19 Best Baby Carriers for Newborns, Infants, and Toddlers

Last Updated on July 3, 2026 by Jordyn Koveleski Gorman

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Choosing the right baby carrier can make a huge difference in your daily routine. I truly consider them postpartum essentials. Whether you’re soothing a newborn, running errands, traveling, or keeping up with a busy toddler, the best baby carrier keeps your little one close while freeing up your hands.

Depending on your baby’s temperament, baby carriers may be the only way you are able to function and get things done! When I had my second baby, she always wanted to be with me. I used so many baby carriers and wore her around everywhere. It’s what worked for us! And I will say, finding the right baby carrier for each stage of her development was a game changer. I tried a ton of carriers to find a good fit for her comfort, and mine! After all, carrying around 15-25 lbs.+ can be a lot.

With so many options available (wraps, ring slings, structured carriers and hip carriers) finding the best baby carrier for your family can feel overwhelming. First of all, they’re not cheap. And every carrier promises comfort, support, and convenience, but not all perform equally when it comes to real-world use.

To help narrow down your options, I’ve personally compared more than 15 of the most popular baby carrier brands and models on the market. I evaluated each carrier based on comfort, ease of use, carrying positions, value, and compiled my pros and cons.

Whether you’re shopping for your first newborn carrier, looking for a more comfortable option for longer outings, or need a carrier that can grow with your child into the toddler years, this post covers it all. By the end, you’ll know which baby carriers are worth considering and which one is most likely to fit your lifestyle, budget, and parenting needs.

What are the benefits of babywearing?

Babywearing is so beneficial for mom and baby! Babywearing in carriers:

• Supports healthy infant attachment and bonding with parents and caregivers
• Stimulates the release of oxytocin in both mothers and babies
• Reduces the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety
• Facilitates opportunities for more skin to skin
• Helps with parent responsiveness in terms of baby’s needs
• Can help with breastfeeding and providing a more discreet way to breastfeed
• When worn correctly, aids in healthy hip development for babies
• Provides an opportunity for caregivers to be hands-free while remaining close to baby

Baby Carriers and Hip Health

When using baby carriers, proper positioning is so important. You’ve probably heard people mention the phrase “hip healthy” when describing baby carriers. The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) used to certify carriers as hip healthy, meaning they support healthy hip development. However, within the last few years, the IHDI stopped certifying baby carriers.

In order to make sure your baby carrier is supporting healthy hip health and development, look for a carrier that allows your baby’s legs to make a natural M-shape. You want to see your baby’s knees higher than hips, spine in a gentle C-curve, and weight on the thighs.

Safe Babywearing

When babywearing, always keep proper safety in mind. You can remember the acronym T.I.C.K.S. to help ensure your little one’s safety.

T – Tight
I – In view at all times
C – Close enough to kiss
K – Keep chin off chest
S – Supported back

• Use an ergonomic position (M-shape) to ensure baby’s healthy positioning
• Check your baby carrier regularly for wear and tear
• Always follow each individual carrier’s safety instructions
• Make sure the carry positions you use are appropriate for your little one’s age

Important Note: While we mention nursing in a carrier, it’s not recommended to nurse your baby in a carrier until they have decent head control, which is usually at minimum three months of age.

Top Picks for Baby Wrap Carriers

Baby wrap carriers are soft, long pieces of fabric that you wrap around your body and tie to create a secure pouch for carrying your baby. Unlike structured carriers that use buckles and padded straps, wraps rely on fabric tension and wrapping techniques to support both the baby and the wearer.

Solly Baby Wrap

The Solly Baby Wrap was the first wrap carrier I ever used when my littles were newborns! I love how comfortable it is for the wearer and the baby. One of my favorite things to do is wear a cotton nursing bra and then wrap my little one with only a diaper on so I can babywear and we can do skin to skin all at once. 

Solly Baby Wrap

Price: $74-88 depending on print/pattern
Carrier Type: Wrap
Material: 100% TENCEL™ Modal
Weight Limit: 8-25 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Inward, parent-facing only
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low. Consider using a garment bag for added protection.

