Best baby carriers

Many parents say that a baby carrier is a lifesaver when their child is small. For one thing, newborn babies are often lulled to sleep in them. Cradled against your chest and taking in your warmth, familiar smell, and heartbeat, newborns may stop fussing and fall asleep instead. (Though, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep recommendations,Opens a new window move your baby to sleep on their back on a firm sleep surface if they fall asleep in a baby carrier.)

Later on, baby carriers prop curious infants up safely so they can get a view of their surroundings and interact with caregivers and others at eye-level, while parents enjoy comfortable closeness. Not to mention, it can give parents arms a much-needed break and free up their hands for other tasks.

Although some babies may fuss when first put in the carrier, Jay McMillin, a certified lactation educator and baby carrying educator for Modern Babywearing,Opens a new window says that may be a result of user error rather than a sign baby doesn't like it.

"Babies like being carried if the carrier is comfortable and used right," says McMillin. "They feel secure and like being near their caregiver."

You may find that your fussy baby is only calm when held against your chest. Unfortunately, you probably have a laundry list of things to get done. But when done safely and correctly, baby wearing can allow you to comfort your baby while freeing up your hands to fold laundry, wash dishes, or even read a book. Of course, some parents aren't physically able to wear carriers or prefer to carry their child around a different way. Similarly, not every baby likes being carried.

That said, many parents love wearing their children for at least some amount of time, particularly if it impacts their baby's mood for the better. Even parents who don't wear their babies habitually may appreciate having a carrier on hand since they’re lightweight and easy to bring along, unlike a stroller or wagon.

And even better: Baby carriers don't take up much space. They can be stored in your trunk, tucked into your stroller basket, hung in the closet, or folded away in a drawer. That's a lot of payoff for a piece of baby gear that can be bought inexpensively and used for multiple children.

There are two main types of baby carriers: a wrap, which is one large piece of fabric that you wrap and tie around you; and a structured carrier that has straps, buckles, and/or clips to keep your child secured. There are also hybrid versions of these carriers, with parts that strap and parts that wrap.

Not every carrier is suitable for every baby or parent, but there are so many different kinds that it's likely you can find just the right one to make your life easier. Here's more information on each kind.

Many parents start out using a stretchy wrap for newborns, then move to a woven wrap or structured carrier when their baby is older. But McMillin says that newborns don't seem to have much of a preference and can be carried comfortably in any carrier rated for a newborn. Feel free to choose the carrier you like as long as it's safe for a baby your baby's age, height, weight, and development.

Whatever type you choose, you’ll want to make sure your baby's airflow is not restricted. (See the end of this article for more on ensuring your baby is safe in the carrier.)

Jay McMillin also says that parents should be able to put on their baby carrier with no help. "If you can't put it on by yourself and don't have mobility challenges, you should find another carrier," McMillin says.

You’ll want to keep these things in mind when looking for your baby carrier.

Leah Alexander, MD,Opens a new window pediatrician and consultant for pregnancy and parenting site Mom Loves Best, notes that there are two safety concerns linked with wearable baby carriers: What the parent or caregiver is doing while carrying their baby, and how carriers are manufactured. For the first matter, Dr. Alexander says that some activities should be avoided altogether when carrying their baby.

"These carriers should not be worn while cooking or holding hot beverages to prevent burn injuries," says Dr. Alexander. "Because many wearable carrier injuries occur when the parent or caregiver falls, navigating stairs, icy sidewalks, and uneven surfaces with a baby is risky. Although limb fractures are possible, head injuries are more common." For the second concern, McMillin and Dr. Alexander say carriers should comply with the Consumer Product Safety CommissionOpens a new window (CPSC), which requires that children's products for sale in the United States meet standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The ASTM's standards for soft infant and toddler carriersOpens a new window and for sling carriersOpens a new window say that fabric, straps, and fasteners must be sturdy enough to carry weight safely, ensure that lead and phthalate content is within limits, and so on.

Figuring out if a particular wrap meets these standards is not as easy as it sounds, however. Though the CPSC does require labels with particular informationOpens a new window on children's products, there's no requirement to list ASTM testing. So there's no particular label, seal, product packaging note, or other standard notice to indicate the carrier passes ASTM standards. According to representatives from the CPSC, consumers should contact manufacturers to make sure that carriers meet standards.

