Baby Carriers & YOU
By Dr. Heidi Knorr, Chiropractor
Have you been thinking about which baby carrier is best to buy for comfort and ease of travel when your little one arrives? In Australia there are multiple options out there to choose from. These include structured carriers, stretchy and woven wraps, ring slings, Mei tai, hybrid carriers, hiking carriers, and hip carriers. What a mine field!
Let’s start however, with safe baby-wearing recommendations. You should ….
Choose A Carrier That Meets International Safety Standards
(Australia doesn’t have its own!)
The carrier should be certified under ASTM F2236-16 (USA) or EN 13209-2 (EU).
This standard ensures secure fastenings, ergonomic support and durability.
Follow the T.I.C.K.S. Rule for Safe Babywearing
These were developed by baby wearing experts to prevent suffocation and poor posture
- Tight: baby should be held snuggly against your body.
- In view at all times (baby’s face should be visible).
- Close enough to kiss (head close for your to kiss
- Keep chin off chest (chin should not be pressed into their chest)
- Supported back: baby’s back should be in a naturally supported position
Carriers Should Be Age-Appropriate
- Newborns need head and neck support
- Toddlers do best in carriers with lumbar support and wider seats
Ergonomic positioning
- Baby’s knees should be higher than there bottom in an “M” shape
- Avoid carriers that let baby dangle by the crotch
Practice Before Going Out
- Try the carrier at home first
- Use a mirror or get help from a trained baby wearing consultant
Dress Baby Appropriately
- Carriers can be warm – dress baby in light layers
- Use sun protection outdoors
Stay Alert to Baby’s Cues
- Watch for signs of overheating, restricted breathing or discomfort
Below, you will find a collation of multiple expert reviews and parental feedback to assist you in choosing the right baby and toddler carrier for you and your growing family!
| Brand | Best For | Age | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Reds Baby Connect Plus | Versatility | 0-3 years 3.2 to 20kg | $209 | Adjustable, ergonomic, suitable for various carrying positions.Can be complicated to adjust |
| Manduca | Comfort | 0-3 years 3.2 to 20kg | $109.95 | Soft fabric, good for wide-shouldered dads. Might not be suitable if you have back troubles |
Reds baby Connect Wrap | Ease of Use | 0-6 months 3.2 to 11kg | $79 | Easy to put on, secure fit, comfortable for both parent and baby |
Hug-a-bub carrier | Newborns | 0-6months 3.2 to 14kg | $89 | Soft, supportive, ideal for newborns. Some find it fiddly and impractical for public use |
Baby Bjorn One Carrier | Dads | 0-3 years 3.5 to 15 kg | $270 | Lightweight, breathable, easy to adjust. Might not suit those with poor upper body strength |
Ergobaby Omni Breeze | Breathability | 0-20kg 3.2 to 20kg | $349 | Mesh panels, good airflow, comfortable for long periods |
Ergobaby Aerloom Carrier | Eco-friendly | 3.2 – 15.9kg | $249 – 499 | Made from recycled materials, adjustable fit |
Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier | Hiking Carrier Toddlers | 9 months to 3 years 7.2 to 22kg | $299 | Structured, durable, suitable for outdoor adventures |
Phil and Ted’s Parade Carrier | Toddlers | 1-3 years 7.5 to 18kg | $199 | Versatile, adjustable, great for older toddlers |
Moby Cloud Hybrid Carrier | Hybrid Wrap | 0-3 years 3.5 to 15kg | $159 | Combination of wrap and buckle carrier, flexible fit |
LILLE baby Elevate Carrier | Customisable | 0-3 years (3.2 to 20kg) | $249 | Multiple carrying positions, padded shoulder straps |
Mia Mily Hipster Plus 3D Carrier | Fuss-Free | 0-4 years up to 20kg | $129 | Easy to use, comfortable for both parent and baby, multiple carry positions, extra storage |
Baby Dink Classic Organic Carrier | No Wrap | 0-5 month 2-8kg | $99 | Organic materials, simple design, easy to use. Good for premmies |
| Tula Toddler Carrier | Durability | 0-6 years 11 to 27kg | $299 | Comfort, ease of use durability. Good for front and back carries and for all wearers |
Baby Carrier for Dads
- Baby Bjorn One Carrier: A firm favourite, this carrier is specifically designed with dads in mind, offering a comfortable and secure fit for both parent and baby in 4 carry positions including the backpack style. ($270-320)
- Manduca: Great for dads with wide shoulders and a large frame, it has a strong lumbar support providing a comfortable carrying experience and as a bonus, is made of organic cotton.
- Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh: This carrier is fully adjustable and suitable for all body types. It supports multiple carry positions and has breathable mesh for active wear.
- Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier: Ideal for dads who enjoy outdoor activities, offering a structured and durable design. ($375-550)
- Lillebaby Complete All Seasons – boasting 6 different carry positions dads are impressed with this carrier. It even has UPF 50+ sun protection with its breathable mesh and cotton combo ($179)
- Beco Gemini Baby Carrier – With an ergonomic design, easy-to-use buckles and stylish neutral colors, dad wouldn't give this a go. ($200)
When choosing your baby carrier please bear in mind that an infant should not be carried forward facing until they are at least 6 months old AND they have good head control and core strength. If the carrier is not specifically designed for forward facing ergonomically then it is time to get a different carrier.
Why?
- To protect the delicate neck muscles and spine.
- Forward facing will expose baby to more sensory input which can be overwhelming.
- Forward -facing positions can compromise the "M" shape leg position if not designed properly and can present a problem for hip dysplasia
Even after 6 months, forward -facing carries should be limited to 20-30 mins at a time in conjunction with watching for signs of over stimulation, and fatigue and discomfort
References. www.productreview.com.au, www.babyvillage.com.au
Need help with baby wearing?
I can recommend Natalie Esguerra who is a Certified Babywearing Educator and consultant here on the Central Coast. I met her at our local Baby and parenting Expo and she is the expert in baby wearing wraps and twins! You can email her here: twinbabyweargingaustralia@gmail.com
Dr. Heidi Knorr is a chiropractor with over 25 years of experience. Dr. Knorr has a special interest in working with athletes, paediatric & neurodivergent patients, as well as pre/post natal mums. Utilizing a wide range of techniques, Dr. Knorr is always sure to suit the needs and preferences of each patient. She enjoys treating all ages, advising on rehabilitation and observing how patients respond to chiropractic care. When she isn’t working, she can be found spending time with her young family, taking photographs, baking, crafting, practising aerial sports, and skiing.
