models have been criticised for their less angled seating position, the BabyBjörn Harmony 3D Mesh performed well in Which? lab tests, claiming the consumer champion’s coveted Best Buy status. This newer design offers structured back support and a wide seat that can be locked into place with zips, keeping the hips well aligned once you’ve found the right position and creating a natural ‘C’ curve in your baby’s spine.
Suitable for babies from birth until two to three years (or 15kg), it has three unique carrying positions - newborn inward facing (with no insert required), front-facing from five months or a back carrier for babies one year and above. You can even reduce the size of the leg holes for smaller babies to ensure a safe and secure fit.
Fitting and adjusting this carrier is relatively straightforward, with four intuitive clips that are easy to secure. That said, reaching the back strap requires some flexibility and, in back carrying mode, you’ll need to place your child in the front before rotating into place.
Overall, while it doesn’t come cheap, this comfortable ergonomic carrier may be the only one you ever need to buy, making it a practical alternative to a buggy.
Read next: Best toddler reins to keep your little ones close
Range of included accessories
Variety of carrying positions
Soft and well padded
Machine-washable
Quite a bulky design - especially if you’re used to a baby wrap or sling
Unlikely you’ll use this till maximum age due to the size of the carrier itself
RRP: £160 | Suitable from: Birth to approximately three years | Weight capacity: 3kg to 16kg | Carrying positions: Four (newborn mode, front inward-facing, front outward-facing and back carrying) | Material: Organic cotton jersey knit and mesh fabric | Machine-washable: Yes
Suitable from birth to 16kg (around three years old), the Nuna Cudl may look very similar in appearance to the Joie Savvy, but this versatile carrier has thicker and sturdier fabrics that can provide additional peace of mind when carrying older babies and toddlers. Mumsnet users praise the Nuna Cudl as a more robust alternative to a sling or wrap, allowing hands-free carrying as you go about your day.
Available in a choice of eight different colours, you can choose a shade that best compliments your style. It comes with lots of accessories too, including two attachable organic cotton bibs (great for dribbly babies), two harness covers, a sunshade for warm weather protection and a removable head support, helping to support your baby’s neck if they drift off whilst on the move.
With a choice of four carrying positions, the Nuna Cudl can adapt to your needs as your baby grows - whether that’s the comfort and reassurance of an inward-facing front carry for your newborn or the raised height of a rucksack-style back carrier for your preschooler.
The Nuna Cudl comes with magnetic buckles that make securing relatively quick and straightforward. That said, adjusting some of the straps requires some effort, particularly under the arms. It’s also worth noting that the tension of the back support will increase as you raise the height of the straps, which can make it feel tight across your torso. As such, you may need some practice to create the perfect fit.
Despite some of these challenges, the Nuna Cudl is an ergonomic choice, confirmed as 'hip healthy' by the Hip Dysplasia Institute and creating a frog-legged sitting position with good hip and spine alignment. With well-padded shoulder straps that won’t rub or dig in and a wide secure waist belt that ensures good weight distribution, the Nuna Cudl provides a comfortable carrying experience for parents, even over a longer duration.
Read next: The best running buggies for active parents
High-quality fabrics
Excellent padding on straps
Easy to adjust once on your shoulders
Range of patterns and designs to choose from
Costly
Difficult to put on and take off without assistance
No lumbar support
Maybe less comfortable for larger parents
RRP: £150 | Suitable from: Birth to age three or four | Weight capacity: 3.2 to 20.4kg | Carrying positions: Three (front inward facing, front outward facing and back carry) | Material: 100% cotton | Machine-washable: Yes
If you’re looking for a supportive baby carrier that can be shared between parents, the Tula Explore is a good solution, with a generously sized waistband that can easily be adjusted to accommodate both petite and plus-sized parents.
A popular choice with sling libraries and babywearing experts, the stylish Tula Explore Baby Carrier is also a great choice for those who like to stand out from the crowd. Unlike the more traditional muted greys, blacks and blues, Tula Explore comes with a choice of bold and patterned prints including florals, leopard skin and polka dot.
Suitable from birth (3.2kg) up to 20.4kg (around three or four years old), the Tula Explore has three carrying positions: front inward-facing (used for newborns), front outward-facing and back carrying.
Certified by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, it ensures a natural, ergonomic position for your baby with healthy hip and spine alignment. It also adjusts to your child as they grow, with different seat settings, padded leg openings and an adjustable neck pillow that can offer extra height support as and when required.
