How to Choose the Right Baby Carrier for You and Your Baby

Quick answer: Choose the carrier type that matches your baby's age and your routine: stretchy wraps suit newborns and maximum contact, woven wraps give the most versatility from newborn to toddler, ring slings are quick for in-and-out use, soft structured carriers suit longer carries and heavier babies, and meh dais offer adjustability. Whichever you pick, follow the TICKS rules and the M-shape position.

What parents need to know

Babywearing — the practice of carrying your baby in a carrier or sling — has been used by parents worldwide for thousands of years. Modern baby carriers bring that ancient wisdom together with ergonomic design and convenience. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose?

Why carry your baby?

Beyond the convenience, research supports benefits of babywearing:

• Promotes bonding: Close physical contact supports attachment, regulates your baby's heartbeat, temperature, and breathing.
• Reduces crying: Studies show carried babies cry significantly less than those who aren't.
• Supports development: The upright position and movement of a carrier stimulates your baby's vestibular system, supporting balance and coordination.
• Frees your hands: You can get on with daily life while keeping your baby content and close.
• Feeding: It is not safe to feed your baby while they are in a sling or carrier. If you need to feed your baby, take them out of the sling first.

The TICKS rules for safe babywearing

Before choosing any carrier, know the Sling Consortium's TICKS guidelines for safe carrying:

• T – Tight: The carrier should be tight enough that your baby doesn't slump.
• I – In view at all times: You should always be able to see your baby's face without moving the fabric.
• C – Close enough to kiss: Your baby's head should be close enough that you can bend and kiss their head.
• K – Keep chin off chest: Your baby's chin should never be on their chest. This can restrict the airway.
• S – Supported back: Your baby's back should be supported in a natural, slightly curved position.

Do not let the sling or carrier fabric cover your baby's head, and make sure nothing is covering their face. This is especially important for babies under four months old. If your baby was born prematurely, with a low birth weight or has a medical condition, talk to a health professional before using a carrier or sling. Never sleep while wearing your baby in a sling or carrier.

Types of baby carriers

Stretchy wraps

Made of stretchy jersey fabric, these are ideal for newborns and young babies. They mould around both parent and baby, providing close, cocoon-like contact. They take practice to tie correctly but are comfortable once mastered. Not suitable for heavy toddlers as the stretch can cause the baby to sag.

Best for: Newborns, first-time babywearers, those who want maximum contact.

Woven wraps

Non-stretchy fabric that can be tied in a multitude of ways, suitable from newborn to toddler. More versatile than stretchy wraps but with a steeper learning curve. Can be used for front, hip, and back carries.

Best for: Parents who want maximum versatility and don't mind the learning curve.

Ring slings

A length of fabric threaded through two rings, adjusted by pulling the fabric tail. Quick to put on and take off, great for frequent in-and-out use. Suitable from newborn (with proper positioning) to toddler.

Best for: Parents who want something quick and easy; useful for hip carrying with older babies.

Soft structured carriers (SSCs)

Buckle-based carriers with padded waistbands and shoulder straps. The most popular category in the UK. Brands like Ergobaby, BabyBjorn, and Lillebaby are well-known examples. Most have an infant insert for newborns, or a newborn-specific model. Faster to put on than wraps and easy to share between two caregivers.

Best for: Parents who want simplicity and convenience; great for longer carries and heavier babies.

Meh dais

A hybrid between a wrap and an SSC, with a square body panel and long tie straps. Very adjustable and compact. Slightly more learning involved than an SSC but more flexible fit.

Best for: Parents who want adjustability with a structured panel.

Ergonomic position: the M-shape

Whatever carrier you choose, make sure it supports the ergonomic "M-shape" or "froggy position": your baby's knees should be higher than their bottom, with their legs in a wide squat position. This is the position recommended by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as healthiest for hip development.

Carriers that let babies' legs dangle straight down are not ergonomically recommended.

Getting a sling library fitting

Before buying, consider visiting a UK sling library or sling meet. Trained peer supporters can help you try different carriers and ensure the fit is safe and comfortable. Find your nearest via the Carrying Matters website.

Frequently asked questions

What are the TICKS rules for babywearing?

TICKS stands for Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off chest, and Supported back. They are the Sling Consortium's guidelines for carrying your baby safely.

Which baby carrier is best for a newborn?

Stretchy wraps are ideal for newborns, moulding around parent and baby for close contact. Woven wraps suit newborn to toddler, ring slings are suitable from newborn with proper positioning, and most soft structured carriers have an infant insert or newborn-specific model.

What is the M-shape position in a baby carrier?

Your baby's knees should sit higher than their bottom, legs in a wide squat. The International Hip Dysplasia Institute recommends this as healthiest for hip development. Carriers letting legs dangle straight down are not ergonomically recommended.

Where can I try baby carriers before buying in the UK?

Visit a UK sling library or sling meet, where trained peer supporters help you try different carriers and check the fit is safe and comfortable. Find your nearest via the Carrying Matters website.