7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Baby Carrier

As a parent, finding the right baby carrier can seem a bit overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to make a mistake when choosing the best one for you and your little one. Fortunately, a little bit of guidance can help you avoid some of the most common pitfalls. 

Here are some common mistakes that parents make when buying carriers for baby, and how you can avoid them:

• Buying a carrier without doing your due diligence. Baby carriers are not a one-size fits all product. It’s important to try on the baby wrap carrier and make sure it fits properly before making a purchase. The carrier should be comfortable for both you and your baby, and it should distribute your baby’s weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders. Don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson for assistance in trying on the carrier, and be sure to spend some time walking around the store with your baby in the carrier to ensure it’s comfortable for both of you. If you can’t try a carrier on in person, make sure the product you’re considering has a good return policy in case it doesn’t meet your needs. 
• Choosing a carrier outside of your baby’s age and weight range. Different baby carriers are designed for different age ranges and weight limits. Be sure to choose a carrier that is appropriate for your baby’s age and size to ensure that it’s safe and comfortable for both of you. Also, check with the manufacturer to see if you’ll need to use an infant insert for your newborn.  
• Not considering your own comfort. As a parent, you’ll be carrying your baby in the carrier for extended periods of time, so it’s important to choose a carrier that is comfortable for you as well. Look for a carrier with padded straps and a waist belt to distribute your baby’s weight evenly and prevent strain on your back and shoulders. Also, look for a carrier that comes with well-designed buckles that are easy to undo. You might want to buy a carrier for multiple wearers – this way, other people in your household can also carry your baby.   
• Disregarding your lifestyle. Your baby carrier should be suitable for your lifestyle and the activities you enjoy. A carrier helps make the transition to parenthood as smooth as possible. It’s important that your chosen carrier will suit your lifestyle with your little one in tow. For example, if you love hiking and outdoor adventures, you’ll need a carrier that is sturdy and easy to clean. If you’re a city dweller, you’ll need a carrier that is lightweight and sleek enough to maneuver on crowded streets and public transportation. If you have busy schedules, look for a baby carrier that’s easy to wash and convenient to carry around.   
• Purchasing a carrier that is not ergonomically designed. The position of your baby in the carrier is important for their comfort and development. Look for a carrier that allows your baby to sit in an ergonomic position, with their hips and knees bent. This “M” position is important for your baby’s spine and hip development. Make sure that the carrier you end up buying has been certified by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as a hip-healthy product.   
• Picking a random fabric. Baby carriers come in a variety of fabric materials. Choose one that is breathable and gentle on the baby’s skin. If you live in a hotter climate, opt for mesh fabric that will keep your baby cool even during humid days, such as the Tula baby carriers from the brand’s Coast Collection.  
• Not planning for the future. Newborn carriers are an investment, so instead of buying a carrier that’s only great for right now, save money by finding one that your baby can use for months (or even years) to come. Many brands have designed adjustable carriers that will carry your baby from infancy to toddlerhood, and will adjust to your growing family.   

Babywearing keeps your baby safe and happy while making your life as a parent easier, which is why choosing the best infant carrier is an important decision for any parent. Be sure to try the carrier before buying, consider your baby’s age and weight, your own comfort, your lifestyle, and the position of your baby in the carrier to make the best choice for you and your little one.