Choosing your 1st baby carrier
Your newborn needs time to adjust to life outside the womb and one of the best ways to support that transition is babywearing.
A full term baby of around 3.2kg can be carried in most styles of baby carrier right from the start. However choosing from the types of carriers and the range of options can feel overwhelming. So let's look at those best suited to babies in the 4th trimester.
These coocon-like soft fabric carriers are not as tricky as they can look and are ideal for babies up to around 6-8kg. They have no buckles, Velcro or other hard parts. The stretchy fabric gives support and security and are ideal first carriers.
Woven wraps
Very much like stretchy wraps but suitable from birth to early childhood, woven wraps are a wonderful way to keep your baby close. Basic techniques are easy to learn and you only need to progress beyond them if you choose to.
Ring slings
These over the shoulder fabric carriers use simple metal rings to firmly secure them in place. Suitable from newborns through to preschool age they are not as complicated as they look.
Meh dais
These modern twist on traditional designs are available with adjustable sizing making them suitable from newborns to toddlers and can be completely free of buckles or as a half-buckle option for a simpler waistband.
In recent years, designs have become adjustable for use from newborns through to toddlers without the need for bulky inserts. Popular with parents who prefer buckles and clips over wrapping and tying.
Shopping for a baby carrier
The best way to learn which carrier is right for your family is to try a range of options.
Babywearing groups and babywearing consultants are available to show you the options and show you how to use a baby carrier safely and comfortably.
The Australian Babywearing Association can connect you with a consultant in your area. Babywearing groups like our own South Eastern Babywearing Group are community collectives of parents who have experience and skills in using baby carriers and come together to share the wisdom.
Our recommended retailers are small businesses in Australia who
