Choosing the right baby carrier can feel a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes—one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Whether you’re looking for something cozy for those early newborn days, a carrier that makes travel with a little one easier, or a versatile option that grows with your baby, there’s a carrier out there for you (and pro tip—you might even need more than one to turn to for different reasons).
When I first became a mom, baby carriers quickly became one of my essentials. With my son Caden, wearing him in a carrier was my go-to for getting things done around the house and sneaking out for coffee while he napped close to me. Then with Willow, my second, I realized just how invaluable a carrier could be during travel—we tackled our first airport experience when she was just a few months old, and I don’t know what I would’ve done without that carrier keeping her snug while I managed bags and boarding passes.
That’s why I’ve rounded up some of the top picks to fit different lifestyles and needs, so you can keep your baby close while keeping your hands free.
Benefits of babywearing
I'm here to tell you babywearing isn’t just convenient—it brings a ton of emotional and physical benefits for both you and your baby. Here’s why so many parents choose to keep their little ones close with a carrier:
- Keep your hands free: Get things done while keeping your little one close.
- Enhance bonding: Your baby can hear your heartbeat, feel your movements, and stay comforted by the close physical contact.
- Make travel easier: From airports to crowded spaces, a carrier makes getting around with a baby so much simpler.
- Help your baby adjust to the world: Being close mimics the comfort of the womb, easing their transition to life outside.
- Support your baby's health: Babywearing can reduce crying, improve digestion, aid breastfeeding, and even help lower the risk of postpartum depression.
- Everyday calm: Keeps baby content while letting you stay present and confident.
Common babywearing questions
How do I choose the right baby carrier for my baby's age?
The best carrier for your baby depends on their age, weight range, and developmental stage. For newborns, you might lean towards a soft wrap, while a more traditional baby carrier is great as they grow. Most carriers specify age and weight limit guidelines, so you can be confident it’s suitable for your little one.
How long can I carry my baby in a carrier each day?
There’s no set time limit, but watch for signs of comfort in both you and your baby. Take breaks as needed, especially with newborns. As long as the carrier is ergonomic (meaning it supports your child’s hips in the m position with knees slightly higher than their bottom and evenly distributes weight for you) and both of you feel comfortable, babywearing can be a regular part of your day.
Can both parents use the same baby carrier?
Most carriers have adjustable straps and waist belts, so switching between parents is easy—just tweak the settings for a comfortable fit. If it feels simpler, some families go for a second carrier so each parent has one ready to go when they need it.
Choosing a baby carrier
With so many benefits to babywearing, next up comes the decision making. There are many types of baby carriers out there, so it can be tricky to figure out which one will really work for you. The key is finding a carrier that feels comfortable for both you and your baby—something that fits your lifestyle, whether it’s something for the newborn stage or for hands-free errands around town. Here’s a quick guide to what to look for, so you can pick a carrier that supports you every step of the way.
Carrier vs. wrap
Carriers are structured with buckles or straps, making them easy to put on and adjust. They’re ideal for convenience—just snap in and you’re ready to go! Carriers provide great support for both you and your baby, making them the best choice for longer wear.
Wraps are long pieces of fabric that you wrap around you and your baby. While they require some practice (many companies offer video tutorials for this), they offer a snug and custom fit. Wraps are loved for their cozy feel, making them a go-to choice for newborns.
Fit
A well-designed carrier or wrap will distribute your baby’s weight evenly across your body, easing the strain on your back and shoulders.
For carriers, look for ones with wide, padded straps and a supportive waist belt to keep everything balanced. This structure helps in maintaining your posture and provides support for your little one, especially during longer outings.
Wraps, on the other hand, are all about flexibility and can be adjusted to fit different body types, which is great for getting that custom feel. While it might take a little more time to get the hang of using a wrap, the payoff is a snug fit that both you and your baby will appreciate.
For both carriers and wraps, it's important to ensure that your baby's hips and legs are positioned correctly in an m shape, supporting healthy hip development and reducing the risk of hip dysplasia (a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly). This positioning helps evenly distribute your baby's body weight and keeps their hips in a natural, safe alignment.
Comfort
Comfort for your baby is one of the most important things to consider when buying a carrier. A soft, breathable fabric helps keep your baby cozy and content and avoids any materials that might irritate their sensitive skin. A supportive headrest is also key for those much-needed naps on the go, giving your baby the head and neck support they need.
As a parent, your comfort is just as important. Look for carriers or wraps with adjustable options, so you can get the fit just right for your body, this way you’re not left with any aches and pains. And for those warm-weather adventures, opt for materials designed that keep you both cool.
Ease of use
Look for carriers with simple buckles or ties that don't require an engineering degree to secure. Ideally, you should be able to put on the carrier or wrap and secure your baby comfortably in it with minimal fuss.
