8 Best Baby Carriers (2024): Wraps, Slings, and Carriers

Feeling unsure about the style of shipping you need? Below is a quick overview of the different types of baby carriers so you can better understand their differences.

Structured service providers: These are your standard baby carriers with shoulder straps, a waist belt, and a support pocket for the baby to sit in. The best thing about them is the ability to adjust to your baby’s size, as they usually fit right up until your baby weighs 35 pounds or more, and all the positions your baby might want to assume in these that first month of life. However, they are a bit large and bulky compared to lighter carriers.

Carrier wrap: They are used to dress babies, with just a long strip of fabric tied around the body and baby. We found these to be comfortable and breathable but less secure and supportive, and are really only easy to use when the child is quite young. However, this can be a good, affordable solution for babies who just want to be held or held close to you. It may require more study time to complete properly.

Hanging ring: These are similar to wraps, but use a single ring to secure the baby in a horizontal or inward-facing position. They’re light and breathable, but have a clear learning curve and also feel a little less secure than structured packs. However, they have more positions than a wrapped case and are easier to fit in a pocket.

Toddler carrier: Toddlers can fit into a variety of structured carriers, depending on your child’s weight and size. But because toddlers are so mobile, they’re often not as happy to be held against your chest as they were when they were babies (I know, I’m sad too). Alternatives are lap belts and toddler seats, in which you tie the lap belt to a small seat for your toddler to sit on.