Ease of Putting On: There’s a learning curve with this one! It’s best to watch a Solly Baby Wrap Tutorial and practice. Once you do it a few times, it gets easier and easier. You’ll be a pro in no time!

Wearer Comfort: When wrapped properly and tight enough, it’s super comfortable! Make sure the material is spread out on the shoulders and across the waist for the best fit. As baby gets heavier, you feel more tugging at the shoulders over time since it’s not a structured carrier.

Pros

• I love the ability to contour this baby wrap carrier to your individual body!
• So soft and comfortable for baby and wearer
• Breathable, lightweight material works in all types of weather
• It works for small babies who might not fit in a buckle carrier yet
• Once you have it on and wrapped, it’s easy to take baby out and just keep the wrap on your body until your want to start babywearing again

Cons

• You have to really pull tight to get the best fit and have baby be secure
• It can take time and several tries to feel comfortable wearing baby like this because it requires the right tension and twisting of materials
• It’s very long (there’s a lot of fabric!). Some wearers don’t like the additional material that hangs and needs tucked away somewhere
• Can only be worn parent-facing which may be frustrating for baby once they get older and start looking around more

Moby Baby Wrap

The Moby Baby Wrap is similar to the Solly, but feels a bit more bulky when wearing. I love that the price point is so affordable. After all, I would say baby wraps are usually worn for the least amount of time since they become less comfortable as your baby gets heavier. Another bonus: it’s made from 100% cotton!

Moby Baby Wrap – Classic

Price: $37.99
Carrier Type: Wrap
Material: 100% cotton
Weight Limit: 8-33 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Inward, parent-facing and hip hold
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash cold on gentle or delicate cycle. Hang dry or use the lowest dryer setting.

Ease of Putting On: Just like the Solly Baby Wrap, the Moby Baby Wrap takes some practice until you figure it out. Once you’ve got it down, you’ll become more confident wearing it! You can find Moby Wrap instructions here.

Wearer Comfort: When wrapped properly with the right amount of tension, this wrap is supportive and comfortable. I think it’s most comfortable when used between 8-20 lbs. because it’s not as supportive as more structured carriers. As baby grows, you definitely feel it more in your shoulders and back if you’re babywearing for 30+ minutes.

Pros

• This is such an affordable baby wrap at under $40
• 100% cotton is soft and gentle on baby’s skin (and yours!)
• Can be contoured to your body for best fit
• Moby wraps are size inclusive and fit parents from petite to plus size

Cons

• Can only be used in parent-facing or hip hold which can be more limiting for babies who are more alert and want to look around a lot
• In comparison to the Solly Baby Wrap, the Moby gets hotter faster and feels a bit more bulky

Hope and Plum Baby Carrier

While I used the Solly and Moby wraps with my first two littles, I was introduced to the Hope and Plum baby wrap with my third. I absolutely LOVE it! If I had to pick the best baby wrap carrier, it would be this one. It comes in two sizes for parents so it eliminates the need for a bunch of excess fabric at the bottom after wrapping baby in. I love that it’s made in the USA by fellow moms!

Using this link saves 10% at checkout.

Hope and Plum Baby Wrap Carrier

Price: $90
Carrier Type: Wrap
Material: 70% TENCEL™ Lyocell, 30% Organic Cotton
Weight Limit: 7-35 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Inward, parent-facing
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash cold in a laundry bag, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low (dryer balls help it soften) or hang dry.

Ease of Putting On: As with most baby wraps, this one takes some getting used to. But once you figure it out, it’s golden! It definitely requires a very tight fit because of the two-way stretch. Make sure it’s snug before you put baby in.

Wearer Comfort: When worn correctly and tightly, this baby wrap carrier is super comfortable! The TENCEL and cotton blend is buttery soft and breathable, even on warm days.

Pros

• Comes in two sizes! It’s body inclusive, and it doesn’t have as much extra fabric to tuck in comparison to the Solly and Moby.
• It’s lightweight with a good stretch that still feels secure while you’re carrying your baby
• Comfortable and breathable for wearer and baby
• The colors and patterns are bright and playful
• I love that it’s made in the USA by moms!

