Here are the best slings and carriers based on comfort, safety and ease of use. If you’re looking for the best carrier, these are the favourites.
PRODUCTS
EDITOR’S PICK
- Comfortable and keeps baby in an upright position
- Material is soft and smooth
- Not too hot in the Summer
- Good for newborn babies
BUDGET PICK
- Easy to put on and wear
- Good cost
- Soft and comfortable
- Safe
TOP PICK
- Movement can help with wind
- Comfortable for baby and carrier
- Baby will enjoy being close
- Light material
BUDGET PICK
- Comfortable for both baby and carrier
- Easy to wear
- Great material
- Secure
- Great for bonding
BUDGET PICK
- Fits all sizes
- Lets you do things handsfree
- Baby will love being close to you
- Great quality
Baby Wrap Sling Organic Stretchy Premium Carrier
This sling is excellent to use from birth until they are 16kg. With this sling, you get a matching hat, matching bag, and instructions included, so you definitely get your money worth. It is super-soft and lightweight, making it comfortable for both you and your baby. It is perfect for newborn babies, especially in warmer weather because it is breathable and cool.
Due to the fact there might be spillages on the sling, it is machine washable, so you’re able to throw it in and have it ready for the next wear. Mothers are unlikely to get back and shoulder pain because the weight of the baby is distributed.
Features and Pros
- Comfortable and keeps baby in an upright position
- Material is soft and smooth
- Not too hot in the Summer
- Good for newborn babies
Cons
- Difficult to get on
- Too much elasticity
- Long material
Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Carrier
This excellent carrier has so much to offer with its 4 ways to carry your baby. You’re also able to use this carrier into the older years due to it having a facing out seat. You’ll be able to use this carrier up until your baby is 14.5kg. There is always a chance of milk sillages or dribble getting onto the carrier, but don’t worry too much, this carrier comes with a 2-in-1 bib which will protect your clothes as well!
The seat, leg openings, straps, and waist belt are completely adjustable so you can customise the perfect fit for you. If the bib isn’t enough, you can pop it in the wash ready for the next use.
Features and Pros
- Easy to put on and wear
- Good cost
- Soft and comfortable
- Safe
Cons
- Could pull on wearers shoulders
- Lots of clips which can be confusing
- Uneven stitching on parts
Lictin Baby Wrap Carrier
This carrier is suitable for breastfeeding as it’s adjustable for the most comfort for both mum and baby. Your baby will be held safely and securely with this safe, versatile, and practical carrier. The freedom that this carrier provides is outstanding, and you will be able to go shopping, wash the dishes, walk your dog with a quiet and restful baby. Your baby will remain calm and relaxed as they’ll be close to mum and hear the heartbeat and feel the warmth of her body.
The carrier counteracts the weight between your baby, so you won’t have shoulder pain or back strain. This works by the wrap surrounding your baby’s spine, ensuring they’re comfortable too. If you’ve decided to breastfeed, this wrap gives you the privacy that you require and is easy due to your baby being so close to your chest.
Features and Pros
- Movement can help with wind
- Comfortable for baby and carrier
- Baby will enjoy being close
- Light material
Cons
- Hard to read instructions
- The sling can become loose if not tied properly
- Can't handle long wears
Ergobaby Baby Wrap Carrier
The fabric of this carrier is lightweight, durable, and breathable, allowing you to be comfortable using it in all kinds of weather. You can use it from when your baby is first born until they reach 30lbs. This is an ideal wrap for beginners as it is stretchy and easy to tie due to its guiding edge which also supports your baby in an ergonomic m-shape leg position.
As if that wasn’t enough for you and your baby, this carrier comes with a built-in storage pocket with a handle for carrying.
Features and Pros
- Comfortable for both baby and carrier
- Easy to wear
- Great material
- Great for bonding
Cons
- Style over substance
- Complaints of back pain over period of time
- Not ideal for plus size
9-in-1 CuddleBug Baby Wrap Sling
You might be wondering how a sling can be a 9-in-1. Well, there are 9 different ways to carry your baby with comfort, and better yet, hands-free! These positions include; side sling, kangaroo carry, newborn hold, hip carry, breastfeed sling, cross carry, back carry, front carry and side carry. The options are endless. In every position, your baby will also be secure and comfortable, which will put you at ease too. If there are any spills, which is inevitable, then you’ll be able to put it in the wash.
It is almost as if you’re wearing a t-shirt as it is 95% cotton and 5% spandex and it doesn’t have a buckle or ring. It is easy to use and comes with a single person instruction manual, so you’ll be up and running in no time, even from a car seat. If that wasn’t enough when you purchase this sling, a portion of the money goes to a charity called ‘Long Way Home’ which provides self-sufficient schools for any communities in need.
