ParentlistBaby Carrier
Soft structured carrier or wrap for hands-free soothing, naps and errands.
- Priority
- Essential
- Ages
- 0-2 years
- Category
- Strollers & Walks
When you need it
A baby carrier is useful from the newborn weeks, when babies want to be held most of the time and many naps happen on you. Lots of families keep using one until around 2 years for hikes, crowded places and tired-toddler moments, depending on the carrier's weight limit.
What to look for
Check the age and weight range, and whether the carrier supports a newborn without a separate insert. Wide, padded shoulder straps and a supportive waist belt spread the load, and a wide seat that supports your baby's thighs helps keep their hips comfortable. Breathable, machine-washable fabric helps in warm weather. Follow the manual for positioning, keep your baby's face visible and airway clear, and ask your pediatrician if you have concerns about hips or posture.
Baby Carrier: common questions
- Do I need a baby carrier?
- Many parents consider a carrier essential, especially in the newborn months or when there is an older sibling to chase. It frees your hands, can calm a fussy baby and goes where strollers cannot. Try a wrap or a borrowed carrier first to see which style suits your body before buying.
- When does a baby need a baby carrier?
- A carrier is useful from birth, as long as it is designed for newborns or used with the right insert. It stays handy until about 2 years or the carrier's weight limit.
Ages
- Newborn essentials (0-3 months)
- 3 Month Old essentials (3-6 months)
- 6 Month Old essentials (6-9 months)
- 9 Month Old essentials (9-12 months)
- 1 Year Old essentials (12-18 months)
- 18 Month Old essentials (18-24 months)
On these checklists
- Newborn Essentials Checklist
- Baby Registry Checklist: What You Actually Need
- Flying With a Baby Checklist
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