Beco carrier review (long)

pahokie

I bought a Beco Butterfly II carrier a few weeks ago.
https://www.becobabycarrier.com/features.asp

DD frequently does not want to be put down in the evenings once we get home from daycare.  I try to spend time just holding and/or playing with her, but sometimes I need to make dinner or go to the bathroom.  I like wearing her and having her nearby and calm as I work, rather than trying to comfort her while I cook one-handed.

I had been using a Moby, but as DD got bigger, I felt like she was less secure in the wrap.  Also, I was not happy with how long it took me to get the Moby tied on and DD positioned.  In fairness to the Moby I would probably have gotten better at both if I had used it more.

I wanted something that I could get myself and DD into and out of quickly and easily, that I feel holds DD securely, that DH would use, and that let us do front and back carries.  I read some reviews online, asked some friends what they use, played with a friend's carriers, and picked a Beco.

I ordered it from The Portable Baby.
https://www.theportablebaby.com/becobabycarriers.html

The Beco is a soft structured carrier that has backpack-type straps.  I fasten four buckles - one for the waist strap, one for the chest strap, and two to hold DD in place.  So far, I love it!!  It is easy to use and DD generally calms down quickly once I strap her in and seems content in it most of the time.  She has fallen asleep in it on several occasions.

It does take a few wearings to get the straps situated, but there is lots of good info online and it comes with a DVD to help you figure things out.  It may take you fewer wearings to figure out the fit, but DD is generally not in it for more than an hour or two in the evenings, so it took me a few days.

The Beco was not cheap (total $150 including shipping), but I am glad I spent the money.  It comes with an infant insert for babies under 15 pounds, and is rated for up to 45 pounds, so we should be able to use it for at least a couple more years.  It also comes with a little hood/sunshade that snaps into place, and I got a waist pack free with my purchase. (The ergo has a built in pocket, which the Beco does not).

One thing I don't like is that it is not designed for a foward facing front carry.  I suspect DD would like that because she is always looking around to see everything.  Maybe she will just be used to facing me and it will never become an issue, and maybe I will have to buy another carrier or wrap eventually. I have already been scoping out woven wraps that let you do a ton of diferent carries and can see how this easily becomes addicting!

Let me know if you have questions about the Beco and I will do my best to answer them.

robynlesley

I'd never heard of this carrier.  I like the patterns! Not going to get it, since I have an Ergo carrier. Actually, the fact that it's not designed for a forward facing front carry is the only thing I don't like about it.

I also have the Baby K'tan and could not do without it.  Less wrapping than a Moby but there IS a learning curve. DS sleeps in it a lot and loves being close to me?even at 3 months.

I agree that babywearing is addicting. But I cannot justify purchasing another carrier. LOL!

busybea

very cool ... i like it !  thank you for taking the time write this ....  )

pa_kris

We love our Beco too!  I'll walk 2-3 miles with DD in the Beco and she'll fall asleep before we hit the halfway point.  It's very comfortable to wear.  I've also found it to be the easiest way to shop with her.