Carrying your baby doesn’t have to feel like a full-body workout. A good baby carrier keeps your little one close, safe, and happy while letting you move freely. Whether you’re running errands, walking the dog, or just trying to get through the day at home, the right hands-free baby carrier can make life so much easier.
Baby wearing isn’t just practical; it helps your baby feel secure, encourages bonding, and can even reduce fussiness. From newborn baby carriers to toddler-friendly wraps and slings, there’s a carrier to suit every stage of your child’s life.
Baby Wearing Benefits: Why Ergonomic Baby Carriers Are Great for Parents
Baby wearing is about more than convenience. Keeping your baby close can help soothe them, improve sleep, and even regulate their temperature and heartbeat. Studies show that ergonomic baby carriers can make both parent and baby feel calmer, thanks to increased oxytocin levels.
For parents, hands-free baby carriers mean you can get things done around the house or on the go without juggling your baby. It can help reduce back and shoulder strain and make breastfeeding or comforting your newborn easier while staying mobile.
What to Look for in a Baby Carrier
- COMFORT IS KING! Look for padded shoulder straps, lumbar support, and waist belts to distribute weight evenly. Adjustable features are a must, so the carrier grows with your baby.
- CONSIDER THE FABRIC: Breathable cotton or mesh carriers are great for warmer weather, while thicker fabrics keep you and your baby cosy in cooler months. Check weight limits and age ranges, so you don’t outgrow your baby sling or wrap too quickly.
- EXTRA CONSIDERATIONS: Look for extra pockets, UPF sun protection, and easy-to-clean materials that’ll make a big difference for busy parents.
Ways to stay active with your baby
Going for walks with the pram, doing light stretches at home, or joining mum-and-bub classes can help you feel more energised. You can even join in on a postnatal fitness class while wearing your baby in a carrier, letting you exercise without needing separate childcare. Start small, listen to your body, and build up your activity level as you feel ready.
Carrier Safety: Keeping Your Baby Safe
Safety first. Read the manual, double-check straps, and never leave your baby unattended in a carrier. And always follow the T.I.C.K.S. rule for baby wearing.
- Tight: The carrier should hug your body.
- In view at all times: You must see your baby’s face.
- Close enough to kiss: Your baby’s head should be near your chin.
- Keep chin off chest: Make sure the airway is clear.
- Supported back: Your baby should sit upright with spine and hips supported.
The 5 Types of Baby Carriers
1. Front Carriers
Front baby carriers hold your baby on your chest, facing you or outwards. Perfect for newborns and infants, they provide closeness and comfort while letting parents stay hands-free. Many front carriers are ergonomic, with adjustable straps and padded support for longer wear.
2. Back Carriers
Great for older babies and toddlers who want to see the world, back carriers let you carry your child comfortably for longer periods, making them perfect for hiking, shopping, or travel.
3. Hip Carriers
Hip carriers sit your baby on your side (hip) and are ideal for toddlers. Perfect for short trips, like moving around the house or popping to the shop. Quick to use, they your toddler some freedom to shift or lean.
4. Baby Slings
Worn over one shoulder, slings can hold babies in a variety of positions. Lightweight, compact, and travel-friendly, slings are great for parents looking for a portable baby carrier. Proper positioning is important for safety and comfort so make sure you freshen up on how to wear a baby sling.
5. Baby Wrap Carriers
Baby wrap carriers are long pieces of fabric that you tie around your body. They work for newborns, infants, and toddlers, offering multiple positions: front, hip, or back. Wraps distribute weight evenly and give babies a snug, womb-like feel that many find calming.
6 Baby Wearing Products to Keep Your Baby Close, Happy & Hands-Free
Ergobaby Omni Deluxe Baby Carrier
RRP: $449
WHERE TO BUY: Ergobaby
AGES: Newborn to 20.4kg
HOW TO WEAR: Supports front (inward/outward), back, and hip for babies and toddlers.
The Ergobaby Omni Deluxe Baby Carrier is a true winner for parents looking for comfort, style, and practicality all in one. Suitable from newborn up to 20.4 kg, it grows with your baby, so you won’t need to buy multiple carriers.
Perfect for parents who want a carrier that works as hard as they do, its versatile carry positions, ergonomic support, and clever storage pockets, it makes everyday adventures with your baby easier and more comfortable.
This carrier is designed to make life easier. It supports all carry positions: inward, outward, hip, and back. The SoftFlex Mesh fabric keeps both you and your baby cool, while the padded shoulder straps and lumbar support make long days of wearing your baby a lot more comfortable. With six handy pockets for essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys, it’s perfect when you need to run errands or grab a coffee on the go. The ergonomic design ensures your baby sits in a hip-healthy “M” position, approved by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
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Babybee Joey
RRP: $249.99
WHERE TO BUY: Babybee
AGES: Newborn to 3 Years
HOW TO WEAR: Supports front (inward/outward) carrying for newborns to toddlers.
