Types of baby carrier

There are many different baby carriers and slings available, with something suitable for every parent’s style. This guide will help you find a carrier to suit you. 

Babywearing is a new skill that may require a little time, practice and often a little help to master, but other parents are always available online and locally to assist. See Slingmeet.co.uk  

Most of the carriers listed here can do a range of different positions and ages – front, back, hip and newborn to 3 or 4 years. 

Success with using them comes down to personal preference, body shape and a little perseverance or help. 

Pouch

A pouch is a tube of material worn over one shoulder to create a pocket for baby to lie or sit in. Great for new parents and newborns because of their simplicity, but less adjustable. 

• easy to use
• limited adjustability
• custom fit – pouch needs to fit you, so probably won’t fit both parents
• less comfortable for longer periods or with a heavier child

Some pouches are non-adjustable, others have zips or poppers to give more adjustability. 

Ring sling

A ring sling is a rectangle of material with rings sewn in at one end. Worn over one shoulder it forms a pouch in which baby lies or sits and is adjusted using the rings. 

• versatile
• very adjustable for exact fit so can be used by different sized adults
• some learning curve for adjusting using the rings
• may be less comfortable for longer periods or with a heavier child

Padded ring slings may be easier to learn, but an unpadded ring sling allows for greater adjustability and more versatility.  

Wrap

A wrap is a rectangle of material, wrapped around you and baby and tied. Wraps come in a variety of widths and lengths, and are usually worn over both shoulders 

• versatile – front, back and hip carries
• comfortable for long periods and heavier babies or toddlers
•  very adjustable for exact fit and can be used by different sized adults
•  more of a learning curve than some carriers

 Stretchy wraps are easier with a newborn, whereas woven wraps are more supportive for a heavier child. 

 

Asian baby carrier and soft structured carrier

An asian baby carrier (ABC) is a soft carrier with a rectangular body and straps, fastened by tying or buckles. A structured soft carriers has buckles and more padding.  

• easy to learn
• comfortable for long periods or with a heavier child
•  one size can be used by different sized adults
•  great for back carries
•  more suitable for babies with good head control

The mei-tai  is the most common ABC, with four straps and ties around the waist. 

Framed carriers

A framed carrier has a structured metal or padded frame like a rucksack, padded shoulder straps and a waist belt.

• suitable for 6 months+
• back carries only
• may incorporate storage space
• needs to fit well to carry weight evenly

A framed carrier needs to fit well in the same way as a well-fitted rucksack. Some models hold baby away from your body, making child seem heavier and affecting your balance. But a well fitted one can be very comfortable for long periods, with a heavy baby.

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