Baby Carriers Buying Guide

Chances are, if you're on the go with a little one along, you'll need some way to not only transport your tot, but also possibly use your arms, even your hands. You'll probably need a child transportation device, and if you're not in a stroller   type situation, a baby carrier is very helpful, especially if you're in somewhere with tight corners, like a shop or if you'd rather have appendages available to you while running errands or just out and about.  Some even find that a baby carrier   helps babies sleep, and find it easier to cook or do activities in the house with baby in tow. There are also quite a few different types, different styles, and (almost) all are machine washable or have removable machine washable parts. And, they come in a bevvy of colors and patterns, so whatever works best for your and baby's tastes. The prices also vary accordingly, and work with your budget. Keeping to a budget is important, namely because a lot of the not-so-name-brand baby carriers will carry your baby as well as the name brands, it just depends on what works best for you. Of course, these are also a great gift for a new parent, or for a continuing parent, and makes a great baby shower   present. It also depends on baby's weight. Some carriers are better for newborns, some can grow with your baby, and some work better for older babies. It just depends on what fits your baby, and what doesn't hurt your back. If you have back problems, check the weight distribution before buying.

Types of Baby Carriers

Sling Baby Carriers	Front Baby Carriers	Backpack Baby Carriers
Prices range from $30-$40. Styles vary and distribute weight from shoulders to lower back and hips. Ideal for breastfeeding mothers. Available in lightweight breathable fabrics. Slings don't have safety restraints. Fasten the harness and take extra caution against vigorous activity.	Consists of two shoulder straps and a supporting fabric seat. With a proper head support, can be used for newborns. Can hold up to 30 pounds. Wide price range $25-$85. Most can face both inward (for infants and napping babies) and outward (for older babies).	Good for when your baby can sit up alone (about six months). Require more storage space. Can support up to 40 pounds. Offers lower-back support. Can't see baby when they are placed in carrier. Prices start at $40. Models with extra bells and whistles can cost up to $300.

Things to Consider...

• Try before you buy. Be sure to place the baby in the carrier when testing the product.
• Verify that you have the right kind of carrier for your baby's age and size. Infants and newborns need proper head and neck support in any carrier.
• Find a carrier with a removable, washable fabric.
• If others will be using the carrier, make sure it is adjustable.
• Get a carrier that you can load your baby into and out of easily on your own. The backpacks are the trickiest to get the hang of, so make sure you get plenty of practice!
• When your child hits 40 pounds, graduate to a stroller .

Features

Here are a few different features a baby carrier might have. Consider how you will be using the carrier before spending money on these extra features.

• Removable Storage Pockets   -- May come in handy if you need easy access to money or credit cards.
• Side Entry Buckles   -- Makes loading and unloading easy for the front carriers . 
• Extra Padding   -- May be good for front carriers ,  but will just become bulky in sling carriers . 
• Adjustable Lumbar Support   -- Could be worth the extra money to spare your back.
• Removable Front   -- Will allow you to lay down your sleeping baby without waking him or her.
• Size Adjustment Buckle   -- Allows the carrier to grow with your baby, making it usable longer.

Related Guides

Strollers	Car Seats	Jogging Strollers

Related Products

Tandem Strollers	Changing Table	Diaper Bag

Top Names in Infant Wearing Devices

• Baby Bjorn  
• Evenflo  
• Infantino  
• Maya Wrap
• Kelty  

External Links

• ConsumerSearch -- Lots of reviews; they recommend the Baby Bjorn carriers.