Carry That Weight:
Baby Carriers
We enlisted the help of new moms and dads to test drive our top five baby carriers.
By Mireille Hyde
- BabyBjörn Synergy
- $130, Amazon.com
comfort
ease of use
WEIGHT: 8 to 26 pounds
This basic front carrier lets your baby face in or out, and is made from lightweight, breathable mesh fabric to keep both you and your baby cool. The front panel provides firm head support for younger babies, and another panel supports the wearer's back.
Testers said: "The straps were easy to adjust, but I found it strange that it couldn't be adjusted to wear lower on my back; it rode up uncomfortably high, like a bra that doesn't fit properly."
- Belle Baby
- $90, Target
comfort
ease of use
WEIGHT: 10 to 25 pounds
This ergonomic carrier is designed to distribute your baby's weight to your hips instead of your back, and comes in a wide variety of organic fabrics. Its narrow straps and minimal design keeps it airy and cool for both you and your baby.
Testers said: "The material feels cozy, and since it's small, it's great for travel. You can even fit it in a diaper bag. But it's not the most comfortable; after only a few minutes, I was feeling it in the shoulders."
- Ergobaby
- $105, Baby Center
comfort
ease of use
WEIGHT: 8 to 40 pounds
An almost unanimous tester favorite, the Ergo can be worn on your front, back, or side, making it the most flexible one of the bunch. With the purchase of an Infant Insert, it can grow with your baby from infancy well into toddlerhood.
Testers said: "I love this carrier, and my son loves being in it. Sometimes if he's crying and I can't figure out why, I put him in the Ergo and he goes right to sleep."
- Phil & Ted Lascal M1
- $130, Amazon.com
comfort
ease of use
WEIGHT: 8 to 30 pounds
The Lascal M1 boasts a well-padded harness and ventilated lumbar support, as well as built-in back support for your baby's developing spine. The width and seat height are adjustable in order to let the carrier grow with your child.
Testers said: "This had more back support than my Björn, and my husband and I could both easily adjust it to our frames. The weight distribution was really well balanced between my hips, back, and belly."
- Quinny Curbb
- $80, Amazon.com
comfort
ease of use
WEIGHT: 8 to 20 pounds
Comfort:
Ease of use:
Weight: 8 to 20 poundsThis sturdy side carrier provides solid back support and affords the wearer a lot of freedom. The messenger-style shoulder strap and the Velcro waistband make for especially easy adjustments, in case couples are sharing.
Testers said: "It was very comfortable. It takes a while to get used carrying him on your side with your hands free—part of me kept wanting to keep a hand on him. But after a while I realized I didn't have to."
- Keywords:
- baby carrier,
- baby gear,
- baby products,
- new mom,
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