Baby carriers we love

Not only does carrying your bundle allow you to be hands-free, but it helps to establish a secure attachment between parent and child and promotes breastfeeding. It’s also been proven that babywearing can decrease fussiness and improve the quality and length of baby’s naps. But it’s easy to put on a carrier incorrectly, which can lead to discomfort for your child and stress on your back. We spoke to Romel Roache of Moms to Be and More in Toronto for his expert tips on how to wear your baby properly.

Your baby's head and face should always be visible.

The baby's body should contour to your torso and he should be placed in a semi-reclined position to promote healthy spinal cord growth.

Hold him high and tight: He should be just below your bustline and you should be able to bend over easily without worrying that he'll fall out.

TIP: Stand up straight while putting on any sling or carrier to get the correct fit. 

Where to Buy?
$65 Hot Slings

Slings are best for infants

Where to Buy?
$69 pippalily

Where to Buy?
$110
Blue Celery

Your baby should be high enough that you can kiss the top of his head by just slightly lowering yours.

To wear your baby facing out, he must be able to hold his head up on his own; otherwise he needs to be inward facing.

The straps should be fastened securely around you so that the baby does not shift positions; you should be able to take a deep breath comfortably. Begin by adjusting the lumbar straps and then the shoulder straps.

His hips should be relaxed and legs not spread too far apart. His weight should be evenly distributed across the seat. 

TIP: Bring your babe to the store and try him in different carriers to see which one best suits both of you.

Where to Buy?

Front carriers are best for children that are 4+ months old

Where to Buy?
Belle Baby Organic Jubilee $130 Belle

Where to Buy?
Snugli vented carrier $60 Snugli

Where to Buy?
Evenflo Breathable $30 Evenflo

Once she has been placed in the backpack, tighten the side straps so that she is securely in place, but not so tight that they restrict her from moving at all.

Arrange the seat inside the carrier based on your child's height; her nose should align with the top of the carrier.

Like any backpack, you need to adjust the shoulder straps first so that the carrier sits correctly on the user. The backpack should sit tightly across your back so that you can maintain your balance.

Where to Buy?
Phil & Teds Metro $170 Phil & Teds

Backpack carriers are best for big kids

Where to Buy?
MEC Happytrails (up to 50 lbs) $109 MEC

Where to Buy?
Little Life Voyager (up to 44 lbs) $300 Little Life

Where to Buy?
Kelty Transit 3.0 (up to 40 lbs) $229 Kelty

Can't make up your mind?

A hybrid carrier that gives you the flexibility of wearing your child on your front, back or even hip.

Where to Buy?
Beco Gemini $140 Beco

Where to Buy?
ERGO Original Carrier $120 ERGO Baby