Product Spotlight Series: Baby Carriers Edition w/o Oct 9

doxiemoxie212 · October 2017

This is a place for FTMs to ask questions and S+TMs to share the wealth of knowledge they've accumulated on baby products. Each week we'll spotlight a new category of product to help streamline and make it easier to refer back. This week it's.... baby carriers! Ring slings, wraps, you name it.

Please use the prompts below to try to share as much relevant info as you can in a format that is easy for those reading to absorb/respond to. If you'd like to recommend/ask questions about more than one product, please copy/paste the prompts as needed.

For S+TMs:

Favorite [baby carrier]:
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.):
What you like about it:
What you don't like about it, if anything:
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?:
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]:

For FTMs:

[Carrier(s)] you're interested in:
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.):
Any questions about it/them for S+TMs?:

ETA: schedule for reference, and past links here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gjNtxy2Kd2JceTYYR5wkwVcpTbU-khgazhjcZnfI1y4/edit?usp=sharing
message me if you want me to add categories!

sunshineandwhiskey · October 2017

For S+TMs:

Favorite [baby carrier]: Gemini baby carrier by Beco
Link/picture: https://www.amazon.com/Gemini-Performance-Baby-Carrier-Beco/dp/B01B24JRQU/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1507561607&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=baby%2Bcarrier%2Bgemini&th=1
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $140ish
What you like about it: It's super comfy and I can wear it for a long amount of time. I also like that I can do a front carry or back, as well as forward facing out front carry.
What you don't like about it, if anything: It was hard to do at first by myself.
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?: I'll prolly just keep this one, but i was looking into the Tula Free to Grow too
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: Get something! Without it, there was no way I could survive doing stuff around the house. We use it so much now too and shes 14 months. I prefer it over the stroller most times.

krash_ · October 2017

FTM here, I have a general question for S+TM's:

If you have tried both baby wraps and carriers, which style do you prefer and why? Which one would you choose if you had to pick one or do you find they are both necessary?

kmurdock925 · October 2017

For S+TMs:

Favorite [baby carrier]: Wildbird Ring Slings
Link/picture: www.wildbird.co
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): single linens ~$65 ($$ in comparison to some brands)
What you like about it: ease of use (once you figure it out), easy to pack, visually appealing
What you don't like about it, if anything: learning curve to using it
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?: I'll probably get a SSC like a Tula this time around for longer carriers
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: They are a NECESSITY. Check with local boutiques or baby wearing international chapters (or locals BW groups) to try out carriers from their libraries prior to committing to an expensive purchase

PatientlyWaiting10 · October 2017

krashke said:

FTM here, I have a general question for S+TM's:

If you have tried both baby wraps and carriers, which style do you prefer and why? Which one would you choose if you had to pick one or do you find they are both necessary?

We have a baby bjorn that both my H and I would use and I used a moby. The moby wrap was kind of hard to figure out and with a summer baby it was hot because it's a lot of added fabric wrapped all around. I haven't posted in here with a rec because I'm not 100% sold on either one really but I did like both of them with DS.

sunshineandwhiskey · October 2017

krashke said:

FTM here, I have a general question for S+TM's:

If you have tried both baby wraps and carriers, which style do you prefer and why? Which one would you choose if you had to pick one or do you find they are both necessary?

Like @PatientlyWaiting10, I have a Moby wrap as well as the carrier. I found the wrap a lot more complicated to use, but it worked better when DD was smaller. It was definitely hot in the summer though, because there is a tonnnn of fabric.

Amphibious22 · October 2017

FTM here..

For any S+TMs that have experience with both, do you generally recommend the ergobaby or Tula carrier? Those are the two that I've been thinking about but wondering if anyone has personal experience with either.

@kmurdock925 thanks for the rec on the sling. Definitely something I wanted as well because I'm worried a full wrap will be too hot in the summer (which @PatientlyWaiting10 just confirmed is the case)

doxiemoxie212 · October 2017

FTM question: Have you guys found the men in your life prefer a different kind of carrier than you do?

Also, would love to hear if anyone has used the Beluga Baby wrap because after watching too many random YouTube videos I... uh.... bought one.

It's the only baby item I've purchased, I swear! It's so soft, though... so soft.

https://belugababy.ca/
$65

BurlapandLace · October 2017

krashke said:

FTM here, I have a general question for S+TM's:

If you have tried both baby wraps and carriers, which style do you prefer and why? Which one would you choose if you had to pick one or do you find they are both necessary?

