Best Baby Carriers
When it comes to keeping your little bundle of joy snug and secure while you go about your day, baby carriers are your trusty sidekicks. But with endless options on the market, how do you land the best one for your needs? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the 10 best baby carriers on the market in 2023. Whether you’re a first-time parent or an expert in the field, you’ll find the right one that tends to your needs and keeps your baby comfortable.
If you also need a stroller or a baby monitor, check out my ‘Best Strollers for Babies and Toddlers’ and ‘Best Baby Monitors’ guides!
A Brief Glimpse into the 10 Best Baby Carriers in 2023
Before we get right to business, here’s a brief glimpse into the best baby carriers on the market currently.
- Baby Bjorn Harmony – Best Overall
- LilleBaby Complete All Seasons – Runner Up
- Tula Explore – Best for Toddlers
- Boba Baby Wrap Carrier – Ideal for Newborns
- Ergobaby Omni Breeze – Best for Hot Summer Days
- Moby Classic Wrap – Best for Breastfeeding
- Kelty Journey PerfectFit Elite – Best for Hiking
- TwinGo Original – Best for Twins
- Baby K’Tan – Easiest Wrap Carrier to Wear
- Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 – Best Value for Money
Detailed Reviews of the 10 Best Baby Carriers in 2023
Now, let’s go through the standout features, pros, and cons of each carrier.
1. Baby Bjorn Harmony – Best Overall
It wasn’t difficult to choose my favorite baby carrier on the list because Baby Bjorn Harmony exceeded my expectations by a mile. It’s an ergonomic carrier that comes with padded shoulder straps, back support, and a pressure-relieving belt to guarantee the parent’s comfort.
As for the baby’s comfort, the carrier comes with a three-position head support that protects your baby’s spine and neck during the first few months of their lives. It’s also made from breathable mesh that is machine-washable and dries quickly.
The carrier takes newborns from 7 to 40 lbs, which means it can be your baby’s best friend for two or three years. Because of the various head support positions, you can carry your baby on your back or front, in which case you have the option to leave them facing out or in. However, you should only try the face-out position if your baby is old enough to support their head.
The only feature I disliked about this carrier is its over-the-top price, as it’s pricier than most options on my list. Although, I have to say that its cushiony material and the comfort it provides made up for the dent in my wallet!
Pros:
- Available in three colors (silver, navy blue, and anthracite)
- The child range is 0-3 years
- Ergonomic for both parent and baby
- Includes poppers for easy attachment
Cons:
- Pricier than the average baby carrier
2. LilleBaby Complete All Seasons – Runner Up
The LilleBaby Complete All Seasons is an all-position carrier that you can use in six different positions. It features padded shoulder straps that don’t irritate your shoulders, even on hot summer days. On top of that, it includes lumbar support, an extendable waist belt, and a temperature panel to keep your baby warm on cold days and refreshed on hot days.
To guarantee your baby is comfortable at any age, the carrier comes with an adjustable seat. Now, this is my favorite feature because it promotes healthy hip development in infants and toddlers.
The positions that you can try with this carrier are front fetal, infant inward, ergonomic outward, toddler inward, hip carry, and back carry. They’re all equally comfortable and can accommodate your baby from 0-18 months.
While the carrier is extremely soft and light on the shoulders, I found it pretty uncomfortable for breastfeeding. However, I’d still buy it any day despite this point!
Pros:
- Available in 14 colors, suitable for both genders and all tastes
- Front-hip-back carrying
- Airflow mesh panel for hot days
- High-quality, soft fabrics
Cons:
- Uncomfortable for breastfeeding
3. Tula Explore – Best for Toddlers
The Tula Explore baby carrier proves ideal for toddlers with its excellent adjustability, comfortable padding, and ergonomic baby seat. It features padded shoulders for you and a neck support pillow for your baby, along with adjustable thigh supports and a wide waist belt.
The carrier has a practical storage pocket where you can put your phone and keys while carrying your baby. Also, it’s manufactured from top-notch breathable cotton that won’t make you feel stuffy at all, even during the summer.
That said, my favorite feature yet is its removable hood, which gives you a chance to feed your baby privately. Also, the carrier can take babies up to four years or 45 lbs, and you can use it in six different positions.
Better yet, you don’t have to worry about your baby’s spine and hip development with this carrier. It boasts an ergonomic seat with padded leg openings that leave enough space for your baby to be comfortable. The Tula Explore’s only issue is its price, which might be a bit too much for some budgets.
Pros:
- Available in six designs and colors
- Has a storage pocket for convenience
- Includes a removable hood
- Manufactured from machine-washable soft cotton
Cons:
- Might be pricey for some people
4. Boba Baby Wrap Carrier – Ideal for Newborns
While the Tula Explore exceeds expectations for toddlers, the Boba Baby Wrap Carrier is the top choice for newborns. The carrier stimulates the womb environment for babies, making them feel safe and helping them fall asleep faster. It’s one-size-fits-all to accommodate parents of all sizes, and it handles babies from 7-35 lbs.
