Babywearing has been around for centuries but many parents are nervous to try it. It’s a great hands-free way to walk, cook (carefully), work, and tend to other children. I’ve tried all of these carriers below and like them for various reasons! Of course there are many more styles and brands of carriers but these are my favorites that I’ve personally tried. You can buy carriers secondhand or even borrow them from a lending library if you want to try them first!
Ring Slings
This style is my favorite for newborns up to about 4 months or so (although it can be used much longer–up to 35 lbs). It’s lightweight and easy to carry–I like to have one in the car and one around the house! They’re soft, easy to nurse in, and the size is adjustable. Threading the rings can have a learning curve but once you do it a few times you’ll be a pro.
1. Hope & Plum. This company does not disappoint! The patterns are adorable, two different fabric types (hemp or linen), the staff offers virtual fit checks, and THREE different lengths!
2. LoveHeld. Whether you choose the waffle weave or woven weave these slings and wraps are so soft. Available with different ring colors, multiple lengths, and they offer free fit checks! They’re all custom made just for you!
3. Wildbird. Wildbird is newer to me for carriers but I love the fabric choices (linen) and they come in two different lengths (standard and long) and two hardware choices.
Onbuhimo
I love onbuhimos for newborns (front worn) because of the high carry and then again when they’re older (sitting independently) because they love to see everything up high on my back! One of my favorite aspects of this carrier is that there is no waistband so it’s extra comfortable–especially during pregnancy!
4. Happy Baby. This is my go-to for newborns (7 lbs+) and you don’t need an insert! Lots of different colors, fabrics, and they are so soft! The downside is that they are often out of stock but there are usually lots for sale in your local market! They have regular onbuhimos as well as toddler sizes!
5. Toddler Lenny Lamb. One of favorite for 12 months+ because of the wider panel. Comfortable for me and my little one!
6. Sakura. I was definitely taken by surprise with this one because I didn’t think I’d like the leather but I was impressed with how comfortable I was for hours wearing my 20 month old while I volunteered. This carrier is designed for 15 lbs+. The downside is that this carrier is not considered machine washable so it’s a little harder to keep clean. It’s also not quite as easy to get on for me personally.
Traditional ‘Backpack’ Carrier
These are the carriers I prefer for hiking, naps, or longer wear (3 hours +). They’re designed for small babies up to 40+ lbs (typically). They are soft, fold up easily to fit into a diaper bag, wash easily, and allow for discreet nursing. This is how I get practically anything done in those early weeks of having babies. These carries can be worn in the front or back. Note: these two are ‘apron style’ carriers (as opposed to waterfall style).
7. Happy Baby Original Baby Carrier. This is my go-to choice for carriers. I have a variety of colors and fabrics to coordinate with and have one inside, in the car, in the strollers, and extras for wash day! This one can be used from 7 lbs with no insert which means it’s usually great from day one if you have an average sized baby! They’re soft when worn-in and so easy to use. You can also purchase a toddler carrier for kids in 2t and up and a preschool carrier for sizes 4t and up.
8. Hope and Plum Lark. This carrier was SO different for me but I am truly in love with it. It has two different sizes, wide cross backstraps, and a tall panel for longevity. It’s also designed for babies in 3-6 month clothing sizes but every baby is different so it’s best to get a fit check if you’re not sure. They also have a kid-carrier for 3t and up (25-65lbs). Get their flat bottom bag to store your carriers (almost any ring sling or soft structured carrier fits!) or any other essentials. I use them for diapers and extra clothes, make up, work essentials, etc .
Toy Carriers for Kids
If your older child loves pretend play, consider a matching or coordinating toy carrier! Perfect for stuffed animals, dolls, and maybe even large action figures. A great gift for a big sibling!