That's one heck of a burden for consumers, so we ensured each of the carriers on this list meet the relevant ASTM standards (ASTM F2236 for soft structured carriers and ASTM F2907 for slings). Some manufacturers made it easy (see the five-star info about TwinGo's testing processOpens a new window), others disclosed information in unexpected places (there's info about the Infantino Flip's ASTM compliance Opens a new windowin its manual), and others had to be contacted by phone or over email.

The best baby carrier is the one that's comfortable for you and for your baby, easy to put on, easy to adjust when necessary, and distributes weight effectively. Learning what carrier works for you is a bit of a trial-and-error process. Ideally you’d test the baby carrier in person before purchasing. But given time and location constraints, word-of-mouth guidance from other parents who've worn the carriers is crucial.

Here's how BabyCenter determined the baby carriers that should appear this list:

How did this super-affordable soft-structured baby carrier best better-known competitors three times the Flip's price? By providing many of the bells and whistles of more expensive carriers. Chief amongst its many features are the adjustment options, especially the pair of flaps that you can fold in to make a more narrow seat for an infant, then fasten out to widen for an older baby. McMillin is a fan of these types of adjustment options because, "they can help parents comfortably carry their babies for a longer period of time by giving babies more support as they get heavier."

There are adjustment options for parents: the padded backpack-style straps can be lengthened or shortened for different bodies, while the waistband can be cinched or let out to fit waists from 24 to 49 inches. The Flip allows four carrying styles and can be used for newborns starting at 8 pounds — no insert needed. And get this: When it gets dirty, you can throw the whole carrier in the washing machine.

The Flip is also a Best of BabyCenter Award winner, earning 26 percent of 725 parent votes for Best baby carrier. "It is wonderful! It calms my baby and puts him to sleep!" says one voter, while another says "It's easy to use and…my son loves being in there no matter what we’re doing."

Although the Flip is a great option for the price, many parents report that it isn't comfortable when worn for extended periods of time. If you plan on using a baby carrier for more than short bursts of time (say, if you're planning on doing some serious walking or traveling), it may be worth purchasing a more supportive carrier.

"I have the Infantino and a Moby Wrap! I love both and am glad I opted for the $40 Infantino over the pricier carrier I originally wanted. It's super lightweight and my fiance and I both wear it comfortably."

"If I'm in it long enough my shoulders hurt, but it isn't so bad. I like how it fits my baby – and she loves it."

"I'm happy with it. And my baby is happy with it. I got the Moby first and returned it."

"That's the only carrier my daughter likes! She falls asleep immediately in it. We also have a Moby Wrap and Ergo and she screams the moment I put her in the other carriers. I’m starting to find my back hurting after long periods of time now but it's her preference."

The Ergobaby Omni 360 is the gold standard when it comes to supportive baby carriers. It's unlikely to cause back strain, given its padded lumbar back support and cushioned shoulder straps that can be worn straight up and down or crossed, which McMillin says is more ergonomic and comfortable. Not to mention it can make it easier to put the carrier on, too.

Additionally, the Omni 360 works from seven pounds — no newborn insert needed — and allows you to carry your child four different ways.

The Omni's waistband extends to 55 inches, and the carrier comes with a large storage pouch and UPF 50+ baby hood for sun protection or privacy. It's even machine-washable. Parents voted it their second-favorite structured baby carrier in the Best of BabyCenter Awards and called it "easy to use," "ergonomic and safe," and "much more versatile than other carriers."

Our editors love the Omni too. Christine Mattheis, Editorial Director for BabyCenter's sister site What to Expect, says it was the go-to for her and her husband from the time her daughter, Rose, was born, until she was a toddler. "The buckle-and-strap system is very easy to adjust on your own, no help from a partner required," she says. "The carrier fit both of us very well, even though he's much taller than I am (I'm about 5'7" and he's 6'3"). I also liked that the Ergobaby has a waist strap, which helped relieve some pressure from my achy lower back."

Olivia DeLong, BabyCenter's Senior Health Editor, also used the Omni 360 to carry her daughter. "We loved it and actually used it into toddlerhood," she says, calling it super supportive, and noting that it made travel and outings easier because there was no bulky stroller to push. "Just a great way to bond and be near her but not have to lug something extra around," she says.

The carrier comes in an all-cotton version and a polyester mesh for cooler ventilation. The 360 is machine-washable, but can only go in the dryer until damp, then it must be hung.

"Love my Ergobaby Omni 360. I have an Ergo wrap style carrier as well and I just feel like it is too difficult to get on and my baby into whereas the Omni 360 is so easy I can do it myself and my baby loves it."