The carrier’s standout feature is its manufacturing material. It’s made from 95% cotton and 5% spandex to balance between stretchiness and breathability. Best of all, it’s machine-washable and dryer-proof, so you don’t need to worry if it gets stained.
The Boba carrier is deemed ‘Hip Healthy’ by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI), so you can rest assured that your baby will grow comfortably inside it. It’s also ergonomic for parents because it distributes weight on both shoulders and the back.
While it comes with wrap-and-wear instructions, I found wearing the carrier a bit challenging at first. Nothing time and practice can’t fix, but structured carriers are much easier to throw on.
Pros:
- Available in 14 colors
- Ideal for breastfeeding
- Machine-washable
- Affordable
Cons:
- Difficult to wear at first
5. Ergobaby Omni Breeze – Best for Hot Summer Days
Holding a baby close to your body on a hot summer day is a famous parenthood challenge, but the Ergobaby Omni Breeze helped me get over it. Manufactured with parent comfort as a priority, the carrier is made from a breathable fabric called SoftFlex Mesh to improve airflow and keep sweat to a minimum. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures and picnics in the summer.
Not only that, but the Ergobaby carrier also takes babies from 7 to 45 lbs in many carry modes. You can carry your baby on your back, side, and front, no matter what direction they’re facing.
To maximize comfort, the carrier features padded shoulder straps, cushioned lumbar support, and an adjustable waist belt that fits from 25 to 55 inches. Also, it has a small storage pocket where you can put your personal belongings while walking and a hood for sun protection.
Although the Omni Breeze is made from lightweight materials, it can feel a little bulky, especially for short or small-sized people.
Pros:
- Available in 13 colors
- Breathable and lightweight
- Pocket storage and protective hood included
- All-position carrier
Cons:
- A bit bulky
6. Moby Classic Wrap – Best for Breastfeeding
If you spend a lot of time outside and often need to breastfeed outdoors, you’ll love the Moby Classic Wrap. After its name, it only offers classic features without any luxurious options, but it gives you just the right amount of coziness and privacy you need. The wrap carrier is made from 100% cotton, boosting its breathability and softness on the skin.
The lack of padding makes it easier to breastfeed outside and enhances your baby’s feeling of safety, as there are no barriers between you two. It’s 18 feet long and supports babies up to 35 lbs. As a plus, you can use the wrap as a blanket when not in use. It’s also suitable for many carrying styles, including front, back, and side.
That said, this carrier’s remarkable feature is the support the brand offers for first-time parents. Moby has a Let Us Help You program on their website that lets you consult with wrap experts. Also, it provides easy-to-follow instructions on multiple wearing styles with each wrap.
The only drawback I can mention here is the lack of storage pockets, protective hoods, and other convenient features for days spent outside.
Pros:
- Soft and machine-washable manufacturing material
- Versatile
- Excellent customer support from Moby
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Might be too basic for people who appreciate luxury
7. Kelty Journey PerfectFit Elite – Best for Hiking
Did you have to put your hiking days behind you because of the inconvenience of taking your baby along? Rest assured that the Kelty Journey PerfectFit Elite is here to bring you back to your adventurous days. It’s the ultimate carrier for hiking with its 5-point safety harness system, stability frame, and cozy chair.
The carrier comes with adjustable shoulder straps, load lifters, and a waist belt to distribute your baby’s weight evenly on your back and shoulder. Its seat is wide enough for your toddler to sit comfortably and is padded from all sides to minimize the feeling of road bumps.
For extra convenience, the Kelty carrier has an aluminum kickstand that you can use to stabilize it on the ground. It also has large zippered storage pockets that can fit snacks, personal belongings, and the hiking souvenirs you collect along the way.
The carrier weighs 7 lbs and can carry up to 48 lbs in weight, but it’s suitable for babies 6 months and older only. It’s also a bit pricey, but that’s understandable, considering all the exceptional features and safety it offers.
Pros:
- 5-point harness system and padded seat for added comfort and safety
- Aluminum kickstand available for more convenience
- Includes large storage pockets
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Suitable for babies 6 months and older only
8. TwinGo Original – Best for Twins
Carrying two babies at once seems close to impossible, but the TwinGo Original baby carrier makes it a breeze. It’s an adjustable tandem carrier that can be separated into two carriers, one for each parent. It carries babies from 10 to 45 lbs each and distributes weight perfectly on the parent’s front and back to avoid straining from carrying two children.
More than that, the carrier features adjustable padded shoulder straps and is ergonomically designed to support your baby’s hip and spine development. The best part about getting this carrier is that it’s more affordable than buying two separate carriers, and we all know how twin parents need every penny around!
Designed with convenience in mind, the TwinGo carriers include hoods for rainy or sunny days and are manufactured from machine-washable fabrics. They also feature storage pockets large enough that you might not need a handbag.
