Finding the best baby carrier can be a godsend for busy parents, allowing you to keep your little one snug and close while you use your hands for other things. They also give you the freedom to go to places that a buggy can't.
Baby carriers are usually age-specific – some are suitable for newborns, while others are only for toddlers – so before buying one, make sure that your baby fits the age range required to make sure they're safe. Certain baby slings, for example, aren't suitable for older babies but are perfect for those early days when you're trying to get things done around the house and want your hands free.
Editor's choice:
• Best overall: Nuna CUDL, £160
• Best for hiking: Cross Country S4 Child Carrier, £199.99
• Best for softness: FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap, £58
• Best for under £30: Mothercare Two Position Baby Carrier - Sport, £26
• Best for adjustability: Bebear Baby Carrier, £39.99
Most parents claim that baby carriers are their favourite baby products. When choosing a baby carrier, there are a few things to consider to find the right one. While some parents prefer traditional baby carriers, others prefer slings, so the best one for you and your baby really depends on your personal preferences or needs. If you're an outdoorsy family and enjoy doing lots of walks, you may prefer a baby carrier backpack as these have a belt that goes around your waist to spread your baby's weight onto your hips, easing the burden on your back.
How to choose the best baby carrier for you
Age suitability
When are you planning to use your baby carrier, and how long for? Ideally, the baby carrier should be suitable from birth so you get the most use out of it and can safely use your baby carrier with your newborn. Maybe you're looking for something short-term for their first 12 months - whereas a long-term investment will see them through until they're 3 years old.
Weight range
Generally, baby carriers will take up to 15kg of weight, but there are even some that will take up to 20kg. A better choice, in the long run, is to invest in a carrier that has the potential to carry the most weight. This way, it'll grow with your baby, and it's unlikely you will have to size up.
Size and fit
Anything too tight to the point it's restrictive or anything too loose where it's slipping off your shoulders poses as a risk to baby. Ensuring you have a perfectly fitted carrier that's also the right size for your baby is of utmost importance.
Budget
Account for your budget - baby carriers can be anywhere from £20 to £300, and it all depends on how much you're willing to spend. Of course, the more expensive options may come with extra features and more durability than a cheaper options. But a cheaper option is good if you aren't planning to use it for a long period.
Material
Is the material in question easily wipeable or machine washable? Does the material have the potential to irritate you or your baby? Is it a sturdy and durable material that will last? It might be best to choose a material that's breathable like cotton, polyester or bamboo.
Fasten type
There are a number of ways to fasten a baby carrier - whether it's buckles, shoulder straps, waistbands or wraps. This is all down to personal preference and what you find most comfortable and supportive for your frame.
Carrying positions
Most baby carriers will have two different carrying options - inward facing for newborns to 3-month-olds to outward facing for 4-month-olds and above. Some carriers even have four carrying positions, such as back and hip carrying options for when they reach 6 months old.
Extra features
Some baby carries will come with added extras, like pockets for keeping your essentials or a hood for keeping your little one dry in the rain.
How we chose and tested the best baby carriers
With several mums on the team, Mother&Baby is best placed to find the best baby carriers as most of these have been used and tested in real life by our own babies. Plus, we have a huge panel of real mums who test products every year for the annual Mother&Baby Awards, meaning we get to find out the best award-winning products that have been put through their paces thoroughly and independently by our readers.
The Mother&Baby Awards parent testers are provided with some guidelines while testing, so that they take into consideration four key areas: usability, design, quality and value for money. We ask them to score each of these out of 10, as well as give their overall impression of the product.
Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account in our testing process.
We have also spoken to mums on our Facebook group Mumtribe, as well as researched the best brands with high-rated products and top reviews from customers.
For the essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested, and you can find full reviews from our mum testers provided on the product page. Thousands of our mum and dad testers have been putting these carriers and slings through their paces all year round and reporting back to help us coordinate this list of the best carriers out there. The winners and runners-up for each category then will appear in our top picks.
How to use a baby carrier safely
When it comes to baby carriers, there are a few safety tips you need to keep in mind before using one with your baby so we spoke to expert Rosie Dodds, NCT's senior policy adviser, to ask her all about safety when it comes to keeping your baby secure in a baby carrier.
