How to choose a baby carrier
It can seem impossible to keep your baby close while you work. A baby carrier doesn’t make it difficult to do both. The baby carrier does all the hard work and keeps your baby close to you so that your hands can do whatever work is required.
Are You a Mom?
It is a baby gear essential that many Babylist parents consider to be their best. Carriers offer many benefits, including:
- You get a break from all the baby-holding work.
- This allows you to do other things and your baby close at hand.
- Physical contact with your baby can increase oxytocin, the love hormone. This promotes bonding and can improve anxiety and postpartum depression.
- It is possible to skip the hassle of lugging your stroller around in the trunk or on public transport.
- It is easier to maneuver through crowds with a baby carrier rather than pushing a stroller.
- Research has shown that babies who are held for three hours per day cry less in general and 54% less at night.
Tips to Choose a Baby Carrier
It is hard to narrow down the choices when there are so many baby carriers. The following will help:
Longevity A carrier that can carry a heavier baby and is front-facing will be more durable. You only need it for infants? You might want one that encourages cuddling and a warm environment.
Comfort This is for both you and your child. Your baby should be able to move in the “M” position, which is hip-healthy for any carrier. Consider how much support you will need for your back and shoulders. You will be wearing your baby for long periods of time so make sure you have lumbar support and shoulder straps that are padded.
Fit: Some carriers are able to adapt to different caregivers while others must be perfectly sized for one person. If you intend to share the carrier with someone else, this is important.
Easy to use: Wrapping requires a number of steps, while ring rings and soft-structured carriers are much easier to apply. Before you buy a carrier, make sure to read the instructions. Wraps and slings are easily stuffed into a diaper bag, while soft-structured carriers can be bulky.
Climate: For warmer temperatures, lightweight fabrics and breathable mesh work best. While heavy knits and padding work well for colder weather, they are great for lighter fabrics.
Care: Babies can be messy (hello, spit-up or drool), but not all carriers can be machine washed. For washing instructions, check labels.
What are the Types of Baby Carriers?
There are three types of baby carriers available. You should remember that babies are different from older ones. An older baby may want to move around and explore the world, while a newborn will prefer to be close to you.
Many families choose to have two carriers. One for their newborn, such as a wrap, and one for their older children or toddlers. Others choose a single carrier that can be adjusted to suit different ages.
Wraps
Wraps are rectangular pieces of fabric that you wrap around your baby and yourself to make a carrier. What do wraps mean?
- This swaddle-like design is reminiscent of the feeling of the womb and newborns love it.
- Babys older than 6 months may not like the tight spaces.
- Many YouTube videos are required to learn how to properly fold fabric.
- Many come in one-size fits all and can be adjusted to fit different body types.
- Parents love certain wraps for their specific qualities.
- The Moby is light and perfect for summer.
- Boba is thicker which makes it ideal for wrapping babies in a tight wrap or holding them as they get heavier.
- The Solly Baby is super soft and available in a variety of colors and prints.
- Baby K’tan will do some of the wrapping for you. However, you must choose a size.
Structured Carriers
Although soft structured carriers are designed for older babies, some can be modified to fit newborns with extra padding or adjustments to the straps. These are the main points you need to know about soft structured carrier:
- Although they aren’t as snug as wraps, they are much easier to wear.
- When you have a heavier baby, a carrier with padded straps or waistbands will provide more support.
- You can use them from birth, without the need for an extra insert.
- Some carriers offer a forward-facing option to curious babies who wish to look out.
You can carry your baby for longer if you have a higher weight limit. Some carriers even allow you to transport your child into toddlerhood.
Note An average 5-year-old is 41 pounds. These carriers will likely keep you covered until your child can walk or take a stroll.
Remember: If you are looking for a soft-structured carrier that will allow you to kiss your baby’s top, make sure it is high enough. This position is considered the most secure. Make sure your carrier has an adjustable or wide seat. This helps to distribute baby’s weight, and it keeps their hips healthy as the baby grows.
Ring Slings
One piece of fabric is used to make slings. It’s worn across the body and loops through the two rings at your shoulders. This design makes it easy for your baby’s to use as a seat.
- Because they allow for airflow, they are great for hotter environments.
- They are easy to use.
- They don’t evenly distribute the weight. All the weight is on your shoulders.
- Because of the warp in the fabric, most slings can’t be machine washed.
You Need to Choose the Right Carrier Option. There are many options available, which is great because there is something for everyone. It can also be overwhelming. You may already have an idea of the type of carrier you want. You can start your search right there, and you can rest assured that every carrier provides exactly what your baby needs: being very close to you.
Related Articles:
https://www.babypower.us/baby-carriers-tips-and-tricks
https://www.babyuseful.com/top-tips-for-baby-wearing
https://www.babyenergise.com/baby-carriage
https://www.babyexciting.com/carriers-and-other-devices
https://www.enjoy-the-life-baby.com/baby-wrap-carrier-or-sling-safely
https://www.babyhappy.us/choose-a-baby-carrier
https://www.babyforlife.co.uk/baby-carriers-backpacks