We surveyed 42 mommies, who used a total of 12 different brands of baby carriers. Here are our key findings:
- These baby carriers are popular among mommies: Ergobaby Omni 360, Ergobaby Omni Breeze, Tula Explore and Tula Free-to-Grow.
- The top 5 considerations when choosing a baby carrier are: Back support, security for the baby, ease of use, fabric breathability and its carrying positions.
Keep reading to find out which are the best baby carriers voted by our mommies!
- For a light and comfortable carrier, go for the Ergobaby Omni Breeze.
- For a carrier that grows with your baby, go for the Ergobaby Omni 360.
- For a carrier that is easy to use and adjust, go for the Tula Explore.
- For a sleek and stylish carrier, go for the Tula Free-to-Grow.
Why You Should Trust Me
Hi there! My name is Jie Min and I’m a mom of two boys. For my firstborn, I used the Konny Baby Carrier Summer. When my second child was born, I switched to the Konny Baby Carrier Flex Summer, which had just been released. I have also tested two other carriers that are used mainly by my husband – the Ergobaby Omni 360 and the Ergobaby Omni Breeze.
My babywearing experience
When I started looking for a baby carrier, I found that most of them were too bulky and did not suit my petite frame. I eventually stumbled upon the Konny Baby Carrier Summer and was drawn to its snug design and lightweight material. However, I was hesitant to buy it because the size wasn’t adjustable.
In the end, I decided to purchase a second-hand piece and this turned out to be a great decision. My firstborn could only fit in the carrier for 4 months before outgrowing it. However, I still managed to make the best out of it. While my husband struggled to put our firstborn to sleep in his Ergobaby carrier, especially in the first 2 months when he was still so small, my firstborn would fall asleep in mine within a few minutes.
For my second child, I purchased the new adjustable version – the Konny Baby Carrier Flex Summer. The carrier has still been as effective in putting my child to sleep and I foresee using it for a longer time since I can loosen the straps as my child grows bigger.
Finding the right baby carrier for you
Between me and my husband, we already have different preferences when it comes to baby carriers. Hence, I understand that every parent’s baby-wearing experience is unique. To help you compare the options available in the market, we surveyed 42 mommies and compiled a list of the most popular baby carriers along with their pros and cons. This way, you can make a more informed decision about which is the best baby carrier for you and your baby.
Considerations When Purchasing Baby Carriers
Is there back support?
Parents with back problems may benefit from using a baby carrier with strong back support. Some baby carriers offer lumbar support, which can help alleviate discomfort and reduce strain on the shoulders and back. Also, features like padded waist belts and shoulder straps distribute the baby’s weight evenly, providing extra comfort and support for the parent.
Does the baby feel secure inside?
Safety is always a key consideration for parents. When choosing a baby carrier, it is important to ensure it can hold the baby securely in place.
Is it easy to use?
Using a baby carrier for the first time can be challenging, especially with newborns. However, with some practice, it should be easy to put on the carrier and put in the baby without needing additional help or support.
Is the fabric breathable?
Baby carriers come in various materials, including cotton, knit, and mesh. Mesh baby carriers are popular in hot and humid climates, such as in Singapore, as they allow for better airflow to keep both the baby and parent cool. This is why even though my husband and I use different baby carriers, we both chose carriers made of mesh material.
Does it support different carrying positions?
There are 4 main types of carrying positions: front facing in, front facing out, hip carry and back carry. According to the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI), a facing in position may be healthier for hip development, especially in the first six months. For older babies who have better neck and head control, caregivers may switch to facing out, hip carry or back carry.
Best Baby Carriers
Among the mommies we surveyed, Ergobaby and Tula were the two most popular baby carrier brands. Also, specifically among the mommies who used their baby carrier for more than 2 years, the majority used either an Ergobaby or Tula baby carrier.
In order to understand what makes these carriers stand out from the rest, we conducted a detailed analysis of the pros and cons of each carrier, and finally decided on this list of baby carriers that may benefit you.
Front facing in, front facing out, hip carry and back carry
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Front facing in, front facing out, hip carry and back carry
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Front facing in, front facing out and back carry
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Image Credit: Ergobaby Official Site and Tula Official Site
Ergobaby Omni Breeze
All-Day-Comfort-Carrier – the Ergobaby Omni Breeze is for mommies who want to invest in a comfortable babywearing experience for themselves and their babies.
This baby carrier, which was quite recently released in May 2021, has quickly become the most popular choice among the mommies we surveyed. Its SoftFlex Mesh fabric is light and maximizes airflow, ensuring comfort for both mommy and baby throughout the day.
One mommy commented that the carrier’s breathability keeps her baby comfortable, even in hot weather. Another mommy noted that her baby seems more comfortable in this carrier as compared to a different one she had used. This sentiment is echoed by my husband who has been using this baby carrier for the last 8 months.
The carrier is also well-loved by mommies because it is adjustable to fit different caregivers and is easy to use.
Ergobaby Omni 360 Mesh
Grows-With-Your-Child-Carrier – the Ergobaby Omni 360 is designed for mommies who want a carrier that is easily adjustable to fit newborns to toddlers.
At a slightly lower price than the Ergobaby Omni Breeze, the Ergobaby Omni 360 is another popular choice among the mommies we surveyed because it can be used from birth and is easy to use. It also provides good back support, as one mommy shared that she was able to use it daily for 3 weeks while travelling without experiencing discomfort in her back.
