Parenthoodbliss selects the best products based on real-life testing conducted by our staff, members of our user community, the contributors, as well as through research and feedback by experts; here’s more about our product review process. The details and prices are accurate as per the publishing date and we may earn commissions through the shopping links on this blog.
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If we were to rank baby products, it would be no wonder that baby carriers would come on top of every parent’s bucket list. Why so, one might ask? Well, the reason for a baby carrier to receive so much love is its user-friendliness, feeling, and utility.
There are baby products out there to hold your baby, some examples are baby swings, rockers, wraps, ring slings, etc. However, babies love to be around their parents or loved ones, they crave closeness and being dynamic rather than static. The best way to give your baby this experience is to hold them in your hands, however, to do this without you having to tire out your arms or keep your work pending is to use a “baby carrier!”
Regardless of the brand they use, parents are often heard saying they love their baby carrier. As a baby carrier enables you to keep your baby close to you all time, you can be tension-free and don’t need to check on them frequently and can hence avoid a million trips from the kitchen to your bedroom.
These baby carriers need to be purchased according to your usage policy. Some parents like to use the best baby carrier from infancy through 6 months old. Then some parents use the baby carrier well after this and until the baby becomes a toddler. In our opinion, the ideal time to ditch the baby carrier is when your baby actively starts walking, even then this product can come in handy at airports and other crowded areas.
The products mentioned here being of very high quality can enable you to use them even after your baby learns to walk, or if they gain a few healthy pounds.
What are The Different Types of Baby Carriers?
If you are still musing over all the wide options and brands, try breaking them down by their type. Maybe a certain type of carrier will suit you the best. Your preferences might even change as your little one grows older. We have curated a list of all the types of carriers out there to help you out:
- Soft wrap: This is a long piece of stretchy cloth that you can tie around your body with your baby in it.
- Woven wrap: This is a non-stretchy piece of cloth that works in a similar fashion as the soft wrap.
- Ring sling: It’s basically a wrap but with a ring that allows you to adjust the tightness of the wrap easily.
- Mei Tai or meh dai: This is an Asian-inspired baby carrier made of a panel of fabric around the baby. Its two padded, wide straps go around your waist while the other two go around your shoulders.
- Soft structured carrier: This carrier comes with adjustable belts and padded shoulder straps that can be used for infants as well as toddlers.
- Structured carrier: This is a baby carrier with an aluminum frame (suitable for long trips or hikes).
That covers almost all the essentials about baby carriers, now let us move on to the fantastic list that we have compiled for you.
1. Solly Baby Babylist + Solly Baby Collaboration Wrap ($69): Best Baby Wrap Carrier
This is a wrap type baby carrier. What makes this baby carrier so comfortable you might ask, well it has a design which fits all parents quite comfortably indeed with a soft sustainable fabric. Additionally, it makes it a very lightweight option for a baby carrier.
There is no compromise in its make and material as it is a product from the USA and the material is sourced from Austrian Beechwood Trees. To give this best baby carrier its colors, very environment and human-friendly dyes are used. All-in-all this is a product that has been designed and manufactured while keeping in mind every aspect of health, comfort, and safety while upholding the commitment to our environment.
The awesome feature of this product, however, is the compact nature it offers, thanks to its fabric make. This baby carrier can be easily folded and carried around in your diaper bag. Whenever you feel like using the baby carrier, simply unfold it and wrap it around you and put your little angel close to you.
This product comes with a single carry option of front-inward. This is a sturdy product that can easily manage up to 25 pounds, however, most parents like to use this product while their babies are quite young, as the babies grow, the parents like to switch to a more supportive baby carrier with more weight-bearing capacity.
Product Specifications:
- Suitable for newborns to babies up to 25 pounds.
- A single position of front-inward.
Amazon Reviews
Grace – The idea is great but after trying consistently (20+ times), this is not comfortable and either it’s not tight enough so baby’s back isn’t flat, or when it’s tight enough it’s super uncomfortable. Contacted the company to ask for help and they basically told me to watch the video (which I have quite a few times). When I asked additional questions there was no response. The idea is cool, the tying steps are easy to follow, and I love wearing my baby but this just doesn’t work right and customer service wasn’t great.
