Raising Children Network: the Australian parenting website
  • Suitable for 0-18Months

Baby carriers

 
  • Broad, well-padded shoulder straps that cross at the back help distribute baby's weight.
  • A broad hip or waist strap will take some weight off your shoulders and limit sideways movement of the carrier, adding stability.
  • Try the carrier on in the shop to make sure it fits firmly and the straps are long enough to fit other potential wearers. The baby’s weight should be evenly distributed.
  • All straps should be fully and easily adjustable with one hand. They shouldn’t obscure a baby’s vision or cut into baby's face.
  • Make sure you can put it on and take it off easily without assistance. Clips and buckles are usually easier to do up and release than straps that tie up.
  • The carrier should support a baby sufficiently without restricting head, leg and arm movement.
  • Adequate head support is particularly important for younger babies who have little or no head and neck control yet.
  • For the baby’s comfort, inside seams should be well-finished so they don’t rub or chafe.

The loose fit of a baby sling allows you to breastfeed a baby, which could be awkward in a pouch. However, a sling can also be bulky for smaller babies, uncomfortable to wear, or offer less security for older babies.
 
Clear and concise instructions are important, especially if you haven’t used one before. Pictures are helpful, as is a video, or instructions printed on the carrier itself.

Most carriers indicate a suitable weight or age range from birth up to 18 kg or even preschool age. While some of these ranges can be useful to see whether it’s suitable for a small newborn baby, in most cases you or your baby will decide when it’s time to stop using a carrier – your baby will get too heavy or wriggly for you to carry safely, too big to fit in comfortably, or will find it too confining.

Consider the season you’ll be using it. Lightweight carriers with a more open design may be more comfortable for the baby in warmer months.

If you plan to use the carrier for more than just a few months, make sure it can accommodate your baby’s growth. A facing-out option is particularly important for carrying older babies.

Useful features include a ‘dribble-guard’ to protect your clothes, a pouch for your wallet or keys and a rain guard or sun cover.

See the full CHOICE Online report for more information.

Go to http://www.choice.com.au/ for expert, unbiased tests and reports on baby products, appliances, electronics, food and finances.