Don't use loose fabrics
While you might think that loose fabric on a sling would be comfortable for your baby, it can "allow your baby to slump down, which can hinder his breathing," says Rosie. Instead, make sure you can always see your baby's face when you glance down. Check that the sling is tight enough to hug them close.
Check the weight guidelines
Double-check the weight guidelines on each sling you consider buying, as it's not a case of one-size-fits-all. Then adjust it every time you wear it, especially if other people are wearing the sling too.
Don't zip up your coat over your baby
Even when it's cold out, refrain from zipping up your coat to cover your baby, as it can put them at risk of suffocating. Providing they're wearing enough clothing, they'll be cosy enough – and your own body heat will keep them warm. Alternatively, you may want to consider a baby wearing coat for the winter.
Wear your baby high up
The higher up on the body your baby is, the easier the sling will be on your back. Similarly, the closer they are to your face, the better you can monitor their behaviour and wellbeing.
Don't forget their head
A newborn baby's head always needs support. Whether you're carrying them or wearing your baby in a sling, make sure to support the head and keep an eye on it. Don't let your baby slump. While babies will naturally gravitate towards a slight C shape in a sling, try and keep their spine as straight as possible. "Carrying them upright with their hips and legs in the 'M' position is likely to be safest. It is most suitable for their developing hips and spine," Rosie from NCT explains.
Make sure baby is wearing the right kind of clothes
Could your baby be too hot? Think about the sort of clothes your baby is wearing as the weather gets warmer. You wouldn't like being stuffed up and swaddled inside excess fabrics either. If you're hot, chances are your baby is too. If it's one of those days when it's a bit warmer but raining, a baby carrier cover may be more suitable.
Don't let your baby's legs dangle
Your baby could be at risk of developing hip dysplasia if their legs dangle. Instead, they should be in a frog stance where their bottom and hamstrings are supported by the sling. Also, look out for products that are endorsed by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute .
Find the right one for you
If your baby is resisting the one you've bought, it might just mean that you'll need to try a different type. Thankfully there are plenty of options.
Find the correct position
Safety experts recommend that the baby is facing the parents in a carrier from newborn to six months. When your baby can hold their head up, they can then be moved to the forward-facing position. This position is great for development. This allows babies to explore the world and be stimulated by their surroundings.
Don't keep a newborn in a carrier too long
You may be wondering how long you should carry your baby in their baby carrier, and just as you wouldn't like to be stuck in the same position for hours, newborns should have their positions changed often. Regularly check that your baby's hips, head, neck, and back are well-supported. Plus, you should keep an eye on that their arms and legs can move freely.
Avoid bag style slings
Bag slings are unsafe for small babies as they can put your baby in a dangerous position (chin-to-chest) and could risk asphyxiation with fabric covering their face. Make sure to choose alternatives like those on this list.
Types of baby carriers
There are three main types of baby carriers that parents swear by:
Traditional baby carriers: A "traditional" baby carrier will have a structured waist and padded shoulder straps. You can often fasten these with buckles or straps. It can conveniently convert into multiple seating positions (front, back, and hip).
Sling baby carriers: As opposed to a traditional, structured carrier, sling carriers are wraps made with super-long pieces of fabric which keep you and the baby closer when baby wearing. They are lighter than regular carriers and have a more natural philosophy, look and feel. A lot of parents swear by their sling carriers, and you can read our guide to the best baby slings.
Backpack baby carriers: These are an upgrade of the traditional baby carrier, suitable for babies six months and onwards. They're structured like a hiker's backpack. Offering great back support so you can take your child on big adventures on your back. If you like travelling and hiking, or if your day consists of a lot of walking, a backpack baby carrier can prove extremely helpful. Read our guide to the best baby carrier backpacks.
The best baby carriers for 2024
With all this in mind, we've narrowed down our shortlist of the best baby carriers available in the UK. All of these options have been reviewed by our mum and dad testers - including traditional, backpack, and sling to help you find the right one for you.
1.
