Baby wearing is all the rage, but the wide range of carriers, wraps and slings can easily leave parents baffled. Ergobaby baby carriers are versatile and easy to use, plus they're designed to help babies maintain an ergonomic position that's important for hip health.
Some Ergobaby carriers are better suited to newborns and others to older babies and toddlers. The Ergobaby Omni 360 is a great choice for parents of babies or toddlers, as it's suitable for kids of 7 to 45 pounds.
Ergobaby carriers can accommodate kids in up to four positions, but not all carriers offer all of these positions. There's a slightly different inward-facing configuration for newborns compared to older babies and children, so check the instructions if you're unsure.
These are some of the current popular Ergobaby carrier models.
Look for models with a band around the back to offer decent lumbar support to the wearer. This is especially important as your child grows and gets heavier.
Most Ergobaby carriers are easily adjustable at the waist and the shoulders to accommodate people of different heights and weights.
You can find carriers in a range of basic colors, as well as limited-edition hues and prints.
Some carriers are made from breathable material or have breathable panels. This is great news in the warmer months, when babywearing can become unbearably warm.
Wrap carriers start at around $50, while the most elaborate carriers cost up to $200.
A. This depends on the model. Some are suitable for babies from birth, while others are good for older babies, from around 4 months and over. In some cases, the carrier in its regular configuration is suitable for newborns, while others require a newborn insert (which should come with the carrier).
What's more, even those that are suitable for use from birth have a minimum weight recommendation. So, if your newborn weighs less than 7 pounds, you may need to wait to use your carrier.
A. While babies shouldn't sleep all night in carriers, purely for practical reasons, it's perfectly safe to nap in them. In fact, the close contact between parent and baby helps newborns sleep longer and may reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
Of course, you should always make sure you're monitoring your baby and practicing safe carrier use. Remember the acronym TICKS. This stands for:
What you need to know: With a weight range of 7 to 45 pounds, it sees kids through from the newborn stage well into their toddler years.
What you’ll love: It has cool mesh paneling to help keep you and your baby from overheating. You can wear your baby inward-facing, outward-facing, on the back and on the hip. It's comfortable to wear and easy to adjust.
What you should consider: Some people find it too bulky.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This simple carrier is for babies from birth to 12 months.
What you'll love: It's made from a fabric that's soft and snug, yet breathable. You can use it in inward-facing and outward-facing positions. It's easy to adjust and distributes weight evenly for your comfort.
What you should consider: While it can technically accommodate babies up to 25 pounds, Ergobaby doesn't recommend it for those over 12 months.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: Suitable for babies and toddlers from 7 to 45 pounds, this is a versatile choice.
What you'll love: It comes in a starry sky design. It's suitable for inward carrying, back carrying and hip carrying. It's comfortable to wear, with plenty of padding and support for parents.
What you should consider: Some buyers miss the outward-facing carry option.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
