Eight Questions To Ask Before Buying A Baby Carrier - Get Your Hands Back

A Baby Carrier is such a satisfying way of transporting your child around, lightweight and practical, easier to fit in the boot than a stroller, and very importantly, it is a great comfort for babies and toddlers alike, easing colic in newborns, soothing fretting babies and providing closeness.

1. Who will use the carrier?
Some carriers come in different sizes so if you and your partner both intend to use it, you will either have to purchase two carriers or buy one that is completely (and easily!) adjustable.

A design that is comfortable for you may not be for your partner. So if you both intend to use it, make sure that you are both comfortable, as well as the baby of course!

Equally, you may really like the floral design of one carrier but will daddy? Look at designs that are more unisex if you want daddy to carry the baby too. Or get one each!
 
2. Where will you use the carrier? Hot climates will dictate that you get a carrier that has breathable mesh and is lightweight without too much padding.
On the other hand if you are going to be out in colder or wetter weather, look for warmer fabric and a rain cover.

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3. How do you look?
You may be conscious of what you look like using the baby carrier so consider different styles to get something that suits you. But at the end of the day, you and your baby’s comfort are the most important factors.


4. How long will you use it for?
Some carriers are for younger babies (front carrier) while others are more suitable for older ones (backpack). This means you may need to buy more than one type as your baby gets older.

Many carriers offer different carrying positions meaning you can use it from newborn through to toddlerdom - or until they are just too heavy to carry!

5. How versatile do you want it to be?
The most popular form of carrier is the front style but this will only last you until they are about 9 months old. If you want to continue to carry your baby then look for a type that is more versatile, converting to back or hip carrier as they get older.

6. Do you want to breastfeed while the baby is in the carrier?
A sling or pouch is great if you want to breastfeed, as you can easily get the baby into the right position and the carrier offers discretion too.
 

7. Do you have any back or hip problems?If you do, always look for a type of carrier that allows the weight of the baby to be distributed on the hips and across both shoulders. This means the least amount of pressure on any one area.

A sling or pouch puts the weight onto one shoulder only so this may not be suitable for you.

Front carriers generally put the weight across the shoulders which may be all right for a small baby but as they get bigger may put too much strain on you.

The best type is a soft structured carrier or Mei Tai as weight is distributed more evenly.

8. How old is the baby?
Age will dictate what kind of baby carrier is suitable and what positions they can be carried in.  Each make and model will have its own recommendations.

The most important factor of all is to ensure that both you and your baby are comfortable at all times. If it doesn’t feel right, then that carrier isn’t right for you. But critically enjoy the freedom that a carrier gives you and the comfort it gives to your child.

Check out the range at Mom and Baby Shop