Babywearing 101: Choosing the Right Carrier for You and Baby

Babywearing has been practiced across cultures for thousands of years and the research behind it is consistently positive. Babies who are carried cry less, feed more efficiently, regulate their temperature better against a caregiver's body, and may develop stronger attachment bonds. For parents, it means having your hands free while keeping baby settled and close.

The main types of carrier

**Structured carriers** have a waist belt, padded shoulder straps, and buckle closures. They distribute weight well across your hips and shoulders and are generally the easiest to use from day one. Most can be used from newborn without an insert, though always check the specific minimum weight.

**Ring slings** are a single long piece of fabric threaded through two rings. They are lightweight, quick to put on and take off, and great for feeding discreetly while babywearing. There is a slight learning curve but most parents pick it up within a few attempts.

What to look for in any carrier

The most important thing is a deep ergonomic seat that supports baby's hips in an M-position, with knees slightly higher than the bottom and the fabric supporting from knee to knee. This is the position that supports healthy hip socket development.

Baby should always be high enough to kiss on the head, close enough to observe easily, and with their airways clear and visible at all times.

A note on wearability

The best carrier is the one you will actually use. If it takes ten minutes to put on, you will leave it in the cupboard. Test different types before committing if you can, or order from a retailer with a good return policy.

Many sling libraries allow you to try different options before buying, which is a genuinely brilliant resource worth looking up in your area.