"We have the Ergobaby Omni 360 and love it. No infant insert needed and grows with your baby. We used a wrap when she was a peanut but now prefer the Omni."

Specs

The Solly Baby Wrap gets our nod for best baby wrap for a few reasons. First, it's super soft, making it an ideal addition to your postpartum wardrobe and a cozy place for your baby to snuggle. It's a one-size-fits-most carrier that works for petite to plus-size parents. The wrap is made of tencel modal (i.e. beechwood fibers), so it's extremely soft and stretchy, yet firm and supportive enough to keep your baby's weight more comfortably distributed. Parents say that it's lighter weight than other baby wraps, and won't make you as sweaty.

This carrier is designed to be used for the first year of life, so if you love baby wearing you’ll likely need a second carrier more appropriate for the toddler years.

"I love the Solly way more than the Moby wrap. Not as thick and bulky and way less fabric to have to manage!"

"I used a Solly with my first and I will with my second! I am around a size 16 and I feel like there was plenty of extra material to tie up."

"I tried the K'tan first and hated it! I switched to the Solly, and even though it took a little more effort getting it on, I felt like it was easier to use. ETA: Solly fabric is absolutely softer, and not as hot, and I even had the ‘breathable’ K'tan and felt like it was still too hot."

Made of 95 percent cotton and 5 percent spandex, the Boba has just enough stretch to securely hold your baby close while being comfortable and light for you. It's endlessly adjustable and fits babies and parents of all sizes. We love Boba's library of videos and step-by-step tutorials; we also like that the Boba is available in a rainbow of colors and patterns, all machine-washable and dryer-safe.

Although the Boba can hold babies up to 35 pounds, it's only lightly supportive (think "bralette" instead of "underwire bra"). Many parents find it more practical to use this wrap during the early months, when their little ones are lighter.

"I've used a Boba wrap for all five of my children. I absolutely love it and can't imagine how I would have survived without one. My Boba has been with me through family vacations, train travel, and just making dinners in my kitchen. It's super simple to use, and after watching one video I was wrapping like a pro."

"It's great for long periods of time and feels very secure. The only drawback is the fabric is so long it drags on the ground while I'm wrapping myself up."

"I love it. We go for walks, do short workouts, and I can actually do the dishes with him in the Boba. He loves it too: He faces out sometimes when we go for walks, but most of the time he just naps. My only issue is that I use it from wake-up to bedtime, so I have a hard time finding a time to wash it. I'm planning to get a second Boba so we can rotate."

Attention all adventurous families: The Deuter Kid Comfort Carrier is the backpack carrier to rule them all. Made with a sturdy metal frame that helps to evenly distribute your child's weight onto the ergonomically designed hip straps, it's comfortable for you and comfortable for your child. With multiple adjustment options, it's designed to be size-inclusive and easy to swap between different sized parents. As a bonus, you can carry additional gear on your back in the big storage pockets, and it comes with a removable chin pad and detachable sun and rain roof for your child.

This carrier is by far the most expensive option on the list. It's made to last not only the test of time, but also the elements and be comfortable for long hikes and wilderness adventures. Parents who purchased this carrier say it's worth every penny.

"I love mine. Super adjustable, fits me and DH, optional sun/rain shield, comfy, can actually BACKPACK with it!"

"For hiking at an older age, we prefer our Deuter Kid Comfort Backpack. A front carrier would be too hot for a good hike in the summer with a backpack on as well. The Deuter has some storage space — probably not enough if you are carrying your own sleeping bag, pad, etc, but you could carry food, clothes, or other small items."

With a waistband that can extend from 27 inches to 57 inches and adjustable thickly-padded shoulder straps, the Tula Explore is a carrier that's comfy and sturdy on all kinds of bodies. We love the innovative snap-and-loop system that changes the carrier's seat from safely narrow to newborns, to wider for babies 3 to 9 months, then wider still at 9 months and up to support bigger baby hips and legs. And unlike flimsier wrap-style carriers, the stout Tula gives your body enough support to carry your baby for as long as you (and they) like, to toddler age and beyond. The Explore is also available in a variety of fabrics and patterns — 170 in all — so you can absolutely find a style that electrifies you.

Jay McMillin warns that this carrier doesn't allow the wearer to cross the straps, so if that option is important to you, you may want to choose a competitor like the Ergobaby Omni 360 or the Lillebaby Complete.