Cons

• You need to wrap it really tight for the best, most secure fit and support
• Only supports baby in a parent-facing position

Wildbird Aerial Wrap

I really wanted to love the Wildbird Aerial Newborn Buckle Wrap, but it just wasn’t a favorite for me. While it was comfortable for me to wear, I felt like my baby wasn’t positioned high enough to support proper babywearing. It’s also recommended for such a small weight range, I would probably skip this carrier and wait to use the Wildbird Aerial Buckle Carrier instead! 

Using this link saves 10% on Wildbird products at checkout. 

Wildbird Aerial – Newborn Buckle Wrap

Price: $84-94 (depending on color and pattern)
Carrier Type: Buckle/Wrap combo
Material: 67.5% Lenzing Tencel, 27.5% Modal, 5% Elastane
Weight Limit: Recommended for 7-15 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front carry, parent-facing in only.
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash inside out on cold with like colors, line dry immediately in the shade.

Ease of Putting On: This baby carrier is easy to get on and requires less prep from the wearer when compared to a true baby wrap.

Wearer Comfort: For the wearer physically, it’s super comfy. However, it doesn’t offer many ways to adjust baby so they’re sitting up high enough to kiss (for safety). In this sense, I feel like mentally it wasn’t as comfortable because I was always trying to readjust Natalie and make sure she had safe positioning.

Pros

• Easy to put on
• Comes in two sizes for wearers (XS-XL and L-4XL)
• Padded waist belt for more lumbar support
• Super polished looking baby carrier with lots of colors and fun patterns to choose from

Cons

• Only recommended for babies 7-15 lbs., this is a much shorter weight range than most infant carriers
• I had concerns with the fit for baby – it didn’t offer lots of options for positioning baby so they’re high enough to kiss which is a safety concern

Tushbaby Pearl Wrap Carrier

The TushBaby Pearl Wrap Carrier is my top pick for a newborn wrap buckle combination. It’s super easy to put on and the wide shoulders make it really comfortable to wear. I love the added storage and how it folds up super compact making it perfect for traveling with a baby.

Use code EATPLAY for at least 16% off at checkout.

Tushbaby Pearl Wrap Carrier

Price: $115
Carrier Type: Wrap/Buckle combo
Material: 88% Terylene Rayon, 7% Polyester, 5% Spandex
Weight Limit: 8-20 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front, parent-facing
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash cold on gentle cycle, lay flat to dry.

Ease of Putting On: So easy to put on! I love that it feels like a wrap carrier but the buckle makes it so much easier to secure.

Wearer Comfort: Incredibly comfortable! The wide shoulders provide great support. Soft and breathable material.

Pros

• Super comfortable to wear – the perfect combination of stretch and support
• Lots of storage – bottle holder, cell phone holder, and a D-ring for teethers and toys
• Folds up so small when not in use, so it’s really great to travel with
• Flap helps baby’s head be more supported and protects from sun outside, and it’s great to provide neck support while carrying baby awake when they’re looking all around
• My discount code and frequent Tushbaby sales can make this a more affordable carrier option!

Cons

• Specifically for newborns from 8-20 lbs., so more limited time to wear the carrier
• Made with synthetic fibers, so may not be the best fit for families prioritizing natural fibers

Baby K’Tan

The Baby K’Tan Wrap is a great solution for moms who are intimidated by a full-on baby wrap or sling. There’s no fumbling to get the right fit, you just need to choose the correct size and most of the hard work is done for you! The price point is great and it offers multiple carry positions (for different age ranges) which gives your baby some variety.

Baby K’Tan

Price: $59.95
Carrier Type: Wrap
Material: 100% cotton
Weight Limit: 8-35 lbs.
Carrying Positions: 5 positions – kangaroo, hug, hip, explore, adventure
Sizing: 5 sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL)
Cleaning Instructions: Machine washable, dryer safe (we recommend tumble dry low!)

Ease of Putting On: The Baby K’Tan is easier to put on compared to other baby wraps because it’s ready to wear! You don’t have to tie it completely on your own.

