Start with your baby’s size, how you’ll use it, and what feels good on your body. One good carrier is plenty to begin with.
From our Certified Babywearing Consultants, with 10+ years of hands-on experience.
Picture the carrier you’ll reach for on a Tuesday morning. Find what matters most to you below, then explore the suggested styles.
Before choosing: check the model’s age, weight, size and developmental requirements. “Standard” sizes vary by brand. See fit and sizing.
Use these as starting points. Fit, features and suitable carrying positions vary by model.
A shaped panel, adjustable straps and a buckle waistband.
A straightforward place to start if you prefer adjusting straps to tying fabric. Trying a few designs can help you discover which waistband, shoulder straps and panel shape feel best on you.
One long piece of woven fabric, wrapped and tied around you and your baby.
A rewarding first choice if you enjoy learning a new skill. Start with one carry and build confidence. The wrap length you need depends on your body and the carries you want to learn; our wrap sizing guide can help.
A shorter length of fabric threaded through two rings and worn over one shoulder.
Small enough to keep handy, and quick to adjust once you learn the technique. Some wearers prefer a two-shouldered option for longer carries. Check your sling’s instructions for the positions suitable for your baby’s stage.
A shaped panel and buckle waistband, with shoulder straps you tie.
The panel gives you a starting shape while the ties let you adjust the shoulders to your body. A useful option to explore if you like the feel of wrapping and the convenience of a buckle waistband.
A shaped panel with ties at both the waist and shoulders.
A good option if tying straps feels natural to you. Each wearer adjusts the ties as they put it on, which can make sharing straightforward. Waistband and shoulder-strap designs still vary, so comfort is worth trying for yourself.
A compact, waistless carrier supported through the shoulder straps.
Check your model’s size and developmental requirements before choosing one. For example, the DidyGo back-carry instructions require a child who can sit securely without help. Take time learning to load and adjust your carrier.
Scroll sideways to see every column.
| Carrier | Getting started | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Buckle | Adjust straps and fasten buckles | Different waistband and strap shapes suit different bodies |
| Woven wrap | Learn to wrap, tighten and tie | Highly adjustable; takes practice |
| Ring sling | Learn to thread and tighten the fabric | Packs small; supports weight over one shoulder |
| Half buckle | Buckle the waist and tie the shoulders | Adjustable ties with a shaped body panel |
| Mei tai | Tie the waist and shoulder straps | Easy to adjust between wearers; longer straps to manage |
| Onbuhimo | Learn loading and strap adjustment | No waistband; check the model’s readiness requirements |
Use the manufacturer’s requirements for the specific model and carrying position. A size name alone cannot tell you whether it fits.
Two people can try the same carrier and prefer completely different things.
Not comfortable yet? A small adjustment may help. Ask our consultants for a fit check before deciding a carrier isn’t for you.
Choose a fabric you like and can comfortably care for. Fibre, weave and thickness all affect the feel, so the material name is only part of the story.
Before buying, check the care label. Our care guide can help you find a routine that works for your carrier.
For a young baby carried upright against your chest, use these checks every time. Follow your carrier’s instructions for all positions.
Check your baby often and inspect fabric and fastenings before use. Avoid cooking, hot drinks, running and cycling while babywearing. If your baby falls asleep, move them to a crib, cradle or bassinet.
Ask your baby’s healthcare professional about babywearing, especially for a baby under four months, born prematurely or with a medical condition.
Read Health Canada’s safety guidance and the T.I.C.K.S. guidance from Product Safety Australia. Find your model in our manual directory.
Some can. Woven wraps and some adjustable carriers cover a wide range, but check the specific product’s limits and fit at each stage. A carrier described as suitable for toddlers may still be too large for a newborn.
One good one is plenty to start. You may later enjoy different options for different days, but you don’t need a collection to begin babywearing.
Fit is personal. Ask us for help adjusting it; if it still doesn’t suit you, another design may feel better. Our Try Before You Buy program lets you explore your options before buying.
Try up to 5 carriers at home, with a week for each one and help from our Certified Babywearing Consultants. Free to join in the USA and Canada; you pay postage to send each carrier to the next family.
Love one? Ask us about buying it at your Try Before You Buy price.