2. WildBird Wildbird x Babylist Linen Ring Sling ($89.95): Best Baby Carrier Ring Sling
WildBird Wildbird x Babylist Linen Ring Sling as its name suggests is a ring sling-type baby carrier. This best baby carrier offers form and function in a beautiful package. This is one stylish baby carrier that is certainly an eye-catcher.
The linen-fabric which is hand-sewn is of heirloom quality. The design of this baby carrier enables it to be adjusted in several ways making it a very versatile product.
Ring sling-type baby carriers are a popular choice among parents thanks to its design which makes it very much adjustable, easy to use on any body shape, and comfortable. The WildBird Wildbird x Babylist Linen Ring Sling is really stylish as well.
Moving on to the make and material of this product, we can see how premium quality Belgian linen is used with low-impact, all-natural environmentally friendly dyes. This is a baby carrier that gets softer after each wash.
This baby carrier comes in 2 sizes with 4 wearable configurations. The standard size which is 74 inches is plenty for most parents, the long size which is 90 inches is ideal for plus-size wearers or parents over 6’ tall.
While opting for a ring sling baby carrier like the WildBird Wildbird x Babylist Linen Ring Sling there is a need for familiarising with its wearing mechanism, however, this is no problem as Wildbird offers a lot of tutorial videos on each style of wearing.
Product Specifications:
- This product has a weight limit which allows newborns to 35 pounds.
- Available positions include a front, hip, or back
Amazon Reviews
Jenna a. – I use this with our son nonstop. We have the solly baby and ergo baby too, but this is the one I always throw in the diaper bag to have with me just in case. Comfortable and supportive for walking around, too! I like the solly baby for around the house but it’s not the most supportive for baby when you’re out and about. Watched all the tutorial videos on their website to get started and now it’s second nature, baby and I both love it.
3. Boba Wrap Classic Baby Carrier ($39.95): Best Baby Wrap Carrier
It is made out of a single large fabric piece and the material used being 5% spandex provides your baby with a snug and secure feeling. However, this best baby carrier comes only in one usable position, and that is front-inward. The spandex makes this baby carrier a very comfy place for newborns as they love skin-to-skin contact. Do not even for a moment think that the fabric made of this baby carrier leaves it feeble, this baby carrier can grow with your baby until your baby is 35 pounds.
One-piece fabrics have a problem of getting warm really quickly and that can be a discomfort for your baby in warmer climates. Also, wearing this type of single-fabric wrap-style baby carrier can be quite tricky, a video tutorial might come in handy in situations like this.
Product Specifications:
- Can easily hold newborns and babies up to 35 pounds.
- Only available in a single position of front-inward.
Amazon Reviews
I have tried 3 carriers, one being the lilly baby. This carrier is fantastic. It is stretchie, breathable, and lightweight. My 3 month old wants to be held and carried around when she’s awake. This carrier makes that so much easier. I have 2 older children and having my hands free to do things for them makes everything easier. Today I put it on and put her in it and she did not fuss. It was easy to figure out from watching the tutorials. I am on the larger size body and breast. I am a good 60 inch in the chest and maybe more now that I’m breastfeeding and I had plenty of wrap. My weight last I checked was 230 and I wear a size 3x. I reccomend this product for anyone that needs it.
– MomBoss
To start out, the wrap we bought from Amazon did not make it to our house. The box was sent, not in an Amazon box, but in the product box itself and it was not taped shut. The wrap must have fallen out in transit and Amazon did refund us and I bought it at a physical store. I still want to leave a review as the wrap has been SO helpful.
Once my baby turned 6 months, he became a Velcro baby. The other wrap we bought had gone through the wash and shrunk and it was no longer usable. We had bought a more structured but still soft carrier by Bobby that worked great when he was 2-3 months but because of the structure, it was not comfortable and felt very tight. A friend who has a BIG baby was using the Boba so I gave it a try.