Wearer Comfort: As long as you select the correct size for yourself, the Baby K’Tan wrap fits snug enough to give a tight, more supportive fit. Different carry positions may be more comfortable for certain individuals. It’s light and breathable in warmer weather, too!

Pros

• Super affordable!
• Smaller learning curve with putting on as compared to wraps like the Solly and Moby
• Can support your child in 5 different carry positions over time
• Made of lightweight, breathable cotton

Cons

• Read all the sizing instructions before you buy! If you order the wrong size, it won’t be the right fit
• It’s adjustable for baby, but babies on the smaller end of the weight limits don’t fit as snugly

Baby Wrap Carrier Comparisons

Here’s a breakdown of which carrier I liked best!

Best Wrap Carrier: Hope and Plum Wrap Carrier (Solly Baby is a close second, but I like that Hope and Plum’s comes in two sizes for less slack!)
Best Newborn Buckle Carrier: Tushbaby Pearl Baby Carrier
Best Wrap Carrier for the Mom Who’s Nervous About Wrapping: Baby K’Tan Carrier

Top Picks for Ring Sling Carriers

A ring sling carrier is a type of baby carrier made from a long piece of fabric with two rings sewn into one end. The fabric is threaded through the rings to create an adjustable loop that you wear over one shoulder and across your torso, forming a pouch for your baby.

Wildbird Ring Sling

While I’m not the biggest ring sling fan, some caregivers absolutely love them! I like the Wildbird Ring Sling because it’s made with 100% natural linen, is breathable, and comfy. It’s a good option for moms who want to have multiple carry positions as their baby grows as it can accommodate front, back, and hip carrying. You can use this for baby and then continue use into toddlerhood! 

Use this link to save 10% at checkout. 

Wildbird Ring Sling

Price: $72
Carrier Type: Ring sling
Material: 100% natural linen
Weight Limit: 8-35 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front, back, and hip carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash in cool water and hang dry.

Ease of Putting On: Ring slings definitely have a learning curve. Once you practice, it does get easier! Once you figure things out, it gives a lot of flexibility in terms of wearing and adjusting.

Wearer Comfort: I’m not the biggest fan of ring slings, but the natural linen material in these makes it so breathable and soft for the wearer and baby!

Pros

• Multi-use as a ring sling, nursing cover, sun shade, or blanket
• Made of natural linen fibers
• Comes in two sizes that accommodate every body
• Customize to your style with two ring finishes (gold and brass) and different colors and patterns
• Folds easily to store

Cons

• Learning how to use a ring sling is more of a learning curve, it can take a lot of practice to feel comfortable
• Some wearers note the material is too thick and a little scratchy

Moby Ring Sling

The Moby Ring Sling Baby Carrier is a great affordable ring sling made with 100% cotton! Moby really does offer decent baby carriers at a more budget-friendly cost than most other brands. Once you get the hang of this, it’s great for carrying your little one forward facing and in a hip carry.

Moby Ring Sling Carrier

Price: $50.99
Carrier Type: Ring sling
Material: 100% cotton
Weight Limit: 8-33 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Parent-facing front carry, hip carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash cold

Ease of Putting On: Like all the ring slings I’ve tried, it takes some getting used to and certainly has a learning curve. But once you get it, it’s easy!

Wearer Comfort: Comfortable once you find the best fit – I would say it’s a bit scratchier than the Wildbird ring sling’s linen material.

Pros

• Two different carry positions can accommodate babies and toddlers
• Made with 100% cotton
• Offered at an affordable price

Cons

• It seems Moby may be phasing this carrier out because it’s only available new from Target’s website
• Ring slings can have a steep learning curve until you figure out the best fit

Ring Sling Comparisons

Overall Best Ring Sling Carrier: Wildbird Ring Sling
Affordability: Moby Ring Sling
Overall Comfort: Wildbird Ring Sling
Colors & Patterns Available: Wildbird Ring Sling

Top Picks for Buckle Baby Carriers

A buckle baby carrier, also called a soft structured carrier (SSC), is a baby carrier with padded shoulder straps, a supportive waist belt, and adjustable buckles. It’s one of the most popular types of baby carriers because it’s relatively easy to use and distributes your baby’s weight across both shoulders and your hips.