I use wraps, ring slings and SSCs (soft structure carriers) and I like them all for different reasons and at different times.

DH only wears the SSC (we have a lillebaby airflow which we LOVE). It’s easier for him to figure out and he considers it more his style.

I use the SSC too, but generally I prefer wraps and my wrap conversion ring sling. The ring sling is great for quick ups because it’s easy to get on and off and get kiddo in and out. If I’m going to be wearing for a longer period of time though, or I want to be more hands free, I prefer my wraps. They are more versatile and I can wrap in SO many different ways, baby can be on front, back or hips, and I love the different “prints” on my wraps. I was intimidated by wraps at first, so I started with the ring sling. I also had a baby k’Tan which I ended up hating. Once I got my first wrap I fell in love and it really isn’t as hard as it seems, though it does take practice. I ended up buying another wrap after my first. And then the SSC came last because DH wanted to wear, but was not about wearing in any of my wraps or slings.

ETA ~ When I say my wraps, I am talking about woven wraps. I never had a Moby. I chose the woven wraps because they can be used longer for older kiddos than a stretchy wrap like a moby or a k’tan. And my ring sling is a wrap conversion ring sling - meaning it is a woven wrap what has been made into a ring sling.

MoonOverGoldsboro · October 2017

Favorite [baby carrier]: LilleBaby All Seasons
Link/picture: https://www.lillebaby.com/baby-carriers/completetm/complete-all-seasons?limit=all
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $140--look for sales!
What you like about it: No newborn insert necessary, lumbar support makes it super comfortable for long distances, even you have an effed up back (like me)
What you don't like about it, if anything: It can be a little tricky to snap the strap between the shoulder straps, but it's manageable.
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?: I am thinking about trying a ring sling this time, just for the ease of throwing it on.
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: I find some kind of carrier indispensable, since I spend a lot of time walking our dog! And with two kids, I assume it will be even more necessary for getting anything done.

(I am resisting the urge to post gratuitous cute photos of my son in our Lille.)

kmurdock925 · October 2017

Amphibious22 - I'm obsessed with the slings. I have 4 wildbirds and have started sewing my own (I only have very basic sewing skills and it is so easy as long as you get the right materials). I forgot to add to join the BST groups on FB. There aren't always great deals because of highly desired colors etc (once the season is over the colors are discontinued) but if they're sold out online you can almost always find something for sale there. Plus help with using them.

I didn't learn about them until DD was about 7 months and wish I would have known sooner. Also- the linen is very cool for the summer months. They also sell bamboo whish is very soft for newborns but it holds a bit more heat for the summer

MoonOverGoldsboro · October 2017

@BurlapandLace I am considering a ring sling this time around precisely for the "quick ups" reason you mentioned. Do you feel like they're pretty easy for a newb to figure out? (I am still intimidated by wraps!)

BurlapandLace · October 2017

MoonOverGoldsboro said:

@BurlapandLace I am considering a ring sling this time around precisely for the "quick ups" reason you mentioned. Do you feel like they're pretty easy for a newb to figure out? (I am still intimidated by wraps!)

Super easy! Just got to make sure you get it threaded correctly, which is super simple. And learn how to adjust. But again, super simple

BurlapandLace · October 2017

For those that might be interested in wraps but a little intimidated by them (or anyone interested in trying out any kind of carrier before you buy one!): find your local baby wearing chapter. They generally have all kinds of different carriers (wraps, SSCs, slings, etc) that you can rent out and try. They also will teach you how to use the carriers and have weighted dolls you can try them with if you go before baby is born.

Also, on my last BMB, there were a lot of ladies interested in wraps but didn’t have much experience with them, so one of the experienced babywearing Mommas did a 30 day wrap challenge where every day she posted an instructional video/photo sequence on a different type of carry in a wrap (a different way to wrap the wrap) for us all to try and learn. It was really cool. I’m sure if we have enough interest in that after the Babies are here, someone might be willing to do that in this group as well.

doxiemoxie212 · October 2017

BurlapandLace said:

For those that might be interested in wraps but a little intimidated by them (or anyone interested in trying out any kind of carrier before you buy one!): find your local baby wearing chapter. They generally have all kinds of different carriers (wraps, SSCs, slings, etc) that you can rent out and try. They also will teach you how to use the carriers and have weighted dolls you can try them with if you go before baby is born.

