You’ve just welcomed your sweet newborn into the world; you’ve spent many hours gazing down at them and wondering how they were the same little feet kicking you only days ago. You are loved up and navigating all the ‘newness’ of motherhood, but you’re wondering how you will ever get anything done again. Say Hello to the Best Baby Carriers in Australia.
Not only do baby carriers provide the opportunity to keep your baby close to your heart, but they offer much-needed hands-free time to new mums. Continue enjoying those newborn snuggly cuddles while also being able to get your errands ticked off, prepare food or have the extra hands to wrangle other children in your life (and make that coffee you so desperately need).
In this article, we cover the types of baby carriers, tips for using your baby carrier safely, how to choose a carrier for you and the best carriers on the market in 2023. Let’s get into it!
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Types of Baby Carriers
Baby Wrap: A long piece of fabric you wrap around your body and baby. Typically made in either stretchy or woven material.
Ring Sling: A long piece of material, typically woven, sewn with two rings to create a carrier for your baby.
Buckle Carriers (SSC): Soft Structured Carriers are typically made with a pre-built panel to support baby, padded waistband, shoulder straps and buckles.
Meh Dai Carriers: Meh Dai Carriers an Asian carrier (originating in China) consists of a fabric panel with long straps wound around the parent’s body and tied.
Onbuhimo Carrier: The Onbuhimo Carrier is a traditional Japanese carrier designed to be worn high on the parents back. Similar to the SSC in structure, but without a waste band.
What are the Benefits of Babywearing?
Your baby has just spent nine months in utero, warm and comfortable with the constant sound of your heartbeat. We love that a baby carrier can mimic the womb by offering babies the closeness and familiarity they are used to as they adjust to this new (and wonderfully bright) world. We believe there are several benefits to using a baby carrier with your baby, such as :
- Supports the bond between you and your baby.
- Known to reduce crying in your baby. (see study here)
- Offers much-needed flexibility and hands-free time for parents.
- It supports physical development and is considered a form of ‘tummy time’, reducing flat-head syndrome rates.
- Allows for on-the-go breastfeeding (and discreetly, too)
- Known to minimise reflux systems in your baby.
- Supports overall well-being for both parent and baby.
Is it Safe to Use a Baby Carrier?
Are baby carriers safe to use? In short, yes, if worn correctly. We have covered the benefits of babywearing, but it is essential that we also share the risks of incorrect positioning while using a baby carrier. Incorrect positioning can lead to hip dysplasia, suffocation, falls, or other injuries. Don’t worry; we’re about to cover all the safety tips to consider when using a baby carrier for your baby.
- Follow the TICKS Checklist (tight, in view, close enough to kiss, keep chin off chest, supported back)
- Ensure healthy hip positioning. (M position)
- Check your carrier is made from high-quality and durable materials.
- Regularly check on your baby.
- Ensure your carrier is breathable for the warmer months.
- Check your carrier is appropriate for your baby’s age/stage.
Tips for Choosing the Best Baby Carrier
To help you choose the suitable carrier for you, consider the following:
Comfort: Comfort is key when selecting a carrier; this includes the amount of support provided to both the baby and the parent carrying. Look for a carrier that offers enough back and shoulder support and allows for correct hip positioning for your baby.
Durability: Consider the materials of your carrier and how long you hope to use them. If you want your carrier to be worn beyond newborn days and into toddlerhood, look for a carrier that supports toddler weight and forward-facing positions.
Temperature: Consider the climate of where you live and the season you’ll use your carrier in. Is it breathable for warm weather?
How to Clean: Not all carriers are machine washable or easy to clean. Consider how often you will use your carrier and how you will keep it clean.
Top Picks For Babywearing: Best Baby Carriers
Now that we have covered all the important ‘need-to-know’ aspects of babywearing, its time to share our favourite carriers on the market.
In no particular order, here are the best baby carriers in Australia.
Ergobaby Carrier: Omni Breeze
The Omni Breeze Carrier by ErgoBaby ($349.00 AUD) is designed with soft flex mesh for increased breathability thanks to maximum airflow. The Omni Breeze ticks all our boxes for comfort, safety features and durability from newborn to toddlerhood. We love the privacy hood for sun/wind protection and breastfeeding on the go.
Chekoh Wrap
Chekoh are known for their wrap carriers ($99.95 AUD) and with good reason. Made from a luxe and breathable bamboo/spandex blend that is adjustable to fit you. The Chekoh carrier is certified ‘hip healthy’ by the IHDI and safe to wear from birth.
Artipoppe
Artipoppe ($530.00 AUD) hit the market by storm in the past few years. Offering mothers a modern, stylish and luxurious babywearing option. Artipoppe carriers are certainly known as a statement piece while also ticking many of the ‘must-have’ boxes of practicality, such as being easily worn from newborn, light and breathable fabric composition, multiple ergonomic positions, optimal support, machine washable, European and American standard checked and classified ‘hip healthy’.
Baby Bjorn Carrier
Babybjorn Harmony Carrier ($299.00 AUD) Navy Mesh is another ‘hip friendly’ option for parents wanting a soft structured baby carrier that can grow with your baby from newborn-3years. Known for their pressure relieving waistband and back support, the design of The Baby Bjorn Carrier ensures both baby and mum/parent are well supported while staying close. We love their unique 3D mesh fabric that is not only fast drying but is soft, durable and breathable. Available at The Memo.
Ergobaby 360 Carrier: Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh
Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh ( $349.00 AUD )Baby Carrier by Ergobaby is known as their “all in one” as it offers the much-loved features of the 360 carriers without the need for the newborn insert. The Omni 360 can be used comfortably from newborn into toddler years and safely worn in 4 positions. The breathable 3D air mesh makes this carrier an excellent option for warmer weather, keeping your baby cooler while kept close.
Chekoh Clip Carrier
Chekoh’s clip carrier ($199.95 AUD) is made from a high-quality bamboo/linen blend and is designed to be worn from 4 months of age up to 15 kilos (with a size clip available for purchase for newborn wearing). The clip carrier offers two supportive wearing options, chest-to-chest and back wearing. Described by customers as ‘simple, beautiful and comfortable’.
Redsbaby Carrier
Redsbaby Connect Carrier ($79.00) is a great budget friendly option, without compromising on the important features of hip development safety. Made from stretchy 100% OEKO-TEX® material, machine washable and designed for comfort. Ideal for newborn-11kilos chest-to-chest wear.
Babydink
Babydink ($179.00 AUD) is not only proudly Australian-made and crafted from organic cotton, but it is a no-fuss option for parents wanting the comfort of a wrap carrier without the fiddliness of getting it on. Babydink is designed to be worn like a top, making it easy to get on and off. In addition to its innovative design, Babydink complies with safety testing of both EU and US standards, is accredited ‘hip healthy’ and offers ample support (and safety) to the babywearing parent. A perfect newborn wrap option.
Love baby wearing? Let us know your favourite carrier in the comments.
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Kirsten
Great suggestions!
Maryanne
A thorough list of products and a great post! Thank you 🙂
Amber Carter
I don’t know how anyone survives without baby wearing! Great list. I love all of them!
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