Baby Bjorn Carrier

The Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier Mini is a good buckle carrier option for newborns up to around 6 months of age. It provides good, structured support and it’s a carrier that moms and dads can wear. One of the things we love about it is how simple it is to put on!

Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier Mini

Price: $99.99
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 65% recycled polyester, 35% cotton
Weight Limit: 7-15 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front carry facing in or facing out
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash on warm, hang dry

Ease of Putting On: Super easy to put on, no wrapping or tying anything. It was so easy and I loved it because I was comfortable putting it on myself when I was home alone with my baby. Even my husband wore it because it was so simple and adjustable!

Wearer Comfort: A comfortable fit with more padded straps on the shoulders and the adjustable criss-cross back helped distribute weight more evenly.

Pros

• Super simple to put on, even my husband could do it easily!
• Size adjustment at the bottom for baby’s height, making it easier to figure out positioning
• Padded straps and criss-cross back provide more comfortable fit
• Compact and easy to fold up and stuff in the diaper bag

Cons

• It’s only recommended for newborns 7-15 lbs., so the window for using it is smaller. If your baby is longer, they can grow out of this one faster
• Remained comfortable for about 30-40 minutes before really feeling it in the shoulders

Ergobaby Embrace Carrier

I absolutely love the support the Ergobaby Embrace provides to the wearer. It’s comfortable to wear and easy to adjust for baby’s comfort, too. The criss-cross back really does wonders in keeping the baby supported while babywearing!

Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier

Price: $99
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 79% polyester, 17% rayon, 4% spandex
Weight Limit: 7-25 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Parent-facing carry, outward facing carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine washable

Ease of Putting On: I’ll preface this by saying you need to really read directions to make sure you’re using the right way. For baby’s under 11 pounds, you have to roll the waistband. But, once you read and figure it out, it’s easy to use and adjust for baby’s comfort.

Wearer Comfort: I love the support the Ergobaby Embrace offers! The criss-cross back and wider straps make it so comfy. I will say, the shoulders don’t stay put so you have to keep adjusting them.

Pros

• Newborn carrier that doesn’t require an infant insert (roll the waistband twice for small babies)
• Comfortable for wearer and baby with supportive criss-cross back
• Size inclusive, one size fits petite – 4XL
• Easy-on in 3 simple clicks
• Comes in lots of colors!

Cons

• This baby carrier isn’t made with natural fibers, so it’s not as breathable as other materials
• You really have to read the manual to wear this carrier properly – and the manual and directions could be more clear
• Limited use because it’s only designed to suit babies up to 25 lbs.
• Shoulder straps don’t stay put and require readjusting

Hope and Plum – Sprout Newborn Carrier

Hope and Plum’s Sprout carrier is easy to put on and offered in the cutest prints and colors. I love how much thought Hope and Plum put into their carrier designs. From the natural fibers used to being sewn in Minnesota, they truly care about making a great product that’s safe for baby. 

Use this link to save 10% on Hope and Plum.

Sprout Newborn Carrier

Price: $114-119
Carrier Type: Newborn buckle carrier
Material: 55% hemp, 45% organic cotton
Weight Limit: 7-25 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Parent-facing forward carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine washable

Ease of Putting On: Super easy to put on and the apron waist makes it easy to adjust. The manual is easy to read in order to get the right fit.

Wearer Comfort: The criss-cross back distributes weight more evenly and makes it more comfortable for the wearer. I love how lightweight and breathable it is – even on hot summer days.

Pros

• Apron-style waist sits higher so it’s more comfortable postpartum, especially for C-section moms
• Made with natural materials and available in fun, playful colors and prints
• Packs down to palm size for easy traveling
• Easy to get on and user manual is super helpful in finding the right fit
• Made in the USA under ethical working conditions!

Cons

• Since it’s a natural material, the thinner more breathable material is a trade off to the more structured support of the Ergobaby Embrace
• It isn’t as comfortable for the wearer as other carriers
• It’s expensive for a carrier that’s only used for up to 25 lbs.

