Using a baby sling, wrap or other infant carrier can make life easier for caregivers while giving infants extra security. It is convenient and an asset to breastfeeding mothers. And caregivers looking after older children will have more mobility to chase little ones around the yard.



Fussy and colicky babies tend to be content when held closely in an infant carrier and the quiet alertness of infants in a sling tend to lend toward enhanced learning.

There are many types of baby carriers. These include adjustable slings with rings, pouch slings, Asian inspired carriers and warps that simply tie on. Each sling distributes weight and cradles babies differently.

If possible try on several different types, bands and sizes of baby carriers to see which suits you best. Knowing the differences is another step toward finding the best baby carrier.

Baby slings are typically a one shoulder carrier. They are great for newborns as well as toddlers. Infants can be carried in a cradle position while older children can be positioned on the hip sitting up.

This type of carrier is great for short periods of time but because of uneven weight distribution on one shoulder these carriers are not ideal for long intervals of baby wearing or for carrying an especially heavy baby. Among sling designs there are two popular versions, the pouch sling and the ring sling.

Pouch slings are easy to place baby in and out and are great for quick trips. However, infants who can not hold their head up can really only be carried in a reclining position. But if you are looking to simulate the womb or calm a tired baby this is a great option.

Pouches are also nonadjustable and must be fit to the wearer. Therefore, only one parent can use this sling. Ring slings differ from a pouch sling because it is often more adjustable. By manipulating the sling it generally can accommodate different wearers.

Newborns can be held upright or reclined in a ring sling and an extra piece of fabric that trails the sling can be used as an infant pillow or a cover-up for nursing.

The next style of baby carriers is a wrap. Wraps are often considered to be the most versatile and the most supportive. This type of carrier is better for long interval use.

It distributes weight much better than a sling. However, due to the amount of fabric in a wrap it can get hot for both carrier and baby. Wraps are also a bit harder to learn to use.

The last type of baby carrier is a backpack style carrier also known as a soft pack. This style includes Asian inspired mei tai carriers and soft structured carriers. These are similar in design.

Anyone interested in this type of carrier should try on several before deciding which one will best suit your needs because typically male carriers are better suited for the soft structured designs.

Because of all of the different weight distribution and adjustability levels parents interested in finding the best sling and carrier for their needs should first determine how and what purpose the sling will serve.

For parents looking for a carrier that can be used for long periods of time a wrap or backpack style carrier will serve better. However, if you are looking for a carrier for a smaller infant that would be used for shorter intervals try a sling.

Popular brands such as Maya Wrap, Ellaroo, Ergo and Freehand Mei Tai all have an extensive amount of information and photos on their website which allows customers to have a better understanding of how their products work.