What To Look For
According to renowned pediatrician Dr. William Sears, baby wearing calms fussy babies, makes them more aware and speeds up learning. Look for baby carriers that include a supportive insert intended for newborns, such as the Ergo, or for wraps that are adjustable, like the Moby or Sleepy Wrap. If ease of tying is a concern, consider ring slings that slip on and off very quickly. Consider how difficult or easy it would be to comfortably nurse your baby with a carrier, if you are breastfeeding.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid purchasing a baby sling or carrier simply because a friend says it works well for her. Your body size and type are different from hers, and you could end up with a sling that is not comfortable for you or your baby. Go to a reputable dealer and try on a variety of different baby carriers with your baby to see what makes her and you most happy. Remember to try nursing to see which carriers best support your baby so that you can comfortably and discreetly nurse on the run.
Where To Buy
Availability of a wide variety of baby carriers can be hard to come by in big-box stores. Instead, head to your local nursing supply store, cloth diaper supply store or natural baby supply store. Alternatively, ask moms on local parenting forums where they got their slings. Many forums have work-at-home moms who sell a variety of slings and carriers. Usually, you can arrange to meet at your house or theirs to try all their products and decide what is best for you. Also, scour online baby-wearing sites for sale and trade forums.
Cost
Cost of baby carriers varies greatly, depending on whether the sling is new or used, name brand or off-brand, homemade or manufactured. Homemade wraps are made for as little as $10, using six yards of woven or stretchy material from the local fabric store. No sewing is required. Used carriers on specialty forums range from free to $50 or so ,and new carriers range from $40 to $200, depending on type. Wraps and ring slings tend to be less expensive than structured carriers.
Comparison Shopping
Each type of baby carrier has its advantages and disadvantages. Structured carriers like the Ergo or Baby Bjorn are quick to get on and off but may not be best for large-busted or plus-sized individuals. Some people think the Ergo offers better alignment for baby than the Baby Bjorn. Wraps like the Sleepy, Maya or Moby wrap are not as easy to get on and off but are easy to nurse in and offer limitless adjustment and support for baby, depending on how they are tied. Slings are quick but sometimes not as comfy or secure for baby.
Accessories
Depending on the carrier you choose, a variety of accessories are available to make carrying your newborn easier. Structured carriers offer newborn inserts to make them more supportive for very small babies, as well as extender belts for plus-size parents. Structured carriers also offer weatherproof covers, backpacks, pouches and changing pads that attach to the carrier. Accessories range greatly in cost and can add $15 to $70 to the cost of your newborn carrier. Wraps and slings are generally usable right out of the box and do not require any accessories or modifications for larger or smaller parents and babies.
Insider Tips
Avoid purchasing a baby carrier over the Internet without trying it on with your baby first. Wait until after your baby is born and take him shopping with you. He may feel uneasy in a structured carrier, while a wrap makes him feel content. Perhaps he is too wiggly in the ring sling and enjoys moving his arms and legs freely in the Ergo or Baby Bjorn. Remember that much of what makes a carrier ideal for you is how it fits you and how your baby responds to being worn in it.
