According to Brooklyn-based baby-wearing expert, Adriane Stare, the best baby carrier is practical, comfortable and safe. “You want something that fits your body, your lifestyle and you understand how to use it and adjust it well,” she says. So if you’re like me and can’t figure out how tie a wrap for the life of you, skip it and go with something more structured with less of a learning curve.
Here are the key things to consider when purchasing your own—and BTW, if you can find a local babywearing group or consultant in your area to try the best baby carriers before you buy, it’s absolutely worth it.
- Adjustability and fit: For a proper fit, which is the absolute most important for your comfort and baby’s safety, always follow the TICKS babywearing guidelines, advises Babywearing Educator Jay McMillin, CLEC. “The carrier should be at a height where you can kiss the top of your baby’s head and should be snug enough that baby is resting supported on your chest without room to slump down.” Nothing should be covering your baby’s face and the panel should not reach above their head—if it does, they’re too tiny for it. “Ideally, the legs of the baby should be in an “M” position, spread squat, knees higher than their bum,” she tells us. Always check the age and weight recommendations prior to purchasing a carrier, as well as the ability to adjust it to custom fit your body and baby.
- Ease of use: The best baby carrier is one you’ll actually use. “If you end up with a carrier that’s uncomfortable, or worse, you can’t figure out how to use, then no amount of bells, whistles or fancy features will make it any more useful to you,” says Stare. “Practicality is everything.” It should be easy to put on—period.
- Your lifestyle: In addition to factors like your local climate, consider when, where and for how long you plan on wearing your little one. If you’re looking for something versatile, easy to use and that will grow with your baby until you don’t want to wear them anymore, McMillin says you might gravitate toward a buckle carrier. Other parents may want a separate carrier, wrap or sling for different baby-wearing scenarios. For example, a woven wrap for long naps, a ring sling for social events and a buckle carrier in the car for quick errands.
Best baby carrier 2023
Best overall
Ergobaby Omni Breeze
Merchant
To say we’re obsessed with the Ergobaby Omni Breeze is an understatement. It’s our favorite baby carrier by far for a whole slew of reasons, starting with how lightweight and comfortable it is for extended wear. It’s also incredibly breathable, which babies who run hot—and parents who have to wear them a lot—absolutely appreciate.
Some standout features include the easily adjustable and cushioned shoulder straps (which can be worn regularly or crossed over the shoulders for extra support), padded lumbar support for ergonomic comfort and thoughtfully-designed storage. The design even includes clever side pockets and a surprisingly spacious zippered fanny pack pouch in the front to stash your cell phone, keys and the baby basics.
A handy hood helps shield baby from the sun and your boob when breastfeeding too, if desired. To accommodate many different body types, the vented waist belt extends from 25.5 inches to 55.25 inches and is a breeze (pun intended) to adjust.
Whether you want to carry your babe facing in, out, on your back or hip, the Omni has you covered. Fitting little ones from seven to 45 pounds, this top-rated carrier (loads of reviews and an average 4.7-star rating on Amazon) can be used from birth all the way into the preschool years so you definitely get your money’s worth.
Pros
- Adaptable, high-quality design and materials
- Super lightweight and breathable so you and baby don’t break a sweat
- Fits little ones from seven to 45 pounds without the need for a separate newborn insert
- Four carry positions (inward, out, back and hip) for extra versatility
- Loads of storage, including zippered pocket options and attachable front pouch to carry your phone, diaper and wipes
- Cushioned shoulder straps and padded lumbar support for ergonomic comfort
- Hood for sun protection and nursing privacy
- Plenty of stylish colors to choose from
- Doubles as one of the best backpack carriers
Cons
- More expensive than other brands, but worth it for the superior quality, comfort, breathability and built-in storage
