Top 5 Best Carriers for Newborns: Safe and Snuggly Choices

Find out which carriers are perfect for your newborn and ready to use from day one, with tips for ensuring a snug and safe fit.

Top 5 Best Carriers for Newborns: Safe and Snuggly Choices

When it comes to carrying your newborn, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every type of carrier has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle and preferences. This list isn’t a ranking but rather a guide to the top five carrier styles suitable for newborns. To learn more about each carrier type, check out our FREE Carrier Guide Course for a deeper dive.

Stretchy Wraps

Perfect for the early months, stretchy wraps are made from soft, elastic fabric that wraps around the caregiver’s body, creating a snug and secure fit. They mimic the feeling of the womb, helping soothe newborns with their closeness. Stretchy wraps are especially suitable for new parents because they are forgiving in terms of tying and can be easily adjusted. However, they are typically limited to the first few months when the baby is still lightweight.

Woven Wraps

Woven wraps are made from non-stretchy fabric, providing excellent support for newborns while also being versatile enough for long-term use, even into toddlerhood. The catch? Woven wraps come with a learning curve, but with practice, they can be used in multiple carrying positions. For newborns, it's recommended to choose a thin wrap with a grammage (GSM) around 200 in your base size. For help finding your base size, refer to our Base Size Guide. The woven wrap's adaptability and durability make it a great investment for parents who want to carry their child for an extended period.

Ring Slings

A ring sling is a length of fabric threaded through two rings, creating a pouch for your baby. They are great for quick "ups and downs" because of their ease of use and adjustability. While they work well for short periods or quick tasks, ring slings may not be suitable for long periods due to the one-shoulder carry style, which can strain the caregiver. Thin fabrics are ideal for newborns, offering a snug fit without being bulky. Ring slings can be used well beyond the newborn stage, making them a versatile addition to your babywearing toolkit.

Soft Structured Carriers (SSC)

SSCs are perhaps the most recognizable baby carriers, including popular options like Ergobaby, WildBird's buckle carriers, and Artipoppe's Zeitgeist. They feature a soft fabric back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, and a waistband, providing ergonomic support for both the baby and the caregiver. However, despite many manufacturers' claims, not all SSCs are suitable for newborns straight out of the box. To ensure a safe and ergonomic fit, consider using newborn inserts or choosing models specifically designed for tiny babies, such as the Neko Tiny or Ergobaby Embrace. Consulting a babywearing expert is highly recommended for finding the right fit, but if that’s not an option, these carriers are a good starting point.

Meh Dai (Mei Tai) Carriers

The Meh Dai combines the structure of an SSC with the versatility of a wrap. It consists of a rectangular fabric body with long straps that tie around the waist and shoulders, allowing for various carrying positions. This hybrid carrier is a great choice for those who want the benefits of both wrapping and a buckle carrier. The adjustable design supports a newborn's ergonomic position while offering the flexibility to grow with your baby.

Safety First

For all carriers, ensure you are practicing safe babywearing techniques. Our FREE Guide to Safe & Healthy Babywearing provides key safety tips to keep your baby comfortable and secure.

Categories: : Babywearing for Different Ages, Choosing A Carrier