Wildbird Aerial Carrier

The Wildbird Aerial Carrier is my overall favorite carrier for babies and toddlers. When I had my daughter, she wanted to be close at all times. This carrier literally saved me. While it says baby can start in this carrier at 7 lbs., it fits best from 10 lbs. and up. It’s the carrier I find myself reaching for the most.

Use this link to save 10% on Wildbird carriers.

Wildbird Aerial Buckle Carrier

Price: $178
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 100% natural linen
Weight Limit: 7-45 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Forward parent-facing and back carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash (or hand wash) in cool water, hang to dry

Ease of Putting On: You can easily put this carrier on independently. The back buckle loops through and around the back making it a carrier you step into and then click.

Wearer Comfort: Incredibly comfortable, this is the kind of carrier you can wear for hours. It’s breathable and provides great lumbar support.

Pros

• Offered in two sizes for maximum comfort
• Criss-cross back and waist belt gives great support
• Made from breathable, natural materials
• Additional headrest support flips up for younger babies or provides shade or more privacy for nursing
• This carrier is so easy to nurse in!

Cons

• While the carrier says it can accommodate 7 lbs.+, it fits 10 lbs. and up best
• The Wildbird Aerial cannot be used for outward facing carries
• Some users find the shoulder straps too bulky

Mabe Monarch Carrier

The Mabe Monarch Carrier is so cute and makes babywearing feel more fun! It’s most similar to the Wildbird Aerial buckle carrier and the Artipoppe in terms of support and design. I love the blend of cotton and linen fibers.

While you can technically start wearing it when your baby hits 9 lbs., I would say it’s best suited for 11-12lbs. (~4 months of age). I didn’t love how it fit my 9 lb. baby, but the fit got better as she grew.

Use this link to save 10%.

Mabe Monarch Carrier

Price: $129
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 88% cotton, 12% linen
Weight Limit: 9–45 lbs
Carrying Positions: Front carry parent-facing, back carry inward facing, front carry outward-facing
Cleaning Instructions: Hand wash or machine wash on gentle cycle in cold water, lay flat to dry. Head support should be unfolded and laying flat with the rest of the carrier.

Ease of Putting On: Simple and easy to put on!

Wearer Comfort: A comfortable cotton and linen blend that’s comfortable to wear for several hours. The straps are thick and supportive.

Pros

• The designs are so cute and make babywearing feel fun and stylish
• Super comfortable to wear for longer periods of time
• Easy to nurse in
• Easy on and off

Cons

• While you can technically start wearing it when your baby hits 9 lbs., I would say it’s best suited for 11/12 lbs. (~4 months of age)

Artipoppe Baby Carrier

While you pay a pretty, pretty penny for the Artipoppe Baby Carrier, I will say it’s the most comfortable buckle carrier I’ve worn. The supportive hip belt and reinforced shoulder straps makes it feel like you aren’t even wearing a baby. But the price, it’s steep. (I would say borderline crazy.) I got this baby carrier as a gift, because I really wouldn’t spend this type of money on a carrier normally.

Artipoppe Baby Carrier

Price: $440-$860+ (depending on color, pattern, and material)
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 70% organic cotton, 30% cotton
Weight Limit: 7-45 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front carry parent-facing, front carry outward-facing, back carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine washable

Ease of Putting On: So easy to put on!

Wearer Comfort: The comfiest buckle carrier for mom. The supportive hip belt and reinforced shoulder straps makes it feel like you aren’t even wearing a baby, forreal.

Pros

• Most comfortable buckle carrier for wearers, hands down
• The adjustable neck cushion is great for providing newborns some extra neck support and for blocking the sun when outside
• Padded shoulder straps and padded waistband for lumbar support
• Made with natural fibers

Cons

• The price point is insanely high, it’s not an attainable baby carrier for most (mine was a gift, I never would have bought it on my own!)

Comparisons

The Wildbird Aerial and Mabe Monarch Carrier are lower pricepoint alternatives with natural fibers and similar fits.

Tula Free-To-Grow

The Tula Free-to-Grow carrier was the first buckle carrier I bought and used. While the utility of it is great (it supports the newborn size really well), the overall comfort for the wearer lacked. I did appreciate the sun shade for protecting baby on walks, and that it’s 100% cotton.

