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When it comes to choosing the best baby carrier for your newborn, there are many factors to consider. From finding the right type of carrier to ensuring it provides the support and comfort your baby’s needs, this guide will walk you through the process of making the best decision for you and your little one.
Types of Newborn Baby Carriers
Baby carriers come in various styles, and not all are ideal for newborns. Here’s an overview of the different types of baby carriers:
1. Wrap Carriers
- What They Are: Long fabric pieces that wrap around your body to create a snug pouch for your baby
- Best For: Skin-to-skin contact and closeness during the newborn stage
- Key Features: Highly adjustable, suitable for small babies, and easy to store. Look for wraps designed for newborns to ensure proper support
2. Ring Slings
- What They Are: A single piece of fabric threaded through two rings
- Best For: Quick and easy adjustments, especially for short-term use
- Key Features: Lightweight and portable but may require a learning curve to use securely
3. Soft-Structured Carriers (SSCs)
- What They Are: More structured than wraps or slings, these carriers often feature padded straps, waistbands, and buckles
- Best For: Parents looking for ease of use and ergonomic support for both baby and caregiver
- Key Features: Choose SSCs with a newborn insert or those specifically designed for smaller infants
4. Mei Tai Carriers
- What They Are: A hybrid of wraps and SSCs with a structured design and long fabric straps
- Best For: Versatility and ease of use for newborns and older babies alike
- Key Features: Adjustable and less bulky than SSCs
Carriers to Avoid
- Backpack Carriers: These are designed for older infants who can sit up independently
- Unsupported Front-Facing Carriers: Ensure the carrier is designed to support a newborn’s developing neck and spine
What to Look for in a Baby Carrier
When choosing the best baby carrier for your newborn, prioritise these features:
1. Ergonomic Design
Look for carriers that promote the “M” position, where the baby’s knees are higher than their bottom. This supports healthy hip development
2. Head and Neck Support
Newborns have limited head control, so the carrier should provide adequate support to keep their head aligned with their body. Newborns should not face out in a carrier. They are ready for this around 6 months
3. Material
Choose breathable, soft fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo to prevent overheating and irritation
4. Adjustability
An adjustable carrier can grow with your baby and accommodate different caregivers’ body types
5. Ease of Use
Select a carrier that’s simple to put on and take off, especially if you’re new to babywearing
6. Safety Certifications
Ensure the carrier meets safety standards, such as certifications from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA)
Best Baby Carriers for Newborns by Ergobaby
Ergobaby carriers are specifically designed to provide comfort, support, and safety for newborns. You can choose from newborn specific carriers (these are designed specifically to support newborns and aren’t intended to be used past 1 year) or you can choose carriers that are adjustable from the newborn to toddler years for longer use. Here are some of the top options:
1. Ergobaby Omni Deluxe
- Features: Our best carrier with ultimate breathability, incredible comfort, and maximum storage to keep you supported and baby cozy - anytime, anywhere
- Material: Mesh, Cotton, or Linen
- Age Range: 0-4 years, 3.2kgs - 20.4kgs (no infant insert required)
- Why We Love It: The Omni Deluxe grows with your baby from the newborn stage to toddlerhood. With lumbar support for caregivers and ergonomic design for baby, it’s a top choice for all-day comfort
2. Embrace Newborn Carrier
- Features: Soft-knit fabric, newborn-specific design, and easy buckle system for quick adjustments
- Material: Ultra-soft jersey knit
- Age Range: 0-12 months, 3.2kgs - 11kgs
- Why We Love It: Perfect for the early weeks, it’s lightweight and promotes skin-to-skin bonding
3. Aura Wrap
- Features: This lightweight, stretchy wrap is a great choice for parents new to babywearing. Pre-marked stitching helps guide the wrapping process, making it easy to achieve a secure fit
- Material: Ultra-soft, breathable, 100% viscose fabric made from eucalyptus and acacia
- Age Range: 0-12 months, 3.6kgs - 11kgs
- Why We Love It: The Aura Wrap is ideal for newborns, providing a custom, womb-like fit for your baby. It’s also compact enough to fold and store in a nappy bag, making it a convenient choice for on-the-go parents
Choosing the Right Carrier for You and Your Baby
Selecting a baby carrier for your newborn can feel overwhelming, but focusing on comfort, safety, and usability can simplify the process. Ergobaby’s range of carriers offers something for every family, ensuring you and your baby can bond while staying comfortable and supported
4 Best Baby Carriers for Newborns: How to Choose a Newborn Baby Carrier