Choosing a baby carrier.
Having a baby is such a blessing that brings so much joy for both you and your family. Every parent needs to know that no matter how tiny your baby is, your arms may start to ache if you hold them for too long. A baby carrier is a perfect way to hold your baby close without tiring yourself. Even a quick trip to the shop becomes much easier with a baby carrier than pushing a stroller or lugging a car seat.
Many baby carriers are designed to last up to toddlerhood, making outdoor nature walks or quick trips outdoors simpler with a baby on board. Holding your newborn baby close to you also gives them a sense of security, strengthens the bond between you and baby, and also helps them develop their sense of balance too.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Baby Carrier
Baby carriers have been around for years and today’s technology and design advances present safer wearing choices that are made to meet the needs of modern families and busy parents. With thousands of baby carriers available on the market, choosing a baby carrier can be overwhelming if you’re a first-time mum or if you are not familiar with all the styles and terms. But there is no need to worry. Here are some of the important features you need to consider when choosing a baby carrier.
- Value
The good thing about baby carriers is the variety of price ranges available, which means most parents can find a suitable option within their budget range. A baby carrier is an investment and if the carrier of your dreams happens to be out of your budget range, you can consider postponing a stroller until your baby is old enough for one and get a baby carrier instead. While structure baby carriers tend to be relatively more expensive, they are durable and you get to use them for longer.
- Comfort
Wearing your baby carrier isn’t going to work if both you and the baby aren’t snug. The best carrier will offer soft, stretchy support for little ones with a design that both supports and conforms to their body and movement with minimal resistance. The material used determines the strength, breathability, and comfort of the carrier. Baby carriers are made from different fabrics which can either be natural or synthetic, but most of the common materials used are either cotton or polyester. These materials are popular because they are known to be not only soft but also breathable and yet very strong. Remember to also look for a carrier that’s anti-allergic.
- Ease of cleaning
Cleaning is an important factor as you can predict significant wear and tear with a well-loved baby carrier. Since your carrier will require regular cleaning, it is important to know ahead of time how simple this process will be. The best option for when it comes to ease in cleaning is a machine washable carrier that can go in the dryer. The second option includes machine washable baby carriers but are hand dry only. Air drying your carrier means more downtime between uses especially if you live in a humid climate. The extended drying times mean that your baby will have to wait longer than when it could be tumble dried.
- Age and weight of the baby
A baby carrier that works best for your neighbor’s or friend’s baby might not work with your baby. The age and weight of your baby and whether you intend on using it with kids of multiple ages will determine which carrier will best suit you. Your baby’s age and weight will be the beginning point to rule out certain carriers. With baby carriers, most are made to accommodate a minimum weight of 3.5kgs and a maximum of between 15 to 20kgs depending on the brand.
- Ergonomic design
An ergonomically designed baby carrier is one that features a wide seat base that offers support to your baby’s legs from knee to knee. With this position, your baby is able to swing their legs freely. A wide and supportive seat for the baby ensures that his legs are appropriately separated to prevent hip dysplasia. Furthermore, a carrier with adequate support and correct positioning will promote healthy spinal and hip development. Look for a carrier with a comfortable base strap that takes the pressure off your back and distributes the weight evenly around your hips as you carry your baby.
Types of Baby Carriers
Your baby carrier preference might change as your baby gets older. If you are looking forward to buying a baby carrier, the main types include;
- Soft wrap. A long piece of stretchy material that you tie around your body.
- Woven wrap. A long piece of material that you tie around your body but it doesn’t stretch.
- Ring sling. Wrap with a ring that allows you to adjust the tightness with ease.
- Soft-structured carrier. A baby carrier with padded shoulder straps and adjustable belts. Suitable for both infants and older toddlers.
- Structured carrier. A baby carrier with a frame usually aluminum, that’s ideal for hiking or other long trips.
FAQs when Choosing a Baby Carrier
- Which is better, sling or baby carrier?
Slings are easier to use compared to wraps. They can also be worn on different parts of your body such as the chest, hip and back providing your baby with a lot of variety. Soft-structured carriers provide babies with great comfort, however, they become hot and uncomfortable during warm weather conditions.
- Are baby carriers important?
Yes. With a baby carrier, you can get your grocery shopping done without having all your car space occupied by a car seat. You also get to take your baby out for walks, creating a better bond between the two. Holding your newborn baby close to you also gives them a sense of security, strengthens the bond between you and baby, and also helps them develop their sense of balance too.
- Are baby carrier safe?
As with many bay related activities, there is a right and wrong way to go about babywearing and the difference between what’s right or wrong may sometimes be subtle. Just make sure that you keep the baby’s airway clear, along with supporting their back and neck.
Advantages of Baby Carriers
- Strengthens the bond between baby and parent.
- Helps in the baby’s physical and emotional development.
- Babywearing promotes breastfeeding and reduces baby crying.
- Using a baby carrier makes it easier to go about daily chores with both hands-frees.
Conclusion
Baby carriers have become more than a fashion accessory. With different baby carriers available for you to choose from, make sure that you try them before finally settling on one. Make sure that you can see your baby’s face while carrying them until they are at least 4 months old.
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