Consider how quick it is to adjust the carrier when you're on the move, especially if you're hopping in and out of the car or switching between mom and dad wearing it.
Some carriers are designed with features like pockets for essentials or easy-to-reach adjustments. These little conveniences can make life so much smoother when you have your hands full.
Ultimately, the right carrier will blend seamlessly into your routine, making it simple to keep your baby close.
Top baby carriers for easy babywearing
Here are some of the top rated baby carriers on the market:
Best overall: Ergobaby Omni 360
If you're looking for a versatile carrier, this is a top choice. Made for newborns to toddlers (up to 45 lbs), you can rely on this option for multiple carrying positions. Available in breathable cotton or mesh, it keeps you and your baby comfortable on walks or longer outings.
Parents love the ergonomic design that evenly distributes weight, saving your back and shoulders while keeping the baby snug. It's even designed for hands-free breastfeeding. And it's machine washable for easy cleanup.
Best budget: YOU+ME 4-in-1 Newborn to Toddler Chest Carrier
For parents looking for a budget-friendly carrier that doesn’t skimp on features, this carrier is a top pick. It's designed to support babies from 8 to 32 lbs and offers four carrying positions. With adjustable straps and a supportive waist belt, comfort is a priority for both you and baby.
This option also includes a removable bib to keep your clothes and carrier clean, especially during those early days of spit-ups and drool. It's easy to adjust and comfortable for extended use, and even has a wallet-friendly option.
Best splurge: Artipoppe
For moms who value both function and style, the Artipoppe really is worth the splurge. I’m in love with mine. It has a sleek, minimalistic design with criss-cross back straps and a supportive waist buckle that makes it easy to slip on solo, a feature I can’t say enough about. It works for newborns and up to 45 lbs, and it offers front carry from birth, and forward facing or back carry as your baby grows. Artipoppe’s attention to detail and range of fabric choices make this a true investment piece that’s well worth it IMO.
Best for newborns: Solly Baby wrap
What is the best baby carrier for a newborn? Well, when it comes to those early days, the Solly Baby wrap is a top pick for many moms, and for good reason. This wrap keeps your baby close in the coziest way and is made from lightweight, high-quality American fabric, it’s designed to feel soft against your baby’s skin and comfortable for you, even during long stretches of wear.
There can be a bit of a learning curve with this wrap, since it may look like just a long piece of fabric, but once you get the hang of it, you can wrap and secure baby in under a minute.
One of the best parts? Solly offers support like free fit checks and one-on-one consults with babywearing educators to help you feel confident from the start.
Best for toddlers: WildBird ring sling
For parents of active toddlers, the WildBird ring sling is a great choice. Made from comfortable modal and linen fabrics, this sling combines style and flexibility, offering a custom, snug fit that enhances bonding while keeping your child secure. It's perfect for quickly getting toddlers in and out, whether you're running errands, walking, or need hands-free moments at home.
Wearing options include carrying your child on your front, hip, or back, and the sling grows with your toddler, supporting up to 35 lbs.
Best for travel: Baby Bjorn Harmony
For parents on the go, the BabyBjorn Harmony is a dream travel companion. Lightweight and easy to pack into a stroller, diaper bag, or carry-on, it’s designed with both comfort and convenience in mind. The Harmony’s pressure-relieving waist belt, padded shoulder straps, and back support make it incredibly comfortable for extended wear—ideal for navigating airports, sightseeing, or simply strolling around a new city. It features a soft, flexible fabric and allows for four carry positions (newborn, facing in, facing out, and back) and supports from 7 to 40 lbs. (And if you’re planning a trip, take a peek at my guide to baby-friendly vacation spots for some travel inspiration).
Most versatile: Baby Tula Explore
For parents looking for a carrier that grows with their baby, this one is incredibly versatile. It has multiple carrying options—front-facing in, front-facing out, and back carry—and adjusts easily to fit babies from 7 to 45 lbs, which is a high maximum weight compared to other carriers, making it ideal for long-term use.
It's definitely designed for comfort and comes with an adjustable seat for growing legs, a neck pillow for extra height, and lumbar support to reduce back strain. And there are accessories like a matching sun hood to keep baby’s head covered and a compact storage pocket.
The right carrier or wrap really makes such a big difference in your life—letting you keep your baby close while having the freedom to go about your day. So, whether you're choosing a carrier for everyday errands, travel, hands-free bonding time, a baby front carrier or the best toddler carrier for you and your little one, there's an option out there to fit your needs.
If you’re building a baby registry, a high-quality carrier is a must-have that I always tell new parents to add to the list. And if you’re looking for more baby gear recs, check out the blog on other must-haves that make life with a little one easier.
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