Nuna CUDL
Best overall baby carrier
www.johnlewis.com
Description
Winner of the Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier in the 2023 Mother&Baby Awards, this carrier offers ease and security for parent and baby, allowing you to keep your little one close while keeping your hands free.
Suitable for babies aged 0-3 years, the Nuna CUDL is designed to grow with your child, featuring an integrated infant booster for newborns that easily adjusts as your baby grows. Whether you prefer baby facing in for those intimate snuggles or facing out to explore the world, or even backpack mode for long walks outside, the CUDL has you covered. Parents also love the range of stylish colours it comes in, with something to suit everyone.
We know comfort is key when it comes to baby carriers, and the CUDL ensures maximum comfort with its padded shoulder straps and waistband, made using breathable fabric for warmer months. The magnetic buckles make taking your little one in and out of their carrier a breeze, while the zip-open storage pocket on the waistband provides convenient storage for your essentials. Our mum tester Evie found taking her sleeping baby out very easy; “It’s very easy to put on and fit and we love that you can easily undo the buckles quietly to transfer a sleeping baby out of the sling," she said.
It also comes with a sun hood for brighter days and organic cotton bibs, making it a must-have for on-the-go families who just need everything in one. Our parent tester particularly loved this feature, "The bib attachment to the front of the CUDL is great for forward facing especially as little ones like to suck on the front of the sling. We love how easy it is to then remove the bib and wash it without needing to wash the entire thing."
Gold - Best baby carrier at the Mother&Baby Awards 2023. Read our full Nuna CUDL review
Pros
- Easy to put on
- Handy extras including a bag for storage and waistband pocket
- Great quality
- Comfortable and secure
Cons
- Some would have preferred a buckled waistband to the velcro as the noise can be an issue for sensory-sensitive or sleeping babies
Best baby carrier for design
Description
Designed with outdoor adventures in mind, the LittleLife Freedom S4 Child Carrier is a premium choice for active families looking for a baby carrier solution for long walks and hikes with your little one.
As you’ll know, things can get pretty sweaty on long walks with your baby which is why it features an airflow back system to keep you and baby both cool and comfortable during those lengthy walks. It comes with plenty of storage space, allowing you to pack all the essentials for your journey, while features like foot stirrups, a viewing mirror, and the patented x-buckle harness system ensure safety and convenience on the go.
Made for children aged 6 months to 3 years, its fully adjustable design accommodates parents of all heights, while the soft face pad, neck support, and anatomically shaped seating area provide maximum comfort for your child.
While some testers would have liked it to fold down to a more compact size, its freestanding design and easy wipeable material make it perfect for outdoor adventures come rain or shine.
The LittleLife Freedom S4 Child Carrier was awarded Gold for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024. Read our full LittleLife Freedom S4 Chid Carrier review.
Pros
- Large volume of storage
- Great for hiking
- Fully adjustable for parents of different heights
- Range of carrier accessories available
Cons
- Doesn't fold down to a compact size
Best baby carrier for hiking
www.littlelife.com
Description
This durable baby carrier designed is ideal to accompany you on all your adventures, particularly if you’re heading on a walking holiday. Not only is it super lightweight at just 2.5kg, it also features lightweight airflow shoulder straps for breathability to help keep your upper body cool on warmer days.
The added extras really made this carrier stand out including the foot stirrups, viewing mirror, face cushion and sun shade for sunny days. Our mum tester loved these extra features as well as the added storage solutions. “We liked using the sun shade too, it is easy to add on to the seat and worked well. I put his nappies and wipes in the back pocket and his drink in the side pocket. It all fit well and had more room if needed,” one mum said.
Our parent testers loved the sturdiness of this carrier and found it very easy to strap their little ones in safely. It also comes with plenty of storage for all your walking essentials like nappies and wipes.
Although some parents found it a little too large and bulky, active parents loved its practicality, smart design and added extras including the top grab handles, pivoting hip belt, and adjustable seating, offering comfort for both parent and child.