Tula Explore is made from 100% thick cotton that is super soft against your baby’s skin and breathable with excellent airflow - a real plus for active parents. With a well-padded waistband and cushioned straps, it offers excellent weight distribution, allowing you to wear it for longer without experiencing any aches or discomfort.
Like most carriers, perfecting the installation of the buckles and back connector on the Tula Explore becomes much easier over time, with the clips and adjustment settings that can be a little overwhelming at first.
Despite having a higher price tag than the Ergobaby Omni 360, the Tula Explore doesn’t come with a hip carry option. But for many, the super soft fabric and varied design choices make it worth the additional cost.
What are the different types of baby carriers?
Stretchy wraps
These long stretchy fabric carriers wrap around the body to securely hold your baby in place. Best suited for babies from newborn till around nine months of age, stretchy wraps are most beneficial for young babies, who will love the familiar closeness of a foetal position hold. Whilst many stretchy wraps can accommodate older babies, parents may find them less supportive due to their lightweight nature, preferring to switch to a more structured and robust baby carrier as their baby grows.
Woven wraps
These are similar to stretchy wraps but are capable of more prolonged use, with the option to support babies and toddlers until around three or four years of age. Whilst they can carry babies right through to preschool, parents are likely to feel the strain a little once their child gets close to the maximum load.
Ring slings
These tend to be the most affordable choice of baby carrier, but are better suited to short-term or occasional use. Ring slings include a long length of fabric that is worn across one shoulder and threads through two rings to create a loop. They are quick and easy to get on and convenient for quick and easy discreet breastfeeding, but due to weight distribution, they can become uncomfortable with larger babies or toddlers.
Soft-structured carriers
Soft-structured baby carriers (or structured carriers with buckles) offer excellent longevity and tend to have the most choice of carrying positions. The majority can be used from birth, although some may require the use of a newborn insert to raise the height with smaller babies.
Some structured carriers can offer a more robust and supportive hold for older babies and toddlers, and tend to be easy to adjust - ideal if you want to share babywearing between parents. The downside to soft structured carriers is that they tend to be more expensive than slings and wraps and breastfeeding while wearing can be tricky if you’re not used to an upright nursing position.
Framed/carrier backpacks
With a more robust ‘rucksack’ style design, these framed carriers are recommended for babies six months and above (or older depending on the brand). Most can be used until your child is approximately four years old.
Offering excellent weight distribution across the back and shoulders, they are well suited to parents wishing to walk, hike or explore the great outdoors with their babies in tow, providing a high vantage point for babies to enjoy their surroundings.
While many baby back carriers are an investment and can be bulky and cumbersome, smaller hybrid back carriers such as the featured Phil & Teds Parade are available too.
What should I look for when buying the best baby carrier?
Figuring out the best baby carrier to buy can be daunting, especially if more than one adult will be using it. There are a number of things to keep in mind when deciding between products.
Age range and weight: Is it suitable for your baby’s age and size? Each carrier, sling or wrap varies greatly when it comes to age and capacity. Most baby carriers are suitable from birth, subject to minimum weights - so you should check the full specification, especially if your baby is small or premature. Slings are typically more snug and comfortable for younger and smaller babies, while carriers with a back carrying option can accommodate the additional weight of a toddler or preschooler.
How often you'll use it: Are you looking for a carrier to wear around the home when carrying out chores, or to wear your baby during day trips, shopping in town or family holidays? How often you use it, who will be using it and how long you will be wearing it for will all determine which style and design of baby carrier is best for you.
Ease of use: How easy is the baby carrier to use? For those that are new to babywearing, a soft-structured carrier can be an easier option, with intuitive clips or buckles that can be adjusted for a safe and secure hold. Sling and wrap-style carriers may require more practice to get the right fit, but once your confidence grows, you can quickly create a safe and snug hold for your newborn. Consider whether video demonstrations are available and whether the carrier can be put on and taken off without assistance, particularly if you’ll regularly be heading out alone.
Ease of cleaning: Can the baby carrier be machine-washed? Is the design likely to get dirty or show up marks? Is there a risk of it trailing on the ground when being put on or taken off? Many baby carriers are machine-washable (on cool or gentle cycles) while others are spot-clean only. Removable dribble bibs can help reduce the impact of the most obvious source of stains.
Aesthetics: Does the baby carrier design suit your style? Are the fabrics breathable and what range of colours and patterns are available? Do you want a baby carrier that has a minimalist or becomes a feature in its own right? Some carriers come in muted traditional shades, whereas others have more variety in terms of colours, patterns and prints.