SUPER comfy and the right about of stretch and support. I do not feel hot while wearing it, which is a bonus as I live in the very hot south. My baby was 32in and 25lbs at 8 months and I felt like he was safe and supported as well as I was comfortable and my back wasn’t killing me at all.
This was perfect for those fussy times where I couldn’t put baby down and he needed comfort.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
4. Baby K'Tan Baby Carrier ($55.95): Best Baby Pre-wrap Carrier
Want all the benefits of a wrap-type baby carrier without any of the hassles? Your obvious choice is Baby K’Tan Baby Carrier. This best baby carrier is made out of 100% cotton with a bit of stretch added to it. Whatever the carrying position maybe, the double-loop design evenly distributes weight across your shoulders and back takes the uneven weight off your body, and spreads it evenly across your shoulders and around your back. Even though this is a wrap-style baby carrier, this product can be easily worn like a t-shirt in 3 simple steps. A sash is included as an extra on this baby carrier and it doubles out as a storage space.
The size range product is from 0-24, which means you will definitely find a product that suits your body style. However, the material is known to stretch a little bit after use, however, it retracts to its original size after a wash, so if you want that snug fit, the best advice is to go one size down from your regular size. The snug fit according to one’s size comes with a downside that your caregiver unless having your exact body size and shape cannot use this product easily.
Product Specifications:
- Comes with a weight limit of 35 pounds.
- 3 available positions to hold the baby, front-inward, front-outward, hip-carry.
Amazon Reviews
I love this! I’m can’t wait until my baby is born to use it. I tried it with my 10 month old and it’s great for her too! I’ve had a scarf type wrap for years. I didn’t like that it took forever to put on and the baby never felt secure enough. I don’t have these problems with my baby K’tan! The fabric and pattern are wonderful too. I’m so happy that I purchased this.
When it arrived the fabric was a little rough so I threw it in the wash. I got the blue Jean color. It’s a bit softer but it’s not super soft and as soft as I’d like. The bag doubles as a tie around your waist but I don’t use it. I think it’s fine without the added security. It’s been great for the first couple months but now that my baby can sleep more on his own and is bigger I’m not using it as much and I don’t see myself using it as he gets older and bigger but maybe I will more when I go back to work and have less time to do everything.
When I ordered and was using it about 6 weeks after birth it fit perfect. I was 155 lbs, 5’6”, and baby was 10 lbs. I ordered a small. I wasn’t sure I ordered the right size but it says it fits snug. That is great to help keep a newborn in and support him but now that he’s bigger -12 lbs – it’s almost too snug (although I’m now 151 lbs). I’d feel better about it being snug and put him forward facing but he doesn’t have head support yet. I think it would stretch out if I used it more and if I tried to stretch it. A medium might not have been too bad though but I’m not sure. I’m still super happy I got it and will use it for the next kid if I don’t use it much again for this one. When you and baby need sleep, it’s worth all the 💰to find things that work. If you are looking at wraps I’d suggest this one over a long fabric wrap any day. If you are looking at carriers in general, I’d say think about your needs and what you will be doing most in it.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
5. Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini ($99.99): Best Baby Carrier for Newborn
If you are looking for a rather simple, easy-to-use, quick-to-assemble, and comfortable option as your baby carrier, then Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini is your obvious choice. It is the ease of use that makes Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini stand apart. This is the best baby carrier for newborns; you just need to buckle up and you are set for your outing. The product is so easy and comfortable that you can take out or put a sleeping baby into the baby’s carrier without waking him/her. Once you are done with your baby carrier, Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini is easy to store in your diaper bag, backpack, or stroller basket.
The shelf life of Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini will disappoint you as your baby will outgrow Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini soon rendering the product not fit to use comfortably anymore. Also, the missing waistband can cause stress on the shoulders and back if used for longer periods.
Product Specifications:
- Ideal for newborns to 12-month-old babies and can withstand up to 24 pounds
- Available positions include front-inward and front-outward
Amazon Reviews
TDLR: extremely easy to us for parents and comfortable for baby. Fantastic price point. Get it!!