Tula Explore Mesh
First-Time-Mommy-Carrier – the Tula Explore is perfect for mommies who want a carrier that can be easily put on and adjusted with simple snap buttons, making it easy for solo use.
From the mommies surveyed, one of their favourite features of the carrier was the ease of use, which is especially important for first-time mommies. Mommies also liked that the carrier can be used from birth.
Do note that Tula Explore comes in a variety of materials. If you live in a hot and humid climate like Singapore, we recommend purchasing from the Coast series which comes with a large mesh panel at the front. This panel provides extra ventilation to keep you and your baby cool.
Tula Free-to-Grow
Stylish-Mommy-Carrier – the Tula Free-to-Grow offers a sleek, streamlined design in a wide range of prints and colours, perfect for the stylish mommy.
Image Credit: Tula Official Site
All of the mommies who used this carrier shared their love for its design. Its compact size may be particularly appealing to petite mommies, as it appears to be less bulky than other soft structured carriers. One mommy also mentioned that she loves how snug-fit it is for her baby.
Baby Carrier Alternatives
Konny Baby Carrier Flex Mesh
Among the 42 mommies we surveyed, only 1 reported using the Konny Baby Carrier. While 5 other mommies considered it, they eventually chose a different brand due to reasons such as its non-adjustable sizing.
Like me, the mommy who used the Konny Baby Carrier Summer appreciated its lightweight material that is machine washable. After trying both Tula and Kony Baby Carriers, she preferred the support the Konny Baby Carrier provided for her and her baby.
With the recent release of the adjustable Konny Baby Carrier Flex Summer in June 2022, this carrier may appeal to more mommies due to its features and a relatively lower price of USD 84.90.
Ergobaby 360 Carrier
The Ergobaby 360 Carrier (USD 149) supports all 4 carry positions like the Ergobaby Omni 360 and Ergobaby Omni Breeze. But at a lower price, it is usable for older babies from 4 to 48 months and doesn’t have crossable straps or a storage pocket. You can still use this with newborns but will need to purchase the infant insert separately.
Soulslings Aseema Baby Carrier
The Soulsings Aseema Baby Carrier (SGD 299) has an inch-by-inch adjustable base and height to hold babies from newborn to 48 months. It also has a wide waistband, padded crossable shoulder straps and lumbar support.
Advice From Other Mommies
Here are some tips from mommies who use baby carriers:
- When shopping for a baby carrier, try it on with your baby (if possible) before making a purchase.
- Look for a carrier made of breathable fabric to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
- Don’t just choose your carrier by the brand – select a carrier that meets both you and your baby’s needs.
- Good back support can help reduce the strain and discomfort for you as a user.
- If your budget allows, invest in a high-quality carrier.
- Lightweight and portable carriers may be more convenient to bring with you when going out with your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Carriers
Why is a baby carrier important?
• Promotes baby’s development and attachment
Research has shown that babies who are carried cry less, which may help alleviate postpartum depression. In addition, carrying your baby close to your body can aid in your baby’s physical, emotional and even early language development. Using a baby carrier is also a great way to bond with your child and provide them with the security and attachment they need.
• Prevents hip dysplasia
Image credit: International Hip Dysplasia Institute Official Site
Recent studies have shown that carrying babies in an “M” shape can help prevent hip dysplasia. The braces and harnesses used to treat hip dysplasia also position the babies’ legs in the same flexed and outward position as many baby carriers. As a result, experts believe that may improve hip development. The IHDI maintains a list of baby carriers that encourage healthy hip development.
Is a baby carrier or wrap better?
It depends! While baby carriers are more structured and easier to put on, they are often more bulky. On the other hand, wraps are easier to store and provide better support. However, they tend to be more tricky to put on.
Thoughts on Baby Carriers
Ultimately, the best baby carrier is the one that meets the needs and preferences of you and your baby. Some mommies prioritise comfort above all, while others prefer a baby carrier that is easy to use.
We hope that this article provides you with the information you need to narrow down your options and make a more informed decision when purchasing a baby carrier.
To end off this post, I would like to give thanks to the sweetest mommies, who completed the survey amidst their busy schedules to make this review possible:
- ah_joyy
- alyssalsy
- Baby_mlow
- Baby.sharonbaby
- Blingnsplitz
- butterxcotch
- chia.pei.qi
- chlovelleeee/ adewoopy
- Christinelovess
- Dayswithamelia
- geraldine_yuenlin
- irahmokie
- Iseij
- Jamieloves
- jielinjump_
- Jigglyboo
- Jinglin86
- Jingsmb
- jucchini_
- Lilian_sg
- Lindayeo
- Lollipoppkiss
- m3rryann
- mandapiglet
- Nerwany
- ngklaire
- norainiaman
- Ohhh.shana
- Racheltay11
- Samantha_seah
- Samchionh
- Sereneh
- Shandylim
- Sharlenetng
- Shaseow
- Strawberrylavenderr
- wan.3053
- Winsonsoh
- Woukysansmiles
- xinrongitis
- Zcyainyi
Disclaimer: Nuevamae is not sponsored by any of the mentioned brands or platforms. This article expresses our honest opinion based on our experience and research. Read more about our mission. This article includes affiliate links so we may earn a commission (at no additional cost to you) if you make a purchase via the link.