Shared use: If you’re likely to be sharing babywearing responsibilities with a partner or family member, consider how easily they can be adjusted to the wearer. Wraps and slings are often one-size-fits-all, whereas the soft-structured carriers usually are adjustable at the waist and shoulders to fit petite and plus-sized parents. If you’re particularly tall or small framed, consider the overall bulk and weight of the carrier itself, as some bulky designs can feel overbearing.
Cost: How much does the baby carrier cost and what do you get for your money? Does it include any accessories or other features such as storage? You should consider whether the enhanced performance, including longevity, justifies a higher price tag or whether you prefer spending less for occasional or short-term use.
What are the key features to consider when choosing the best baby carrier?
When choosing the best baby carrier, look for features such as:
Adjustable padded straps
Breathable and machine-washable fabric
Multiple carrying positions
Ergonomic design for both you and your baby's comfort
How do I wear a baby carrier correctly?
Research tells us that the most important consideration in carrying babies in carriers, slings and wraps is the position of the legs, spine and head, especially when used with a newborn.
It’s vital that you know how to carry your baby comfortably and safely – always opt for the most sturdy, durable and adjustable model. If you’re planning to use the carrier with more than one adult, look for models that offer adjustability, allowing you to change the settings to suit the wearer’s size and height.
'M' position
To be a safe and ergonomic choice, the carrier must allow babies to assume a ‘frog leg’ or 'M' sitting position (straddled around your body) when being carried upright, with a natural curve to the spine. This is paramount to avoiding hip dysplasia and ensuring proper back support. The crotch piece on carriers should be wide enough so that the baby’s legs are at a 90-degree angle.
Head support and temperature
The headrest will need to support your baby’s head on all three sides to stop it from falling backwards or sideways, especially if your child is a newborn or too young to support their own head. You will also need to monitor the baby’s temperature when carrying them to make sure they don’t overheat. Remember, most baby carriers count as a layer and adding more layers on top is safer than overdressing your child.
When it comes to material, make sure you choose a product with non-toxic dyes (babies like to chew!) and breathable fabrics that won’t encourage any sort of rash on the skin.
TICKS
The TICKS rule has been developed as a memorable checklist for safe babywearing:
Tight – your baby should be fully secure in the carrier
In view – their face should be visible
Close enough to kiss – keep your baby high enough on your chest to be able to kiss the top of their head so that you can monitor their breathing and keep them upright
Keep chin off the chest – so that the airways are clear and open
Supported back – with a natural curve
Baby carrier safety for the wearer
When it comes to comfort for yourself, broad straps over each shoulder will offer shoulder and back support as they will help to evenly distribute the weight of your baby.
Carrying your child on your back, especially if they are older, may also be more comfortable if you are out and about for long periods.
If you do have back problems or your baby has hip, head or spine concerns, you should consult your doctor before using a carrier, as you may wish to opt for a buggy or travel system instead.
Above all, try different baby carriers to see which one ticks all the safety boxes, get to know your carrier before you use it and practise different carrying positions with someone else if you’re lacking confidence.
Be sure to read the instructions and safety information supplied with your purchase. You could even practise with a teddy bear in front of a mirror before attempting with your baby.
It is always advisable to check the latest safety research and positioning recommendations before purchasing. You can find out what’s safe for your child at the International Hip Dysplasia Institute website and Carrying Matters.
Sling libraries and babywearing consultants
If you are new to baby carriers, it’s definitely worth heading to your local sling library to try a variety of slings, wraps and carriers. Most libraries allow you to borrow them for a week or two, so you can really get to know what you prefer.
Libraries are run by volunteers who are passionate about helping you carry your baby comfortably and safely whether with a new carrier or one you already own. You can also use Sling Pages to find your local library or a babywearing consultant. Some consultants make home visits for a fee.
Useful baby carrier resources
About the author
Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child and lifestyle product reviews and round-ups. Highly experienced with baby carriers, she used a baby carrier with both her daughters as both newborns and toddlers, including a soft-structured carrier and back carrier.
Having written product reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of baby products, scrutinising reviews and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.
Originally from a HR background with a degree in Business Studies, Lucy developed a real passion for blogging and writing when her children were young, going on to write for several online publications including US parenting site Pregistry and the Evening Standard. When she’s not manically tapping the keys of her laptop, Lucy loves nothing more than to cosy up with her Kindle and enjoy the latest thriller, or compete in Nintendo Switch rallies with her daughters aged six and 10.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.
Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.