Silver – Best baby carrier at Mother&Baby Awards 2023 Read our full Cross Country S4 Child Carrier review
Pros
- Sturdy and secure
- Lightweight
- Plenty of pockets for storage
Cons
- Large and bulky making it tricky to store
Best baby carrier for bonding with baby
redirect.viglink.com
Description
This soft and cosy cotton wrap is designed to provide your newborn with the comforting sensation of being in the womb. Offering four different carrying positions to accommodate your baby, the Dreamgenii® SnuggleRoo Baby Carrier is designed to be suitable from birth to 12 months.
Made from 100% cotton, the SnuggleRoo is gentle on both your baby's delicate skin and yours, leaving no red marks behind. Its simple design promotes that all important bonding experience between parent and child while allowing for hands-free parenting, ideal for busy mums and dads on the go.
During testing, parents found the carrier comfortable and convenient, especially during the newborn stage. “I loved how high and close it held baby to me, so he felt reassured at all times too,” commented our mum tester Rosemary. Although some parents found the instructions a bit tricky to follow initially, with mum Natalie saying, “they weren’t very clear on how to wear it,” parents eventually praised the carrier's soft material and absence of complicated buckles or mechanisms.
The SnuggleRoo's lightweight and compact design make it easy to store away and carry, fitting neatly into your baby bag or stroller without being bulky. Our mum tester Georgia said, “it is lightweight, so can easily be folded up into your change back, popped underneath the pushchair or packed in a suitcase, without taking up too much space.” Parents also appreciated its versatility and comfort, making it a go-to choice for outings and busy schedules.
Our testers also found it very easy to adjust as baby grows, with mum tester Sooha commenting, “It’s easy to adjust which saves valuable time.” They also agreed that the fact it was machine washable was brilliant after an accident, making it very easy to keep clean.
Award: Bronze – best baby carrier at Mother&Baby Awards 2023. Read our full Dreamgenii Snuggleroo Baby Carrier review
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to wear
- Doesn't take up much space,
- Soft material
- The baby is positioned close to you
Cons
- Instructions could have been clearer, only suitable up to 12 months
5.
Joie Savvy
Best ergonomic baby carrier
joiebaby.com
Description
Shortlisted in the 2022 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling
With 4 carrying positions to choose from, you'll never be without the perfect position you need to keep baby snuggly and close with the Joie Savvy. Lighten the load with a smart and secure back strap that distributes weight evenly and adjusts easily for a fine-tuned fit, a feature our parent testers loved. With padded and plush shoulder straps, putting your back into it has never felt so comfortable. With optimal support that lets your baby sit in a comfortable M-shaped position, the Joie Savvy also promotes healthy spine and hip development, certified hip healthy by the hip dysplasia institute.
Our tester Amie said: "I would recommend this product. Was easy to lighten the load with a smart and secure strap that distributes weight evenly and adjusts easily for a fine-tuned fit. This was great for me as my back is not the best. So with the optimal support let my little one sit smart in an ergonomic M-shaped position that promotes healthy spine and hip development, certified hip healthy by the hip dysplasia institute. Very quick and easy to take baby in and out with the clever auto click magnetic buckles on the shoulder straps allowed me to easily put on and adjust the carrier by myself. The Sun hood was a great help if I had forgotten my baby's hat. Great weight range from 3.5 to 16 kg (approx. 3 years)."
Read our full Joie Savvy review
Pros
- Four carrying positions
- Designed for healthy hip development
Cons
- Can feel too hot in the summer months
Best baby carrier for hot weather
redirect.viglink.com
Description
The Ergobaby Baby 360 Cool Air Carrier has four ergonomic wearing positions: parent facing, on the back, on the hip, and on the front but facing forwards. Our parent testers loved the 'cool air mesh feature' which gave them the peace of mind that baby would stay cool in the hot weather thanks to the breathable material. The only downside was that our mum testers found it quite fiddly to use and often needed a bit of help to get their baby secure in the carrier.
Our tester Beata Jenner said: "The mesh design is great, especially during the summer days, meaning your baby can't overheat, and I love the fact it comes in different colours. The Ergobaby 360 Cool Air Baby Carrier is very practical and a lot smaller and easier to carry around than our previous carrier. The best element of this carrier for me as mum is the even weight distribution, this is thanks to the wide back strap and padded shoulder straps."
