When this LO arrives, I'll have a 23 month old that is extremely active.
I'm thinking that carrying my newborn in a wrap/carrier and then pushing my 23 month old in a single stroller may be my best option for shopping/running errands.
I'd like suggestions on one that is easy to get a newborn in and out of when you are getting in and out of a car with a toddler (doesn't involve lots of steps or wrapping). I'd also like it to be very secure fitting since I will most likely be using both hands to corral my toddler or help her during potty training. I'd prefer something that is not a sling style.
(I have an Ergo that I love, but the newborn insert was just too hot for our climate.)
TIA!
Re: Easiest (Newborn) Wrap/Carrier?
If you want something secure what about an Xstyle wrap like a K-tan? I loved mine when DS was little, he was secure and I could bend over and not worry about him. It also was super quick and easy, unlike the moby which I never got the hang of.
I really liked my mei tai when he was tiny - it does have some tieing, but you can put it on before you leave and pop baby in when you get there. Easy to get a newborn in and very secure.
Look at brands like Babyhawk, Kozy Carrier, or Freehand.
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I think a beco butterfly 2 or beco Gemini would be a good option for you.
Though I use a pouch sling for really quick trips in the store or the moby for longer walks.
www.sleepywrap.com
If you don't want to do any type of wrap, I'm inclined to ay that you should go with a ring sling. Any quality carrier meant for newborn use that you use properly will fit securely. With a pouch, though, it has to be properly sized for you. All other types will be adjustable and you'll be able to use them with a secure fit.
Can you share a little more about why you feel that a sling-style carrier is not consistent with using both hands to do other things. Do you think that you'll have to further support your newborn? You won't. Rest assured that you'll still have your hands available to do things for your toddler. The point of a carrier is to be hands-free.
I can link to some ring sling videos if you're interested in seeing how quickly you can get a newborn in. You can also see that you'll still have your hands free.
This! I used my sleepy wrap pretty much every day for the first two or three months.
If you go with the Peanut Shell, I'd recommend against going with the adjustable one. It's not comfortable because it comes with a buckle that sits in an awkward place. For the amount of money you spend on the adjustable Peanut Shell pouch, you can get a quality ring sling, which will be much more comfortable.
Also, almost all the pictures on Peanut Shell's website are pretty scary and show the baby being held too low and in a cradle position--which is pretty difficult to do properly and safely. Those pictures look more bag sling-like than pouch-like.