I’ve tried all types of wraps and carriers for my little one between the newborn months and 3 months of age.
It was difficult finding ones that I could quickly and easily put on all by myself, and were comfortable for my baby.
The ergo baby Omni breeze was alright, but too structured and my baby hated it. Sling, linen wraps didn’t offer enough support without tight adjustments. The Solly Baby wrap has been amazing and then I found this
It is amazing. Extremely easy for me to put on and adjust by myself. Extremely comfortable for my baby. Offers adequate neck support. Now that my baby is big enough to front-face, he can sit with arms out or in the arm holes.
The only tough part is adjusting the bottom, BUT it’s also equally secure so the fabric doesn’t just adjust itself as you move, or with weight of the baby.
All in all, this is a fantastic carrier for a very great price, given that it’s extremely user friendly, baby friendly, and parent friendly.
Love, love, love it
The material is so soft and comfortable my baby often will doze off. In the early stages she always wanted to be held it allowed me to get some chores done around the house. I tried the moby wrap and while that is comfortable it is time consuming to put on. With me pumping so frequently at the start it was just inconvenient.
The best part is this carrier is the ease of putting it on and taking it off. No fumbling twisting the carrier around to buckle. It is easily adjustable by pulling on the shoulder tabs. I also love the design for the buckles for the infants head support as I don’t have to worry about accidentally pinching her. With traditional buckles like what the infentino carrier has I often worry about pinching her when I put her in.
I know this is a pricey carrier but it is so worth it. I am going to be sad when she outgrows it.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
6. Happy! Original Baby Carrier ($155): Best Travel Baby Carrier
For a lightweight and environment-friendly option for a baby carrier, this product is your obvious choice then. Being made out of linen this product compared to the competition weighs around 30-35% lighter. There are many fewer issues in the heating department no matter how easily you sweat all thanks to the linen make. This product is easy to adjust and fit and is comfortable. However, a reported downside to this baby carrier is that holding heavier babies can become tiresome in this particular product.
Product Specifications:
- Weight limit of 45 pounds
- Front-inward and back positions are available to use
7. Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier ($149): Best Long-lasting Baby Carrier
If you are ready to settle for a heavier but more versatile and comfortable baby carrier, this is the choice for you. The main advantage of this baby carrier is its shelf life that will last till your baby’s toddler age. Padding and available adjustments are in plenty and you can hold your sweet one in 4 different ways.
Product Specifications:
- Can carry newborns to babies weighing 25 pounds.
- Front-inward, front-outward, hip, and back are the 4 positions that you can hold your baby in.
Amazon Reviews
I used to have a knock off strap carrier that I bought from target that would hurt my shoulders and offered no back support. I used this new carrier and it offers AMAZING back support and I don’t even feel the weight of my baby who is around 15 pounds. 🙂 Really happy about this purchase and hoping for it to last me until he’s older! The quality is very nicely made and sturdy and worth the price for all the benefits.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
8. Infantino 4-in-1 Flip Convertible Carrier ($32.98): Best Baby Backpack Carrier
Price is the biggest factor that helped this product make its way into our list. When you see that less than $30 price tag does not think that this product is low in quality or compromises safety. With numerous points for strap and buckle adjustment, this product fits snug on parents and babies of different sizes. It is both lightweight and breathable meaning two big issues have already been solved, heating and pain.
Product Specifications:
- Can easily manage babies of up to 35 pounds.
- 3 carry positions available. Front-inward, front-outward, back carry.
Amazon Reviews
I have seen a lot of wraps for babies but I felt they were too complicated for me. I bought this and I love it, my husband loves it, and most importantly, my son loves it. He didn’t like facing me but once he could hold his head up and face out, he was content. I’ve used it at the grocery store, while doing housework, in airport security, and on vacation. It’s so nice! It takes a few uses to really get the hang of, but once you know how to use it, it’s super easy and super convenient
– Sydney
Feels very safe to carry child. I like the different carry options. There are many straps and buttons to figure out – but they are also what make the carrier safe. Wide shoulder straps help with comfort. Leg position is a little wider than what I’d like, but it doesn’t seem to be bothersome for my little one. It is a little difficult to put on – but it can be done solo.