Read our full Ergobaby Baby 360 Cool Air Carrier review
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Gives an even weight distribution
- Simple to use
- Comfy
Cons
- The back buckle is challenging to do up and un-do on your own
Best baby carrier for back pain
Description
Gold winner for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier at the M&B Awards 2022.
BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Harmony is a comfortable and versatile baby carrier for both you and baby. Crafted with care in every detail, the baby carrier has a wide seat area and adjustable head support and is made of cool mesh that gently hugs your little one. Our parent testers loved the features that made this carrier more comfortable including the waist belt padded back support, and padded shoulder straps will help relieve pressure on the baby wearer.
Tested by mum Natalie for the M&B Awards 2022: "Baby Bjorn is one of my favourite brands, and the Bjorn harmony carrier certainly does not disappoint. It has a great mesh design, we have it in the classic black colour, which looks stylish and sophisticated. It is so simple to use and feels very comfortable on the back, and padded in all the right areas, plus my babies love being in it, which is fantastic. We have previously used another carrier, and in comparison, the harmony feels and looks luxurious."
Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Harmony review
Pros
- Simple to use
- Very comfortable
- Strong and breathable fabric
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited colour options
Best baby carrier for softness
www.johnlewis.com
Description
Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards and won Gold in 2020 for Best Baby Carrier/Sling category
The FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap is made of wood pulp from natural forests and sustainably managed tree farms. Our mum testers found this wrap incredibly soft, light as a feather and incredibly breathable. Its fibres absorb 70 per cent more moisture than Cotton, allowing for a drier sleeping environment for napping babies. Softer than silk, our slings have a smooth surface area, giving the fabrics a soft feel and ensuring comfort for sensitive skin. Its fibres are known to last longer and withstand repeated wash cycles compared to cotton, and our parent testers loved how premium the fabric felt.
Our tester Lindsey says: "I would highly recommend the FreeRider as it has been impeccably designed, from the beautiful pattern on the sling right down to the (sustainably sourced) packaging it comes in, which is a gift box in itself. The material is incredibly soft and strong, which gives me confidence that my baby will be not only comfortable in it but safe too. It even comes with a little pouch to keep it clean and safe; it folds up perfectly to fit into my nappy changing bag."
Read our full FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap review
Pros
- Beautiful design options
- Soft and strong
- Easy to clean
- lightweight and get for popping in your bag
Cons
- Misses out on some features that you might find in a carrier i.e. more lumbar support, a built-in pocket, etc
Best baby carrier for support
redirect.viglink.com
Description
Winner in the M&B Awards 2019 winning Bronze in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling category
Designed with support in mind, the Ergobaby Omni 360 is a much-loved choice by our parent testers, and it's easy to see why. With thick straps to distribute the weight to relieve the pressure from your lower back, to support the healthy development of baby's hips, our testers found it very comfortable to wear. With different positions to choose from, through birth to toddlerhood, this baby carrier is one that grows with your little one, making it good value for money.
Mum reviewer Izzy says: "Amazing carrier. I had plantar fasciitis and was on crutches in pregnancy due to pelvic girdle pain. I never thought I could carry my baby and was recommended not to, but it made me sad, and after 8 months I wanted to carry my baby.
"I asked around, and this carrier was widely recommended, so I thought I would try it. I had seen other mums who had PGP and who struggled with their post-natal bodies successfully carrying their babies close to them and to be honest was so jealous, and it made me cry. So I finally got one, and immediately it was obvious this carrier was right for my body and my baby. "It's so comfy I feel like I'm hands-free and could go to a rave or festival happily with him sat there bobbing along! This is a game changer, and it had given me the right to carry my baby close to me. I'm forever grateful and never realised how emotional it could be to be stripped of this right of motherhood."
Read our full Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier review
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easily packs away
- Comfortable to wear
- Great functional features
Cons
- Parents felt the material could be more breathable
Best baby carrier for travelling
Description
This won a 2020 Silver Best Baby Carrier/Sling in the Mother&Baby Awards
This multifunctional BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini is soft and breathable and perfect for carrying your newborn in the early months. Our parent testers found the carrier was easy to adjust themselves making it simple to use during the day and through the night, as well as having a detachable front section that you can lift out when your baby is sleeping. The only downside was that our testers would have loved the addition of a little more padding on the shoulders, but having said that, they loved that it wasn't too bulky to wear.