Tula Free-to-Grow Carrier

Price: $179
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 100% cotton (does come in a linen option as well)
Weight Limit: 7-45 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front parent-facing, back carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash gentle cycle, hang dry

Ease of Putting On: The “H” style back makes it harder to put on compared to other similar criss-cross back carriers.

Wearer Comfort: I found it to be less comfortable than criss-cross back carriers and feel like comfort is where this carrier really lacks.

Pros

• Made with 100% cotton, so natural and breathable fibers
• It fits really well for newborns 7 lbs.+ and can hold toddlers up to 45 lbs.
• Removable sun hood and large pocket for storage
• Carry from the front or the back

Cons

• While it fits small babies well, it really lacks in comfort
• More difficult to put on

Tula Explore Baby Carrier

The Tula Explore Baby Carrier is very similar to its Free to Grow counterpart. The biggest difference is the Explore allows for a front outward-facing carry. You also have more materials to choose from, and the carrier comes in more colors and designs. 

Tula Explore Baby Carrier

Price: $159-219 (depending on color/print)
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: Available in mesh, cotton, linen, or hemp
Weight Limit: 7-45 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Parent-facing inward, front outward facing, back carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash on gentle cycle and hang to dry.

Ease of Putting On: Since it’s an H-back carrier, it’s a little harder to put on compared to other criss-cross back options.

Wearer Comfort: The linen and cotton materials are lightweight and breathable, but it’s not as comfortable as other similar carriers like the Wildbird Aerial.

Pros

• Fits newborns to 45 lbs. and offers 3 different carry positions
• Provides lumbar support for caregivers
• Multiple natural fibers available and great color and print options
• Great for curious little ones who want to face outward and see the world around them!

Cons

• Not as comfortable as criss-cross back buckle carriers
• Harder to get on solo, and comes at a steeper price point

Hope and Plum – Lark Carrier

The Hope and Plum Lark baby carrier is one I love not only because it’s made with natural fibers but it’s also made in Minnesota under ethical working conditions. This carrier is comfy and great for bigger babies, too. I think it fits best once your baby hits about 12 lbs. 

Use this link to save 10% on Hope and Plum.

Hope and Plum Lark Carrier

Price: $195-$235 (depending on material)
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: 55% Hemp, 45% Cotton or Linen/Cotton blend
Weight Limit: 10-45 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Parent-facing front carry or back carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle (laundry bag recommended), and hang dry

Ease of Putting On: This carrier is very easy to put on, and the apron waist makes adjusting it very easy as your baby grows.

Wearer Comfort: Comfy and breathable! The straps are nice and thick, adding some additional comfort, too.

Pros

• Made of natural fibers making it so breathable and comfortable
• So many beautiful colors and prints to choose from
• Criss cross back and apron waist make it easy to put on within 30 seconds or less
• Shoulder straps are padded with cotton batting and not synthetic fibers
• Woman-owned company and made in the USA!
• Hope and Plum offers free fit checks to customers

Cons

• While it says 10 pounds min it’s really best for 12+ pounds or 4 months+
• The buckles don’t slide in and click super easily. They have to be lined up perfectly to go in, which can be difficult with a squirmy baby
• Drool pads are recommended to increase the carrier’s longevity and they’re an added cost

Ergobaby Omni 360

I used the Ergobaby Omni 360 carrier with my first baby. I liked that it offered decent support and a variety of carry positions. However, I did find it way tougher to get on by myself, especially in comparison to a lot of the baby carriers I’ve been using lately.

Ergobaby Omni 360 Carrier

Price: $179
Carrier Type: Buckle carrier
Material: Available in mesh (100% polyester) or 100% cotton
Weight Limit: 7-45 lbs.
Carrying Positions: Front parent-facing, Front outward-facing, Back carry, Hip carry
Cleaning Instructions: Machine washable, hang dry

Ease of Putting On: Not the easiest to put on, you likely need another person to help you with clipping it behind the back.

