A baby carrier can be a lifesaver when you need to keep your baby close and still get things done. Check out some of our picks for the best baby carriers around, so you can keep your hands free and your baby happy.
Sometimes babies just need to be close to their parents — or even their sitter. If you’ve ever had to resort to carrying your baby around for hours, then you know how handy it would be to carry baby and keep your hands free. With the right baby holder, you can keep baby close while you cook, clean, read a book or brush your teeth. This guide covers our top picks for the best baby carriers on the market so you can find the right one for your needs and budget.
The Best Baby Carriers
- Solly Baby Wrap – Best newborn baby carrier
- LÍLLÉbaby Ring Sling – Best sling carrier
- BABYBJÖRN Carrier – Best front-facing carrier
- Deuter Kid Comfort – Best hiking carrier
- Infantino Flip 4-In-1 – Best affordable carrier
Solly Baby Wrap
Lightweight, soft and breathable, the Solly Baby Wrap is a great infant carrier that keeps newborns close — and it’s perfect for warm weather.
LÍLLÉbaby Ring Sling
Made of all natural 100% linen, the LÍLLÉbaby ring sling is super lightweight and easy to use, and it can be stuffed in a bag for easy transport.
BABYBJÖRN Carrier Free
BABYBJÖRN carriers can be used as front-facing carriers or backpack carriers, and they offer a variety of options, from newborn designs to ergonomic models you can wear for a long time.
Deuter Kid Comfort
The Deuter Kid Comfort backpack carrier is designed specifically for hiking with your baby or toddler. It’s light and ventilated, and the seating area is comfortable and easy to access.
Infantino Flip 4-In-1
If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, the Infantino Flip 4-in-1 comes in at around $30 and is built to see your baby through from infant to toddler. It features a convertible seat and wide weight-bearing ability (8 to 32 lbs).
Conclusion
You may need more than one carrier, depending on your situation, where you’re going, and who you’re sharing with. Consider all of these factors carefully before investing in a carrier.
Baby Carrier FAQs
Some studies show that babies who are carried at least three hours per day cry 43% less overall and 51% less at night. A carrier makes this task a lot easier and allows you to stay productive.
Make sure your baby carrier fits your needs: Do you want a front-facing carrier? Do you need it to be easy to put on by yourself? Are you interested in strapping your baby in for a hike? In addition, look for carriers you can easily clean that will last a long time.
Some carriers are appropriate for newborns, and some are not. Check out the Solly Baby Wrap or other wrap-style carriers for the best option for your newbie.
Newborn carriers should be switched for a more appropriate size once baby reaches the maximum weight for their carrier. Many toddlers benefit from the close contact provided by continued carrying, but once your older child begins to prefer more time on the ground, it may be time to retire the carrier altogether.
Wraps are generally safer for newborns, but beyond that, it all depends on your and baby’s preference. For older babies who have developed their own neck support, a non-wrap-style carrier may be preferred so they can interact with the environment more.