Our tester Charlotte says: "The carrier is very transportable, it isn't too bulky, and it is very easy to use when taking your baby out and about. It is ideal for newborns who like to be held all the time, as it allows you to get things done while your baby is sleeping! It's much quicker and easier to use than the stretchy wrap style slings, and my baby was still able to sleep whilst in this carrier."
Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini review
Pros
- Fully adjustable
- Lovely soft material for baby
- Washes well
- Easy to use
Cons
- Could do with more padding on the shoulder straps
Best baby carrier for versatility
Description
The Beco 8 was reviewed by our mum testers and won the 2020 M&B Bronze Award for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling, but the Beco Gemini carrier seems to be as good, if not better.
This smart baby carrier has a lot to offer, with a built-in headrest and superior strap and leg padding to provide the support and comfort needed for you and your growing baby. With four ergonomic carrying positions, parents loved how easy it was to adjust the straps and personalise to their shape. Our testers also loved how easy it was to wash – a must for any parent.
Mum Louisa wrote on Amazon: "Excellent baby carrier, incredibly comfortable and a lot less structured than some other bigger brands. Very easy to use, but do read the instructions. Our 9-month-old daughter, who previously hated any kind of carrier, absolutely loves it. We especially like the multi-ways of using the carrier. Very soft material and easy to wash too. Overall great value for money."
Read our full Beco Gemini Baby Carrier review
Pros
- Good variety of designs
- Comfy for parent and baby with good back support
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some found the clips and straps a little tricky to use
Best baby carrier for newborns
Description
Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling
Soft, cosy and super comfortable, our parent testers loved how there was no complicated wrapping or tying in this sling/carrier hybrid. Ideal for bonding with your newborn, the cosy jersey fabric keeps your baby close to your heart in a natural position. Parents loved how supportive the waist belt was as well as the spreadable shoulder straps for that added secure feeling and that this carrier is acknowledged as hip-healthy by International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Parents also loved how this carrier machine washable.
Our tester Helen Broe says: "This product is a hybrid of a sling combined with a carrier. When I put the Ergo Embrace on, my baby will feel so comfortable she will fall asleep far quicker than other carriers. Her head is well supported, and I have been able to bend down and tie my toddler's shoelaces whilst carrying my baby. I am also able to get ready at the speed of light with simple straps that fasten easily. There is no excess material to tuck away, which I am used to being such a small build. The weight is evenly distributed across my shoulders, and I have never noticed any red marks on my baby's legs. With other carriers, I have even changed her outfit, so the material did not dig in, however, she is able to wear anything as the material hugs her without rubbing."
Read our full Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier review
Pros
- Good head support
- Comfy
- Quick and easy to fasten
- Easy to clean
- Less fiddly than some others
Cons
- Some parents would like the addition of a hood, as found on some other Ergobaby carriers
Best baby carrier for active parents
www.babybjorn.co.uk
Description
Won a Silver Award in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling
Designed for active and social parents, our parents found their little ones loved being carried in the BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Move and parents found it equally comfortable thanks to the built-in back support and a waist belt that distributes weight away from the baby wearer's shoulders. Although parents found it simple to adjust as baby grows, they did find the different carrying positions limited.
Our tester R D Farrar says: "This carrier is AMAZING! It is simple to use, comfortable to wear, and my little one seems to be comfortable too! She loves being carried, and this is by far the best one I have seen and used. This carrier feels safe and strong and so well made. I can clip my little girl in and out so quickly and simply, but with the feeling of safety. It is simply a must-have product!"
Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Move review
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Secure for baby
- Easy to clip together
- Folds up small
- Breathable
Cons
- You can't use this to carry baby on your back, which some parents would have liked
14.
