★ need some help?
So, you’re interested in a baby carrier for convenience, or for closer cuddles with your little one? Find below a guide to some of the types of carrier and the options available to you.
If you’re already sussed and you know the different types on offer BUT don’t know which one would suit you, then click here to scroll down to the next section.
★ knowing your carriers
Wraps
Wraps are essentially one long piece of fabric. This is wrapped around your waist, back and chest, and the baby is then placed between the fabric and your body. Again, dependent on age, your baby can be placed in the wrap in a variety of different ways.
Like pouches (below), wraps are suitable from birth onwards and can be used whilst breastfeeding. However, unlike a pouch, they distribute your babies weight across both your shoulders, and your back and waist, meaning they are more comfortable for longer periods of time. Wraps can be used right up until toddlerhood and beyond (although it does get tricky getting your child in and out of them!).
Most wraps are one-size fits all.
At b2, we stock the very popular Sleepy Wrap brand. Click here for more info or to buy a Sleepy Wrap.
Soft-Structured Carrier
Soft-structured carriers are formed just like a backpack! They are designed so that your baby is held upright against your chest (front carry) or back. These types of carrier tend to be more suitable for infants from 4 months+, as they usually require your baby to be able to support their head and place their legs in a “froggy” position (with their legs around your waist).
Wearers often feel they offer better support once their babies are larger/older, and are easier to get babies in and out of. They are particularly good for back carries, as their structured panel means they hold your little one in more securely than pouches or wraps. They are also excellent for carrying toddlers, and many are designed specifically for this purpose.
Soft-structured carriers have adjustable straps to secure them round the shoulders and waist. These can be fastened with buckles (like the Patatpum), or may need to be tied (this style is known as “mei tais”).
At b2 we stock Patapum (in both Baby and Toddler versions) and Boba soft-structured carriers.
Pouches
Pouches are made of a length of fabric sewn into a ring. This is folded in half widthways to create a pouch, and then placed over your head and worn over 1 shoulder (like a sash). Your baby can then be placed inside the pouch in a variety of positions, depending upon their age.
Pouches are suitable for newborns upwards, are good for breastfeeding whilst on the go, and are less fiddly than a wrap. However, once your baby gets heavier, they can put strain on the one shoulder they are worn over. They come in a variety of sizes depending on your chest size/height, therefore may not be able to be shared with your partner or other carer.
We will have the beautiful Peanut Shell pouches available to buy early 2010.
★ which one should I get?
There is quite a lot to bear in mind before buying a carrier. It may help you to ask a few questions about your baby and your lifestyle to help choose the right one for you:
How much time will I be wearing my baby for?
If you’re thinking of using a carrier for large chunks of the day, then a wrap or soft-structured carrier will be more comfortable than a pouch style.What age baby do I have?
Pouches are great for newborns, but parents usually feel they need something more supportive after a while. Stretchy wraps are perfect from newborn - 1 year approx. For older babies/toddlers, soft-structured carriers are a good, secure choice.How does my baby like to be held?
Some babies like being held in a reclining position - making a pouch suitable, whereas others only want to be upright from an early age - meaning a wrap or soft-structured carrier are better.
If you're still not sure what's best for you, contact us and we will be more than happy to help.