For more product reviews visit amazon
9. LILLEbaby Complete Airflow Six Position Baby Carrier ($99.99): Best Baby Carrier
This airflow baby carrier has 6 ergonomic carry positions for 360-degree babywearing, and the breathable mesh on the front allows you to manage your baby’s temperature. Featuring two-way straps for front or backpack carrying, a big storage pocket, a removable sleeping hood, and an extensible torso, this baby carrier gives comfort and support to the baby and the parent. This baby carrier is BPA-free, phthalate-free, latex-free, and lead-free. It has Adjustable side panels that widen and narrow the seat for comfortable hip positioning.
Product Specifications:
- Six wearing positions
- Large storage pockets
- Comfortable for the parent and baby
Amazon Reviews
LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! BUY BUY BUY!!!
I have tried many other brands (Bjorn, Ergobaby, Boba, Infantino) and this carrier is BY FAR the best! Lillebaby is super comfortable for both me and baby, offers phenomenal support for me and baby AND has greatly reduced stress to my back, neck and shoulders.
I have been able to comfortably wear my infant or two year old for hours on end throughout the day. The reviews were right, this is definitely the most comfortable carrier!
I also love how many configurations there are, 6 in 1! There is a head holder that doubles as a screen to block the sun and wind. There is a pocket which is very useful for any mother, especially a mother of three like me! I have never used a car seat carrier or stroller for my little ones (except a jogger on long walks) and my children are very happy riding along with me and I’m even happier that my back doesn’t ache! It actually feels good wearing this because of the lumbar support.
Buy this carrier, you will fall in love!!!!
Love the head/next support I can actually work hands free!!!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
10. Boppy ComfyFit Hybrid Baby Carrier ($42.99): Best Washable Baby Carrier
The ComfyFit Hybrid Baby Carrier is composed of soft, breathable cotton and is available in a single size, making it simple to distribute among caretakers. The padded waist belt and broad shoulder straps on this baby carrier assist to appropriately distribute the weight of the baby.
This baby carrier is machine washable and is made of 88% polyester and 12% spandex. Carrying your baby is simple in three steps with this baby carrier: Click the belt, strap it, and tie it and you’re ready to carry your baby anywhere.
Product Specifications
- It is of a hybrid fit
- It is forward and outward-facing
- It has a head support
Amaozn Reviews
I believe I have 5 carriers at this point and this one is by far my favorite! So easy to throw on and love that it feels like your wearing a wrap. I wear it around the house a lot but have also taken a ton of walks in it and find it extremely comfortable!
We had asked for a Moby wrap s as recommended by friends, but we really didn’t like how complicated it was to get into it. We didn’t want to spend an arm and a leg on the kinds of harness that clip together though. Somebody recommended this item and it is the PERFECT hybrid. Easy to get into, comfortable and supportive for the baby. Ours also has to wear a Pavlik harness for hip dysplasia, and it supports her legs perfectly. All for a great price! Highly recommended.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
11. ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby Backpack Hiking Child Carrier ($132.99): Best Baby Carrier for Hiking
This lightweight baby carrier weighs just 5.5 pounds but is strong enough to keep both baby and adult relaxed for hours. The hip belt and straps are cushioned for comfort, and the carrier has energy-absorbing lumbar cushioning to keep you cool and secure.
This baby carrier comes with a sun canopy and rain cover that will keep your baby safe, cool, and dry in all weather. The safety belts and foot straps keep your baby safe and comfortable, allowing the baby to fall asleep.
The baby may rest their face against something soft and clean with the washable drool pad. This baby carrier is designed for children aged 9 to 48 months, allowing you to use it for many years as your baby grows.
Product Specifications
- It has multiple pockets including two water bottle pockets.
- The canopy can be easily removed or folded back out of the way.