Izmi Baby Wrap
Best baby carrier for breastfeeding
izmibaby.co.uk
Description
Won a Bronze Award in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling
The Izmi Baby Wrap is ideal for using from birth and is a great starting point for parents who might be new to slings. The two hands-free carrying positions include front carry and hip carry and it can also be used as breastfeeding support. Our parent testers loved the luxuriously soft two-way stretch bamboo material that's designed to hug your baby's shape while supporting a hip-healthy position, recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Mums found the straps spread evenly over their shoulders for added comfort and the fabric was also good for providing stabilising head support. This means that baby felt secure yet unrestricted when being carried.
Our tester Emily Hentley says: This is absolutely amazing it's like giving your newborn a cuddle the sling holds them right in tight, and they are comfy as well as you. When my little boy was in the wrap, he was so happy and settled. I have a toddler too and being able to have him in the wrap means I can easily to playgrounds with my daughter or help her with other activities.
Read our full Izmi Baby Wrap review
Pros
- Easy to wrap without too much laxity
- Soft material
- Easy to fold away and store
- Supportive
Cons
- It's quite quick to outgrow
Best easy to wear baby carrier
Description
Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling
Easy to use when you're on your own, this carrier pops on over your head like a t-shirt, giving you all the great positioning, support and flexibility of a stretchy wrap but without the headache of tying securely or coming loose – a feature which parents new to slings loved. Once on, it tightens down to fit baby and wearer exactly, thanks to the clever rings. The soft wide straps make carrying more comfortable for parents and allow you to tuck your little one's head in cheek to chest when needed. Close Caboo Lite is designed to provide all the same closeness for that little bit less!
Our tester Miriam Bibi says: "The caboo is a new mum's best friend! It allows me to keep baby close to my body while giving me the freedom to move about the house, have a cup of tea and get some chores done! It really does change your day completely from being quite sedentary to being mobile while feeling the closeness and warmth of baby. I found other wrap-style slings really tricky to put on, but the Caboo is more structured and much easier to wear. It's quite easy to put on quickly and soothe baby."
Read our full Close Caboo Lite Baby Carrier review
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Safe and secure for baby
- Soft and breathable material
- Great for small babies
Cons
- Parents found it challenging to set-up
Best baby carrier for older babies and toddlers
littleairballoon.com
Description
We love the Najell Original Volume 2 carrier because it is simple to use. Our parent testers found they could quickly and comfortably carry their little ones in one of five positions with ease and they loved the magnetic buckle clips that make it perfect for busy mums or mums of multiple children. As baby grows, the carrier grows with them. All you seed to do is simply pop in the hip seat, which is perfect for bigger babies or toddlers.
Mother&Baby mum tester Ria said: "Overall I would genuinely recommend this baby carrier to my friends and family and I am excited to continue to use it as our baby grows and switch between all its functions. It’s already had so much use in the house and outside and it’s so comfy to have on."
**Read our full Najell Original Volume 2 baby carrier review
**
Pros
- Unique hip seat
- Added padding and comfort
- Usability
- Magnetic buckles
- Great for older babies and toddlers
- Fantastic for single parents
- Fabulous design
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Instructions can be confusing
Best baby carrier for under £30
www.boots.com
Description
The Mothercare two position carrier is suitable for newborns (from 3.5kg) using the removable head cushion. It has been designed to give a comfortable fit to parents of all sizes as well as your little one. It features wide padded shoulder straps and a soft lumbar support that spreads weight across the body for comfort. It is suitable up to 10kg.
One mum tester said: "I bought this a few months ago and love it for convenience of just nipping to the shops or wanting to go for walks etc. I wouldn’t say it’s suitable from birth as my little girl was way too small for it and was around 2 and a half months by the time she fit in it hence only giving a 4 star but she loves it now. Good quality and easily adjustable straps as both me and my partner are very different heights and sizes and we found that it adjusts easily to both of our needs. All round happy with it and do recommend especially for the price."
Pros
- Facing inward from birth
- Facing outward from 4 months to 10kg
- Padded shoulder straps for mum and dad's comfort
- Wide waistband for balanced weight distribution and lower back support
- Suitable from birth to 10kg
Cons
- Not many colours to choose from
Best baby carrier for carry positions
Description
A versatile wrap the Gaia Stretchy Baby Carrier Wrap is made from 100% certified organic cotton making it a great choice for both breathability and sustainability. Super soft and breathable, it can be used from newborn up to 3yrs, or 15kg making it great value. We love that it has three different carry positions and to make our life easter, it is machine washable.