Wearer Comfort: I don’t think this carrier is the most comfortable, especially when wearing it for longer periods of time, or as your little one gets heavier.

Pros

• Padded waist belt for additional lumbar support
• Wear it with a criss-cross back or H-back option, whatever is most comfortable
• Offers 4 different carry positions for maximum versatility
• Durable materials last a long time
• Has a more masculine aesthetic so Dads might like to wear it, too

Cons

• Very difficult to put on alone
• Infant insert required for newborns
• Not the most comfortable, especially when wearing for prolonged periods of time

Buckle Baby Carrier Comparisons

Here’s a breakdown of which I liked best and some other ratings.

Overall Best Buckle Carrier: Wildbird Aerial – it’s supportive at a good price point, available in pretty colors and prints, and offers multiple carrying positions
Most Supportive & Comfortable: Artipoppe Baby Carrier (but wow, that’s a lot of money)
Most Similar Fits: Wildbird Aerial, Mabe Monarch, Artipoppe
Best Bang for Your Buck: Wildbird Aerial Carrier
Most Carry Positions: Tula Explore Baby Carrier

The Best Hip Carrier for Baby & Toddler

A hip carrier is a baby carrier designed to support a child on your hip, making it easier to carry them while reducing the strain on your arms. There are a few different styles, but they all aim to make frequent “up and down” carrying more comfortable.

Tushbaby Hip Carrier

If you’ve been following me for awhile, you know the Tushbaby Hip Carrier is one of my favorite carriers. It’s by far the best hip carrier on the market and I love it so much I keep one at home and in both of our cars. Even my husband uses it a lot! 

The Tushbaby saves your back and arms, and it offers so much storage it’s essentially like a mini diaper bag. We love this hip carrier and reach for it daily!

Use this link and code EATPLAY for at least 16% off your Tushbaby.

Tushbaby Hip Carrier

Price: $85-$115 depending on color and material
Carrier Type: Hip carrier
Material: 100% Polyurethane
Weight Limit: 7-45 lbs. (birth to 3 years)
Carrying Positions: Feeding position (newborn+), Face-to-face position (4mo.+), Side-carrying position (4mo.+), Forward-facing position (6mo.+)
Cleaning Instructions: Wipe down clean with a damp cloth. Do not machine wash.

Ease of Putting On: So easy to put on, just wrap it around yourself using the Velcro, then clip the buckle. The hardest part is getting a really snug and tight fit for better wearer support. But, with time you get it!

Wearer Comfort: It’s super comfortable to wear as long as you get it nice and tight. I like to wrap mine tightly just below my bra so when I wear my little one, it stays high even if it sags a bit from my toddler’s weight. Sometimes you need to readjust if it feels like it’s digging in, but that’s usually my own user error.

Pros

• You can wear this for long periods of time and it takes the stress off your back
• Allows for frequent ups and downs with busier babies and toddlers
• So many storage options! It can hold a diaper, small pack of wipes, and your little’s water bottle
• Super easy to put on, and even my husband loves it!

Cons

• Made with synthetic fibers, so may not be the best fit for families prioritizing natural fibers
• While it says this carrier is good for birth through age 3, only the feeding position is safe for newborns. You can start hip carrying around 4 months of age when your little one has better neck control.
• Some parents with shorter torsos have commented that this carrier is not comfortable

Which baby carrier should you buy?

I just gave you the breakdown on 19 baby carriers, but of course you don’t need them all. The truth is that one or two carriers will likely be enough. I suggest grabbing one or two of our top picks for newborns, like the Hope and Plum Wrap and/or the Tushbaby Pearl. And for long-term use as baby grows into a toddler, I suggest the Wildbird Aerial buckle or one of the similar options.

The best baby carrier for you will be one that you like to wear and that baby fits well in. That may look different for everyone! So pick the one that you thing will be best for you and have fun baby wearing. Most brands offer customer service fit checks if you feel like you need some 1:1 guidance. Or you can try to find a baby wearing specialist virtually or near you for 1:1 help!

Looking for more?

We broke down the best infant car seats and travel strollers for every type of adventure.

Learn more about all our tips for traveling with kids! Hint: we highly recommend a good carrier.