Features and Pros
- Fits all sizes
- Lets you do things handsfree
- Baby will love being close to you
- Great quality
Cons
- If not put on properly, might unravel
- Long fabric
- Might take two people to put on
Koala Babycare Easy-to-wear Baby Sling
This sling is known to be easy to wear due to the fact it was two adjustable bands which makes it simple. This wrap is most likely going to stay clean as well because the wrap is shorter than other wraps and won’t drop to the ground. This wrap offers endless amounts of comfort by allowing you to unload any weight from your shoulders and lumbar area, and is suited with an ergonomic and breathable backrest. When you buy other traditional baby carriers, you might find that they become frayed and loose after frequent use.
Due to its ring closure, the Koala Babycare won’t do this. If you do need to make any adjustments, then they can be made easily. You will be able to use this carrier from the day your baby comes home due to the cotton fabric, this means you can comfortably have them in the carrier position. If you’ve made the decision to breastfeed, then this carrier is very discreet, giving you the privacy you require.
There is a great guarantee with this carrier, so if it doesn’t meet your needs, you’re able to return it at any time and there is even a promotion if you purchase 2 or more, making it the perfect gift for someone else you might know that has a baby or is pregnant.
Features and Pros
- Less likely to get back and shoulder pain
- Comfortable
- Breathable so good for longer periods of carrying
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some find it difficult to use
- The material might be too stretchy
Boba Wrap Baby Carrier – Vintage
The instructions that come with this wrap carrier are easy to follow so you don’t have to guess how to tie it. Although, this carrier will only take you to the first three months of parenthood, which isn’t necessarily ideal for those who are on a tighter budget. The material is soft and stretchy, as well as machine washable, so if there are any spills, they are easily cleaned. Every single time you tie this wrap, it creates a little seat for your baby, which automatically creates weight distribution for mum and dad.
You will have the privacy that you need with this wrap as it will act as a shield when you’re breastfeeding. It’s also convenient and you don’t have to take your baby out. Once you’ve tied it in the morning, you won’t need to take it off until the evening as one tie and it’ll have you raring and ready to go! With the 5% Spandex and 95% cotton that this wrap is made out of, it doesn’t sag or lose its shape. So, it wraps and stretches around your baby, giving them the best support.
Features and Pros
- Comfortable
- Hands-free
- Suitable for all carriers
- Helps support babies at their hips
Cons
- Too stretchy
- Might need two people to work out
- Expensive
NimNak Baby Carrier Sling
Whether you’re carrying your baby, grandchild, or baby that you care for, this wrap sling is perfect. Its comfort is the best feature as it’s really soft and is a blend of cotton and spandex so it’s gentle to touch. Although, it is also firm enough to ensure that your baby is securely in place. If you’re looking to save money and want something that will last a good while, then this wrap will last until your baby reaches their toddler years; carrying a baby up to 35lbs.
It is even suitable for premature babies, although, you should check with your physician first and get the best advice. There are 4 different ways you can carry your baby, making this wrap sling super versatile. Whether you choose to carry your baby front facing inward, hip carry, front-facing outward or rucksack sling, the NimNik will accommodate. You will potentially gain an even closer bond with your baby as they are comforted by the sound of your heartbeat and feel the warmth of your body as if they were still in the womb.
In whatever way you decide to tie this wrap, your baby will be secure, and it offers you a custom fit every single use. It also accommodates your baby’s growth and your body’s shape, making it that extra bit more comfortable and safe. This wrap carrier comes with a drawstring carrying sack so when it isn’t in use, it can be stored away neatly. The bag is made of the same material, so it can also be machine washed. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, you have a 30-day refund guarantee.
Features and Pros
- Suitable from birth
- Baby can listen to your heartbeat and feel your warmth
- Holds babies up to 35lbs, and is even suitable for premature babies
- Comfortable and handsfree babywearing
- Encourages skin contact
Cons
- Illustrations in the instruction manual aren't clear.
- Can become hot so best to be avoided in warmer climates
- Difficult to swap carriers due to its one size
5 Stars United Baby Carrier Wrap Sling
This carrier is made from high-quality material which is 93% cotton and 7% Lycra. That means that it is very eco friendly as well as safe and soft for your newborn baby. The elastic in these slings can carry babies from 8-35lbs as well as keeping them secure and comfortable. With this sling, you’ll be able to carry your baby in three different positions; kangaroo, hip, or hug. This means that you’ll be hands free and able to do the things you enjoy ding or need to do while your baby sits comfortably.
The 5 Stars United Baby Carrier Wrap Sling has a universal, one size fits all, which means that it would be perfect for every carrier. You’ll be able to use this carrier no matter what the weather. While you’re nursing, it is light and dense enough to allow your baby to breathe as well as protect you. Due to the fact this sling is made from cotton, it keeps the warmth in winter and lets the skin breathe in the summer.