One mum tester said: "This is my second wrap from Gaia Baby and it’s such a must have I needed two! Would definitely recommend it’s great quality and so handy in the house when you want to get on with things."
Pros
- Soft and breathable with easy to use
- Gender neutral and size inclusive design
- Naturally anti-bacterial, biodegradable and free from chemical dyes
Cons
- Machine wash only
Best baby carrier for adjustability
Description
A stylish carrier, the Bebear carrier features adjustable shoulder straps and the option of an impressive 6 carrying positions. It is suitable from 0 - 36 months. Plus, it also includes 3 dribble bibs, 1 head hood and 1 waist extender. There is also a zipper pocket on the belt of the baby carrier so you can put some small essentials like your phone or bank card when you go out with your little one.
Review: "This is an excellent carrier! It has a little seat that can be used separately as a hip carrier or in with the sling. The baby sits on the seat as opposed to hanging in the sling. Great for her hips and she seems very comfortable! Absolutely would recommend. And for what you get the price is great!"
Pros
- Adjustable shoulder strap and waist strap are all using broad and wide cotton padding.
- 6 ways to carry baby.
- A a zipper pocket on the belt of baby carrier can put some small things when you go out with your baby.
Cons
- One review said the front teething pad they recieved only had one popper
The verdict
The best carrier, in our opinion, is the NUNA CUDL. Although it's on the pricier side of carriers, it offers parents and babies a choice of four carrying positions. It is suitable for newborns up to infants three years of age. It's brilliant for bonding, allowing baby to sleep while you get on with your day, hands-free and in comfort. It also comes with a hood to provide shade in the summer and shelter from the rain.
If you're not sure what kind of baby carrier you need, some towns have baby carrier libraries that allow you to borrow a carrier for a couple of weeks for a small charge. They also run advice workshops on sling-wearing, which could be well worth checking out before parting with your cash.
Are baby carriers worth the money?
The general consensus amongst mums and dads who want to get on with their day with their hands free while keeping baby close and safe is that baby carriers are definitely worth buying. Having said that, baby carriers and slings can seriously vary in price, so it’s worth doing your research into what features will suit you and what age it will be able to support your baby up until to make sure you’re getting the best option for you for your money.
What are the disadvantages of a baby carrier?
Carrying a baby around on your body can feel rather heavy, particularly after prolonged periods when recovering from childbirth. Just like carrying a heavy backpack, it can lead to shoulder, neck and back pain. You can help combat this by buying a carrier that evenly distributes the weight across your shoulders to help reduce the chance of muscle strain. And remember, it’s not advised for baby to sit in a carrier for hours on end so it’s important for the both of you to not use the carrier for prolonged periods.
Another downside many parents find is that it can get rather hot when carrying your baby during the summer months or in warmer environments. That’s why it’s a good idea to opt for a carrier with breathable fabric to rest against both your body and your little ones.
Should I get a sling or baby carrier?
This really does depend on your lifestyle and your own personal preferences. While baby slings or wraps are often more comfortable to wear on the body, they can be tricky to get the hand of at first, particularly when you’re sleep deprived, tying the wrap successfully can be very difficult. There are however many guides on successful baby wearing and how to use a baby wrap.
That’s why we’d recommend a carrier for beginners who might not feel so confident about using a wrap with ease. They’re much easier to fasten and adjust as your baby grows but the downside is that they probably won’t be as comfortable against your body.
Is a front or back baby carrier better?
Again this really does depend on what you and your baby find most comfortable. The most important factor you should consider however is your baby’s size and age when it comes to which way they’re happy to face.
As a general safety rule, back carriers are only suitable for babies who can support themselves which tends to be around 4 to 6 months. These can last your little one until your child is 3-4 and often look more like rucksacks, allowing them to have a better view of the world around them.
Front carriers are best for newborns and younger babies as they allow baby to remain closer to you. They come in the form of both carriers and wraps and provide a closer bonding experience for you and your little one.
Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.