The Babybee Joey is all about comfort, safety and keeping your baby close. Suitable from newborn up to 3 years (15kg), it grows with your little one so you can enjoy hands-free bonding for years to come.
Babybee Joey moulds to your body like a second skin, giving a perfect fit that is comfortable all day long. Its ergonomic design supports your baby’s spine and hips, endorsed by the Australian Babywearing Association, so you can feel confident your bub is safe. Crossover straps and even weight distribution help reduce back strain, while the breathable mesh panel keeps you cool on warmer days. There’s even a built-in carry bag for easy travel and a removable pocket for essentials like your phone or dummies. The UPF50+ sunshade and organic cotton bib mean your baby stays protected and comfortable wherever you go.
Whether you’re heading out for a quick walk or spending the day on the go, the BabyBee Joey will keep your baby snug and secure while giving you the freedom to move around. It’s designed to make baby wearing simple, comfortable, and fuss-free.
Gooseket 365 Toddler Sling Plus
RRP: $149.21
WHERE TO BUY: Gooseket Baby
AGES: 6 months to 4 years
HOW TO WEAR: Designed for front and hip carries only.
The GOOSEKET 365 Toddler Sling Plus is a lightweight and practical solution for everyday parenting. Perfect for active babies from around 6 months up to 4 years (max weight 20kg), it keeps your little one close while giving your arms and back a much-needed break.
This toddler sling is all about comfort and versatility. Made from soft, durable cotton, it moulds to your body, and your child’s, creating a snug and secure fit. The Plus model includes a detachable fanny pack for easy hands-free storage, which can be removed when not needed. Its minimalist design makes it stylish and suitable for all parents, whether you’re running errands, taking a short walk, or travelling.
Lightweight, compact, and easy to adjust, the 365 Plus keeps things simple. It’s ideal for parents who want a fuss-free carrier that moves with them, whether you’re darting between appointments or heading out for a weekend outing.
Moby Classic Wrap Baby Carrier
RRP: $99.95
WHERE TO BUY: Amazon
AGES: 4 – 15kg
HOW TO WEAR: Fully adjustable baby wrap carrier for front inward, front outward, and hip carries.
The Moby Classic Wrap is a parenting favourite for its comfort, style, and adaptability. Made from soft, breathable, durable 100% cotton fabric, it provides the perfect snuggle for newborns, infants, and toddlers.
The versatile Moby Wrap offers multiple carrying positions as your baby grows, plus one-size-fits-all comfort for parents and caregivers, making it the perfect carrier to encourage bonding throughout your baby’s developmental stages. The wrap evenly distributes the weight of carrying a baby across the back and hips, allowing for on-the-go comfort and hassle-free adventures.
The Moby Classic Wrap lets you customise how you carry your baby every time you use it. Its stretchy design and all-in-one style give you freedom of movement while keeping your little one snug, making it ideal for both busy days and quiet moments at home.
Hipsy Carrier
RRP: $145
WHERE TO BUY: The Memo
AGES: 9 Months to 20kg
HOW TO WEAR: Best for hip/side carrying toddlers.
The Hipsy Carrier is designed for parents who want an easy, practical way to keep their toddlers close. Made from soft, durable linen, it’s lightweight and fuss-free for everyday use.
Suitable for children from 9 months to 20 kg, the Hipsy Carrier slips over your head and lets you seat your little one in seconds. Its cupped shoulder design distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on your back, while the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit for almost any parent. The quilted seat adds a little extra comfort for your toddler, and the matching linen storage bag makes it easy to pack up and take anywhere.
The Hipsy Carrier shines when you need a carrier that’s fast and easy to use. Whether you’re popping out for errands or heading to the park, it lets you get your baby in and out quickly without any complicated steps, making life a little simpler.
Hippychick Hipseat
RRP: $89.95
WHERE TO BUY: Baby Central
AGES: 6 Months to 3 Years
HOW TO WEAR: Primarily a hip carrier, with limited front carry.
The Hippychick Hipseat is a practical solution for parents looking to carry their toddlers comfortably. Designed to reduce back strain, it provides a firm, padded shelf for your child to sit on, allowing you to carry them naturally on your hip.
Suitable for children from 6 months to 3 years, the Hipseat features a sturdy belt waistband that supports your child’s weight, promoting a healthier spine posture while carrying them. Its simple design makes it easy to use, and it’s machine washable for convenience. Parents appreciate its durability and the relief it offers from back pain during extended carrying sessions.
If you’re seeking a straightforward, back-friendly carrier that lets you keep your toddler close without the complexity of traditional carriers, the Hippychick Hipseat is a reliable choice. Its minimalist design and effective support make it a standout option for everyday use.
Choosing the right carrier depends on your lifestyle, your baby’s age, and how you like to move. From front carriers for newborn snuggles to hip carriers for quick trips, ergonomic wraps for long wear, and even backpack-style toddler carriers, there’s an option for every parent.
Baby wearing makes life easier, keeps your baby close, and gives you freedom to get things done.
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