Becoming a parent opens up a world of joy and challenges, and one tool that many find indispensable in navigating this journey is a baby carrier. Babywearing not only fosters a strong bond between you and your little one but also offers the practicality of hands-free mobility. With an array of baby carriers on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here's a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Understand Your Lifestyle
Before diving into the sea of baby carriers, take a moment to reflect on your lifestyle. Are you a mom of multiples and you need your hands free to get stuff done? Do you prefer the simplicity of a carrier for quick errands? Or do you often go hiking or spending time outdoors? Take a moment to think through when you will actually use the carrier and consider your daily routine. Carriers don’t come cheap so spending time to think this through will help you find the type of carrier that best suits your needs and justify the cost. #waismomma #bangforyourbuck
Different Types of Carriers
Hip Seat Carrier. The hip seat carrier offers a versatile design that combines a comfortable waistband with a detachable seat, allowing parents to carry their child on the hip. This style is excellent for toddlers who enjoy observing the world around them, and for parents of a toddler who has never tried babywearing yet. This is a less intimidating style that’ll let you wear your baby with ease.
Hybrid Wrap. A hybrid wrap is a blend of the traditional woven wrap and a stretchy wrap, providing a middle ground in terms of support and flexibility. Ideal for newborns and infants, the hybrid wrap offers the snugness of a stretchy wrap while allowing for more secure and supportive tying. It strikes a balance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced babywearers.
Ring Sling. Ring slings are a simple yet versatile option, consisting of a long piece of fabric with two rings for adjustability. They are perfect for quick ups and downs and are well-suited for breastfeeding on the go. Ring slings work well with newborns and infants, providing an intimate and adjustable carry that keeps the baby close to your chest.
Sling Carrier. Sling carriers are uncomplicated, one-shouldered carriers that are quick to put on and take off. Ideal for short trips and for parents who value simplicity, sling carriers are suitable for infants and toddlers alike. They offer a cozy and secure hold for little ones, keeping them snug against your body.
Soft Structured Carrier. The soft structured carrier (SSC) is a popular choice among parents for its ease of use and ergonomic design. Featuring padded shoulder straps and a structured waistband, SSCs offer excellent support for both parent and baby. This type of carrier is suitable for infants and toddlers, and many models come with adjustable settings to accommodate a growing child.
Woven Wraps. Woven wraps are long pieces of fabric that are incredibly versatile, allowing for a variety of carrying positions. They provide excellent support for all stages of a child's development, from newborn to toddler. While they may have a steeper learning curve, woven wraps are favored by experienced babywearers for their customizable and secure holds. They are a go-to choice for moms who enjoy the artistry of babywearing and appreciate the adaptability of different wrapping techniques.
Consider Your Baby's Age and Size
Newborns. Opt for carriers with proper neck and head support. Consider a hybrid wrap, ring sling, or woven wrap for the secure and cozy hold needed for newborn’s head, neck, and back.
Infants. Ring slings and woven wraps are still superstars during this stage, providing support for the baby's developing spine and neck muscles. But you can start considering soft structured carriers as soon as baby has good neck support, an indicator would be when baby starts sitting up unassisted.
Toddlers. Look for carriers with a higher weight limit and additional support for the baby's increased mobility. Opt for hip seat carriers, soft structured carriers, and woven wraps with longer lengths for added support as your child grows. Always consider your personal preferences in terms of wrapping styles and patterns, as well as the convenience of different carriers for your daily activities. After all, the best baby carrier is the one that you use. And with that…
Ease of Use
You’d want to get as much wear as you can, so consider how easy it is to put on and take off the carrier. The less limbic friction, the better. And if you anticipate frequent transitions, simplicity might be key. This isn’t necessary one that comes with buckles, as woven wraps can be grab-and-go, too. It just needs some muscle memory and has a learning curve.
Also, check if it can be adjusted to fit both you and your partner, especially if you plan to share the carrier - and this might be where a buckled carrier would come in handy as buckles are easier to adjust than moving a really long piece of fabric around.
Comfort for Both You and Baby
You may opt for carriers with padded shoulder straps and waistbands to distribute weight evenly. When relying on a tool to carry your precious cargo (i.e. your baby), baby’s comfort is paramount so ensure that the baby's legs are positioned in an ergonomic "M" shape, supporting healthy hip development.
Material and Durability
Check the material for breathability, especially being in the Philippines where the weather can get extra moody. Look for carriers made from durable, easy-to-clean fabrics.
Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations
Take advantage of online reviews. There are lots of tutorials and reviews online by babywearing brands and mom bloggers and influencers. Before your purchase, get a virtual ‘feel’ of how to maneuver your shortlist of carriers when you watch online tutorials.
Be part of Facebook groups such as this one and get honest feedback and recommendations from other parents. Pro tip: It’s also a great place to score great second-hand baby carriers!
Join local babywearing workshops or find babywearing consultants to get firsthand insights of different carrier brands. A great plus is if you find like-minded moms friends!
Try Before You Buy
If possible, visit our shop in Oakridge, where you can try on different carriers. We will be more than happy to assist you in answering some of your pressing babywearing questions, and hopefully help you find your dream carrier.
Choosing the right baby carrier involves a thoughtful consideration of your lifestyle, your baby's needs, and practical features that align with how you live. By keeping these factors in mind, you can confidently embark on your babywearing journey, creating precious moments of closeness and convenience for both you and your little one. Trust us - contact naps are one of our most delicious core memories!
Are you ready to find the baby carrier for you? Drop by the Baobao Babies store at Oakridge, A. S. Fortuna Street, Mandaue City, or send us a DM through Facebook or Instagram. If you already got one in mind and are ready to buy, shop 24/7 at www.baobaobabies.com!