- Easy to store
Amazon Reviews
We went on a trip to Peru with my 23 month old son who weighs almost 28 pounds and it was the best investment. It is comfortable and of good quality. My son really enjoyed it because he was comfortable and could see everything. Even when he fell asleep it was comfortable but only for a short time. His dad who was carrying him told me that the support for his back is comfortable. We went to Machu Pichu and many other attractions where there was a lot of walking and this was a life saver. I highly recommend it.
Love this baby carrier! I use it for a lot! Hiking, camping, grocery shopping, work around the house and yard, etc.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
12. Baby Tula Explore ($179): Best Baby Carrier for Newborns
The Child Tula Explore baby carrier comes in cloth, cotton, and hemp adaptations, with many plan choices. The Baby Tula Explore is a great option if you’re looking for a stylish carrier that also serves as a bit of a statement piece. However, the Baby Tula Explore was slightly more difficult to put on by itself than the Lllébaby or Ergobaby.
With just under 2 pounds, it’s one of the lightest carriers we tested, and it comes in a variety of high-end fabrics. We tried the Explore in linen, which was extremely comfortable and looked and felt luxurious. Even when carried for long periods of time, the straps were cushioned enough to be extremely comfortable.
The seat was more extensive than the different choices however not exactly wide enough to be worried from a leg and hip situating viewpoint, yet sufficiently wide to make your kid somewhat less comfortable and never allow them to nod off. Additionally, compared to the Ergobaby and Lllébaby carriers, this carrier provides slightly less targeted lumbar support. Although the wide belt does provide some support, the buckle’s placement on the back panel provides little support.
A small pocket on the hip belt can also hold a set of keys. The main drawback, though, was that this carrier was hard to put on by yourself. The back straps are hard to reach, unlike the Ergobaby and Lllébaby carriers and elastic bands hold the buckles in place but don’t give you enough flexibility to get into the carrier on your own.
However, Explore is without a doubt the most stylish carrier and your baby will adore the Explore’s soft linen material; If it works well for an infant, it also works well for the caregiver. This carrier and the company’s other products are covered by a limited warranty that lasts for a year against manufacturing defects.
Product Specifications
- There are 3 carry modes.
- The carrier weighs around 1.7 pounds.
- The waistband can be extended up to 57 inches and 67 inches with a separate extender belt.
- It can carry a child weighing around 7 to 45 pounds.
- The carrier is made of hemp, cotton, or linen.
Amazon Reviews
After my second baby was born I knew I wanted a baby carrier, but being plus size and postpartum was tough when looking for the right fit! I was looking for size inclusivity, comfort, multipurpose use. The Tula hip belt extends 57”, holds up to 45 pounds, very lightweight, with additional padding on the shoulders and waistband for comfort. With this carrier I’m able to front face in carry, forward face carry and backpack style! The whole process takes less than maybe 5 minutes and making sure all straps are secured and baby is comfortable. Being a plus size mom the Tula has been such a great investment for me and my baby, I don’t have any complaints with this carrier! My daughter loves being in the her Tula rather than the stroller and makes my life so much easier. Definitely recommend 10/10!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
The Bottom Line
Trend or no trend, baby carriers are here to stay and it’s a win-win situation. Your baby gets all the snuggles and cuddles while your hands are free to get your chores or work done. So if toting your baby around sounds hectic, consider the best baby carriers listed above and be ready to change your mind. You might not find the right fit at first but in time these baby carriers will make your life a wee bit easy. So how do you check if the baby carrier is the right fit? Follow the acronym TICKS to know if you are carrying your baby safely. Here’s what it stands for:
- T – Tight: Your kid must be snug against your body with no slouching or loose fabric.
- I – In view: You should be able to see your baby’s mouth or face easily with no obstruction.
- C – Close enough: You should be able to reach the baby’s head easily by bending your chin.
- K – Keep off the chest: Your baby’s head must not be tucked onto their chest as it may restrict their breathing.
- S – Supported back: Your baby must be able to maintain their natural spinal position.
And with that, we have come to the end of our awesome top 11 best baby carriers for the year 2023. Hope we have been able to help you make a viable decision. Using a better baby carrier that is not on the list? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below!
