Baby carriers are wonderful for so many reasons. For one thing, they help new babies to bond with their parents. Studies show that babies worn regularly actually cry less, whether in or out of the carrier, than their non-worn counterparts. On the other hand, carriers can help parents keep their sanity because they can actually get things done.

With all of these reasons (and many more) to purchase baby carriers, the market has exploded in recent years. When starting to look into carriers, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the choices of styles and prices available out there. Plus, everyone seems to have an opinion as to what style and brand are best. I think the key is to keep a few simple questions in mind as you research so that you can find the best carrier for your family.

In what types of situations will you be using your carrier? Of all of the considerations, I think this is the biggest. Are you only planning to use your carrier on special occasions (trips to baseball games, vacations, etc.), or are you planning on using it on a daily basis? Will you try babywearing right away with your newborn, or is it something that you plan to try down the road? The type of carrier you want (and probably the price you are willing to pay) will depend greatly on how you answer these questions.

Is babywearing something to which you are committed, or are you just trying it out? Again, I think the type of carrier you try and the price range you consider should reflect your interest in babywearing.

How long do you want your baby to be able to use your carrier? Most baby carriers these days make the claim that they work well for infants through toddlers (some carriers up to 40 pounds!), but there are carriers that are clearly better for some ages and stages than others. Do you want one, all-encompassing carrier, or will you be willing to change styles (and make a second purchase) as your child gets older?

What is your tolerance for a learning curve with a baby carrier? Some carriers, such as fitted slings, are easy to learn - you simply hang the circle of fabric on your shoulder, slip the baby in, and go. Other carriers, such as wraps that are really long pieces of fabric that your wrap around your body, have a much higher learning curve. Be realistic with yourself and how much work you are willing to do to get your carrier to work. Purchasing a carrier won’t do you any good if you aren’t ever up to putting it on.

Want to find out more about baby carriers? There are tons of great resources out there! Right here on Polliwogged, there have been reviews of some great carriers. Another great site is The Babywearer, where you can compare different styles of carriers, read reviews, and post questions on forums.

Do you have additional questions, or other considerations that parents should make when deciding on a carrier? Please post them here!
- Sara I.