"I wear a 20/22 when not pregnant. I found that Buy Buy Baby was a godsend because you can try on the various carriers. It was a little frustrating because the only one that really fit me was one of the most expensive options (the Baby Tula Explore) but since I have to walk my dog 4-5 times a day I figured I’d get a lot of use out of it wearing my daughter on our walks."

"I have a tall baby (always have!) But can comfortably wear [the Explore] since these carriers are built to handle toddlers as well."

"I have a Tula Explore and a Lillebaby and I think the Tula is more comfortable. The Lillebaby feels bulky to me."

"My baby girl is in the 98th percentile for weight and 99th for height and I am still able to use it. It doesn't cause strain on my back either. Not to mention the designs/patterns are so cute."

Ideal for those early months when you want your baby close but don't have the mental energy to learn how to wrap. The BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Mini is easily fastened with clips, and it's equally straightforward to unfasten and lift out a sleeping baby. The Mini comes in three different fabrics: polyester mesh for breathable comfort in warm conditions, knit jersey made from a polyester/cotton/elastane blend that's super-soft, and light, soft satin-woven cotton.

This carrier really is best for the newborn stage, and doesn't have the back support needed to carry toddlers and up.

"I found most carriers to be really bulky; this is so much slimmer and comfier especially for around the house."

"It's a little easier to get on by yourself than a wrap if you are home alone. Also holds a newborn well and fits my husband with good straps and back support."

"I have a wrap too but felt more secure in the BabyBjorn."

Specs

With its nicely padded shoulder straps and a thick waistband with a lumbar support panel, the Lillebaby resembles the Ergo, but at a lower price. One distinguishing feature is the zip-down front, which lets you fold down the thicker outer fabric to reveal a breathable mesh inner layer (This way your baby can stay snuggled against you even in warmer climates without overheating). We love the big storage pocket, removable sunshade, and the adjustable seat that changes from narrow to wide for growing babies. No infant insert is needed for newborns, either.

Heads up

Some parents say this carrier's inner mesh layer or the folds in the seat rubbed their baby the wrong way – literally – and chafed their baby's delicate skin.

Parents say

"I love my Lillebaby! Both my husband and I can use it. (I'm 5 foot 2 and 150 pounds, and my hubby is 6 feet and 220 pounds.) I can also quickly change it to fit either my 15-month-old or my 3-year-old."

"There are a ton of patterns and styles of this carrier, and I like that it has an extra back support piece to help with longer wear times."

"This carrier saved my life with my second, and I'll use it again this time around. It's the only one out of six different carriers I tried that didn't hurt my back and shoulders after 5 or 10 minutes. I highly recommend."

"I love my Lillebaby and its extra support pad. It's the best."

Specs

Twin parenting is a whole new level of juggling, and carrying two babies is possible with the Twingo. This ergonomic carrier evenly distributes the weight of two babies on the parents’ hips — not their shoulders — with their innovative waistband. If you have two caregivers and would prefer to each wear one baby, you can unclip the carrier's front and back section, add the included shoulder strap on each side, and use each as a front carrier for a baby.

It is a bit tricky at first to figure out how to get the both babies on safely. We suggest following their video instructions on their website and having a spotter the first few times you try it.

"I use mine constantly. I prefer to only wear one, but frequently wear both. Sometimes it's the only way they will nap when out and about. I live in the city, without a car, so the pockets are a big deal to me. I use them as a diaper bag."

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers the following safety advice for parents who want to use a baby carrier.

And, again, if your child falls asleep while in the baby carrier, you should move them to a firm sleep surface and lie them on their back as soon as possible.

How long can you use a baby carrier?

Some carriers are designed for the early months and don't distribute heavier weights very well. Others are intended for toddlers (and even 3- and 4-year-olds) and can handle more, thanks to ergonomic pads and straps designed to shift the weight of your child onto your hips and off your shoulders and back. If you want a long-lasting carrier, choose one designed to grow with your little one.

That said, many children prefer a stroller or walking by age 2 or 3, so you may not need a carrier built for toddlers and up. But all other things being equal, if you have a carrier that can handle more weight, you have an alternative for a longer time if your child wants to be carried or you wish to carry them. Rest assured that if you’re comfortable doing it, you can carry your child until they reach maximum weight or height for your carrier, whichever comes first.

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies.

[AAP] 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics. "Baby Carriers: Backpacks, Front Packs, and Slings." https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Baby-Carriers.aspx [Accessed October 2022]

[AAP] 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics. "How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained." https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx [Accessed October 2022]