The only setback that this carrier has is the inconvenience of breastfeeding while wearing it. It’s too bulky and might feel stuffy if you breastfeed inside it.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Protective hood and storage pockets included
- Adjustable waist belt to fit both mothers and fathers
- Padded shoulder straps for more comfort
Cons:
- Not suitable for breastfeeding
9. Baby K’Tan – Easiest Wrap Carrier to Wear
I used to prefer structured carriers to wraps because of the ease of wear, but the Baby K’Tan wrap completely changed my mind. It’s a ring wrap that comes ready to wear out of the box with no need for any complicated knots. You’ll also find easy instructions in the package, telling you how to wrap it around your body correctly.
The wrap is made from soft and breathable cotton, so you can throw it in your washing machine and dryer without worrying about tearing. It comes in multiple sizes to fit all parents, and it can take up to 35 lbs in baby weight. If you choose the correct size, your baby will be perfectly snug inside, not too stuffed or too loose.
To prevent back strain, the carrier has a patented double-loop design that distributes weight properly around your body. It also features head support for your baby and comes with a carrier bag so that you don’t have to keep it wrapped around you when not in use.
The only inconvenient feature of this carrier is the lack of storage pockets, but it wouldn’t stop me from buying it.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable manufacturing material
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to wear and take off
- Available in all sizes
Cons:
- No storage pocket or protective hood
10. Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 – Best Value for Money
Normally, the more features a carrier has, the higher its price is, but the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 carrier breaks this rule with its exceptional value for money. It’s suitable for most budgets because it comes at a low price, and it’s packed with useful features.
For one, it boasts an ergonomic baby seat and padded shoulder straps and waist belt to ensure a comfortable fit. Also, it takes babies from 8 to 32 pounds, which means you can use it for two or more years.
The Infantino carrier allows multiple carrying positions, including front inward, front outward, and back inward. It’s available in seven gender-friendly colors that satisfy every taste. However, it lacks convenient features, like a protective hood or a storage pocket.
To make you as comfortable as possible while walking, the carrier offers lumbar support and is made from a lightweight material that won’t make you feel stuffy. As a bonus, it’s machine-washable!
Pros:
- Four possible carrying positions
- Suitable for newborns and toddlers
- Lightweight and breezy material
- Machine-washable
Cons:
- No luxurious features
How to Choose the Best Baby Carrier for You
There are a few features to consider while shopping for a carrier to ensure you get the right match for you and your baby. Here’s a quick list of them.
Fit
Baby carriers are often used by both parents, who have different body shapes and sizes. If you plan on sharing your carrier with your partner, you need to consider its fit while buying.
Make sure it can be adjusted to fit both of you comfortably without being too stuffy or too loose. You can do so by checking the maximum waist size the carrier allows.
Ease of Wear
You might need to wear your baby carrier multiple times throughout the day, so it needs to be easy to use. Wrap carriers are naturally more challenging to wear because they don’t have specific attachments. Instead, you wrap them around your body and tie them, which can be inconvenient if you’re alone.
On the other hand, structured carriers are easier to wear because you only have to connect the latches to their designated openings. Their only issue is that they’re bulkier, and thus less comfortable than wraps. In the end, it depends on your personal preference, as each type has its pros and cons.
Manufacturing Material
Having a warm body stuck to yours while outside isn’t the most refreshing feeling in the world, but choosing the right carrier material can make all the difference.
Some materials, like cotton, are extremely breathable and lightweight, so they won’t make you feel hot at all. Meanwhile, other materials, like spandex, can make you feel a bit sticky. Also, for more convenience, you should make sure your carrier’s material is machine-washable.
Ergonomics
To protect your back and shoulder from strain, you should make sure the carrier you’re buying is ergonomically designed. Ideally, it should have padded shoulders and a waist belt that offers lumbar support. Also, the weight of your baby should be equally distributed over your shoulders and back.
Common Questions Asked by Parents!
Are Carriers Safe for Newborns?
Carriers are safe for newborns 7 lbs and heavier. They offer head and neck support till your baby is old enough, and they create a womb-like environment. However, wearing them properly is key to ensuring your baby’s safety. If it’s your first time using a carrier, it’s better to consult your pediatrician about the safest carrying position.
When Can I Carry My Baby Facing Outward in a Carrier?
It’s recommended you carry your baby facing outward after 6 months or more. The reason for this is that the face inward position supports healthier hip development, while the outward position doesn’t offer the same privilege.
What Is the Longest Time a Baby Can Sit Inside a Carrier?
To ensure your baby’s hips develop healthily, you shouldn’t put them inside a carrier for more than two hours at a time. Ideally, you should take them out for an hour or so and then put them inside again. Doing so will also improve your baby’s mobility all around.
To Wrap Up
Buying the right baby carrier will spare you the hassle of carrying your baby in your arms all day. My top recommendation is the Baby Bjorn Harmony for the adjustability, comfort, and safety it provides. While it’s pricier than many options on my list, it’s worth every penny.
However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can take a look at the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1. It has all the features you need in a baby carrier and comes at a reasonable price, suitable for every budget.
Finally, if you prefer wraps to structured carriers, look no further than the Boba Baby Wrap for breezy everyday strolls without any feeling of stuffiness.