Features and Pros
- Strong material
- Comfortable
- Hands-free
Cons
- Excessively long
- Too stretchy
If you’re planning on using your sling or carrier for breastfeeding, here are 5 tips to support you in your journey of feeding in a baby carrier:
- Always follow the T.I.C.K.S rules for safe baby wearing.
- Get used to wearing the carrier or sling first before you attempt to breastfeed in it. This is to make sure it’s comfortable and safe enough.
- At the beginning of use, tie the sling and place your baby in when you’re sat down. This is to prevent any accidents.
- Check your baby is properly supported by using a mirror before you stand up.
- You should put the baby in the upright position once they have finished feeding and should be close enough to kiss.
Choosing the right sling or carrier for you
Looking for a suitable and comfortable baby sling can be a tiring process, especially when every company says they’ve got the best carrier for your baby. It can even be a struggle to know where to start!
You need to look for the same things you’d look for if you were to choose a pair of shoes. Something that fits good, follows your preference, and, just like shoes, you should try before you buy! You need to ensure that it’s the right one for you and your baby, especially with comfort.
Carriers are perfect because well all know that babies want to be close to their parents, and will take every opportunity to be in their arms. It’s where they’re most comfortable, but sometimes, parents need to be able to do some things around the house with ease.
There could be many questions circling your brain; Which is the best sling? Which is most comfortable? The most effective? There are other things that you should take into consideration before choosing your carrier:
- Who will be using the carrier?
- Your budget.
- The age and weight of your baby, and
- Your lifestyle.
Support
When you decide on the sling or carrier you’d like to use for your baby, you should triple-check that it gives both you and your baby the support you require. It should also be comfortable for others that might be wearing it besides yourself too. When choosing your sling or carrier, it might state that it’s suitable for newborns, but every baby is born at a different weight, so double-check your baby meets the minimum weight requirement. If you are planning on carrying your newborn, then you might realise that the carrier is designed to support their back, head, and developing hips and spine. If you’re getting a sling or carrier for your older baby, then they should be able to sit upright with their air passages clear.
Your baby should be held in the frog-leg position when they’re in the carrier and their knees should be level with or higher than their hips to ensure that they’re comfortable. Your baby’s back should be supported in the natural curved ‘C-shape’ and should be snug enough to support your baby adequately.
Ensure that your baby sling or carrier fits
You need to ensure that your baby is kept safe in a sling or carrier and that it fits your body correctly and comfortably too. All you need to do is to make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and if you’re still unsure, they will most likely have a link to follow onto a Youtube video that will help you further if need be. Practice wearing your sling or carrier a good few times before lacing your baby inside, only so you then become immune to where the fastenings and clips are.
Make sure that you can tick everything off this list.
- Carrier’s back is fully supported so the baby can’t slump forward and restrict their airways.
- Tight for adequate support.
- To ensure breathing isn’t restricted, keep the baby’s chin off their chest.
- Make sure you can see your baby’s face at all times.
- You should be close enough to kiss your baby’s head or forehead.
Do you need a baby carrier?
Once you get a sling, you’ll begin to wonder how you ever coped without it. They’re helpful whether you decide to use it for a few months or continue into toddlerhood.
If you’re looking for a baby sling rather than a carrier, you might find it helpful to know these 5 main types.
Half Buckles.
This is halfway between a full buckle carrier and a meh dai which offers the ease of a clip at the waist and can be adjusted at the shoulders to ensure the perfect fit. You also won’t need to reach around the back or struggle with any side clips. They are most suitable for a newborn and you’re able to carry your baby in three positions: front, hip, and back.
Stretchy Wraps.
These are perfect for newborns and will offer your baby a great transition from womb to world. Stretchy wraps are simply a long piece of fabric that can be wrapped around you before you place your baby in. The great thing about stretchy wraps is that you could put it on in the morning and keep it on through the day in case you need to keep your baby close at any point without messing around.
Meh Dais.
This is a great option whether you’re looking for something for your newborn baby or bigger baby. They have more structure than a wrap but have the same moldability and softness. You can tie it around your waist, and secure it with a knot. There is another pair that you can put around your shoulder and cross it over your back which can then be tied to either your front, back, or side. It is also very adjustable.
Ring Sling
These can be used with newborns and toddlers. If you’re planning on carrying your newborn, then there is a single-layer which is light and can be put on with little fuss. They’re supportive and keep your newborn tucked up close and high. If you have a toddler that tends to be ‘up and down’, then a ring sling is simple and quick. This makes it easy to pop them in and out. Once you’re finished with the ring sling, you can fold it up neatly and small in your bag. There are three carrying options for the ring sling, front, hip, and off-center.
Woven Wraps
You can use a woven wrap for many different carrying options and come top of the list and the most versatile. Just one woven wrap is able to be used from newborns, all the way through the preschool. Whether you decide to carry your child on your hip, front, or back. You can also buy many different designs from self-colours, jacquards, and stripes.
