Baby carrier or wrap: what to look for
The difference between a baby carrier and a wrap, from what weight you can carry, which carrying positions there are and how to check the fit.
Carrier, wrap or something in between
A soft structured carrier has a waist belt, shoulder straps and buckles. It goes on and off quickly, and several people can use it without practice. Many models adjust so that they grow with your baby.
In between are the ring sling, a length of fabric with two rings worn over one shoulder, and the mei tai: a panel of fabric with straps you tie, without buckles.
The wrap
A wrap is a long piece of woven or stretchy fabric. You tie it around your body each time, so it fits exactly, even with a newborn. That takes some practice; a babywearing consultant or the manufacturer’s video helps.
Stretchy wraps are often tied once and your baby slides in; they are mainly meant for the first months. Woven wraps last longer but take more practice.
From what weight?
Manufacturers state a minimum and maximum weight, for example 3.2 to 20 kg. Some carriers need an infant insert or a separate cushion for the first months; others you simply adjust smaller.
Carriers fall under the European standard EN 13209-2 for soft carriers. The packaging or manual says what weight and which carrying positions the carrier is meant for.
Carrying positions
For newborns, manufacturers state front carrying, facing you. Facing out, on the hip or on the back is often only possible later; the manual says from what age or weight.
Does it fit you?
A good carrier sits snugly, spreads the weight over your hips and shoulders and keeps your baby high enough. Manuals ask you to keep your baby’s face free and visible at all times, with the chin off the chest.
If you both carry, check how far the straps adjust. Look at the fabric as well: cotton for all year round, airy mesh for summer.
Help with carrying
A babywearing consultant can let you practise with different carriers and wraps. Questions about your baby’s hips, posture or development belong with the consultatiebureau (Netherlands) or Kind en Gezin and ONE (Belgium).
Common questions
From when can my baby go in a carrier?
It depends on the model: the manufacturer states a minimum weight, often around 3 to 4 kg. Some carriers need an infant insert or cushion for newborns.
Can my baby face out in the carrier?
Only in carriers made for it, and usually only from an age or weight the manufacturer states. For newborns, manufacturers state carrying facing you.
Is a wrap better than a carrier?
They are different. You tie a wrap to size each time, which takes practice. A carrier goes on faster and is easier to share. A babywearing consultant can let you try both.
Keep looking
LeBaby doesn’t test products. This guide sets out what the standards and manufacturers say. Always follow the manual of your own product.
More guides
- How to choose a pram Travel system, 3-in-1 or straight to a pushchair? What to look for in the type, the lying position, the fold and your own daily routes. Read the guide
- i-Size explained What the car-seat standard i-Size (UN R129) means, how the height classes work and why your baby rides rear-facing for longer. Read the guide
- Crib, bedside crib or cot? The difference between a crib, a bedside crib and a cot, which sizes are common and when your baby outgrows them according to the manufacturer. Read the guide
