There are many types of infant carriers and slings on the market, from traditional, simple pieces of fabric to sophisticated backpack carriers with modern features. Picking out the right carrier may be the most difficult part of baby-wearing. Even though some slings and infant carriers are favored by more parents than others, choosing the best one really is a personal decision. The success of a baby carrier depends on how it fits your body size, how well your baby fits into it and whether it fits into your lifestyle. You may want different carriers for different activities. A ring sling may be your choice for wearing around the house, and a soft-structured carrier might be more comfortable on long walks. Learn about some of the most popular types of carriers.
There are many types of infant carriers and slings on the market, from traditional, simple pieces of fabric to sophisticated backpack carriers with modern features. Picking out the right carrier may be the most difficult part of baby-wearing. Even though some slings and infant carriers are favored by more parents than others, choosing the best one really is a personal decision. The success of a baby carrier depends on how it fits your body size, how well your baby fits into it and whether it fits into your lifestyle. You may want different carriers for different activities. A ring sling may be your choice for wearing around the house, and a soft-structured carrier might be more comfortable on long walks. Learn about some of the most popular types of carriers.
Moby Wrap
The Moby is a long piece of fabric that is folded around you and your baby. At first, figuring out how to wrap your baby may seem challenging. There are many ways to wear the Moby, and you’ll soon love the versatility and comfort of a wrap carrier. The Moby allows your baby to be close without extra padding in the way. The wrap fits around your entire back, making the Moby relatively pain-free. The Moby is especially useful for a newborn and can hold babies up to 45 lb. Average price in 2009: $40.
Maya Wrap Ring Sling
The Maya ring sling is made from fairly traded, hand-loomed Guatemalan fabrics. Since the Maya is a ring sling, it’s fully adjustable and can be worn in a variety of positions. Ring slings rest on only one shoulder, and may become uncomfortable when worn for long periods of time with a heavy baby–though it can fit babies up to 35 lb. in weight. The Maya has a long tail that can double as a nursing cover-up, and has a convenient pocket to stash your keys or a cell phone. Available in sizes small to extra large. Average price in 2009: $65.
ERGO Baby Carrier
The ERGO is an ergonomic baby carrier that evenly disperses baby’s weight on your hips and thighs, with virtually no weight straining your shoulders or back. Unlike other baby carriers that suspend baby by the crotch, babies carried in an ERGO actually look comfortable and are sitting in a more natural position. The ERGO can be worn on the back, front or hip. It can hold babies up to 40 lb., though newborns will require an infant insert. The ERGO is fully adjustable and features a sleeping hood. Some styles are made with organic fabric. Average price in 2009: $105 to $135.
Hotslings
A Hotslings pouch is one of the simplest slings for a mom or dad to use. Hotslings fold in half to form a pouch that baby sits in, and is slung around your shoulder. You don’t have to worry about adjusting anything–just make sure you purchase the right size. Hotslings come in a variety of styles of trendy or designer patterns. Some styles are organic. Average price in 2009: $48 to $60.
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