Also, on my last BMB, there were a lot of ladies interested in wraps but didn’t have much experience with them, so one of the experienced babywearing Mommas did a 30 day wrap challenge where every day she posted an instructional video/photo sequence on a different type of carry in a wrap (a different way to wrap the wrap) for us all to try and learn. It was really cool. I’m sure if we have enough interest in that after the Babies are here, someone might be willing to do that in this group as well.

Oh this is great info! I was worried I'd have to wait until baby is born to be able to test them!

krash_ · October 2017

@kmurdock925 and @BurlapandLace this might be a dumb question but how do I find my local BW chapter? On FB? Is there a national overall organization that would have links to local chapters?

kmurdock925 · October 2017

ditto to @burlapandlace - plus there are a million videos online you can watch or go to a babywearing meet up for in person guidance. Once you figure it out it is so easy.

BurlapandLace · October 2017

krashke said:

@kmurdock925 and @BurlapandLace this might be a dumb question but how do I find my local BW chapter? On FB? Is there a national overall organization that would have links to local chapters?

I would start by Googling “ (insert location here) baby wearing” and see what pops up. FB is also a great place to look

bkrahn · October 2017

STM -
LOVE my wildbird ring sling! Already dreaming about buying a few more for this babe

They do take a bit of practice figuring out, but once you DO figure out, it takes no time at all getting your little one settled in. I love that it's light and easy to carry around, and doesn't take up a lot of space if you're travelling. It also works great as a nursing cover. They have some good tutorials on their website for those just starting out as well.
If I was planning on wearing baby for a long period of time, I did find a more structured carrier was easier because it distributed baby's weight a little better.

momac1919 · October 2017

Favorite [baby carrier]: After trying a few last time we settled on the K'tan
Link/picture: https://www.babyktan.com/
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $59.95
What you like about it: it's super comfortable and I could easily use it with my daughter facing towards or away from me. It was also easy for me to nurse her while wearing it
What you don't like about it, if anything: it was a little confusing to figure out exactly how to wear at first, but after a time or two I could easily and quickly get it on and baby in without help
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?: not at this time
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: finding the perfect carrier for you is clutch so that if baby needs or wants held frequently you can still get stuff done

buffalove1211 · October 2017

Favorite [baby carrier]: Ergo 360
Link/picture: https://store.ergobaby.com/baby-carrier/four-position-360
Cost: $160
What you like about it: Baby can face in or out. Baby feels super safe and secure.
What you don't like about it, if anything: The darn thing is really hard to put on without help.
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: Don't forget to buy the infant insert!

krashke I had a Solly wrap and an Ego 360. I liked using the Solly around the house because it was easier to get on and didn't feel so invasive. However, I liked using the Ergo when I was out of the house because baby always felt more secure. Overall if I had to pick I would go with carrier.

sabby2 · October 2017

I loved my baby k'tan and ergo360 with dd.

bitzyg · October 2017

Beco was my favorite, because I absolutely need the straps to cross in the back to be most comfortable and distribute the weight evenly. The k’tan was also great in the first few weeks. I originally had the Ergo, and I hated trying to get my newborn into the insert, and then was uncomfortable with the inability to cross it in the back. I did use it for hip and back carry. The Moby was a disaster for me. I really think so much depends on a woman’s body type! My torso is so short, and I think that was a big thing for fit.

halesnwhales · October 2017

I loved, loved, loved the money wrap in the beginning. Once I was taught how to wrap it, I had it down. I also have the original ergo and the beco and both SO and I prefer the ergo. I think we will try out the ergo 360 and we are definitely getting a woven wrap because I LOVE wraps.
For mamas who have woven wraps, what brand is your favorite?

BlackAndGold09 · October 2017

For S+TMs:
Favorite [baby carrier]: Moby and tula
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $140+ fo
What you like about it: the Moby was great when ds was little, the tula was super comfy once he got big
What you don't like about it, if anything: the shoulder snaps on the tula were difficult when alone
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?:
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]:
pictured, my tula in "campy" I loved but sold because we were "done" having kids lol

marcus7676 · October 2017

@krashke - IMO, wraps and carriers are used differently. I used a baby k'tan when DS was super little (my brain couldn't figure out a wrap) and then a sling when he was a bit bigger (3 months). I switched to using the Ergo 360 when he was older / more mobile. My H used the Ergo360 with infant insert from when DS was a baby, because that is what he preferred to wear (@doxiemoxie212 ). The wrap was good to keep him close and let him sleep, while the sling was good for quick ups and downs. The Ergo 360 is good for longer walks / outward facing.

stephcat421 · October 2017

I really liked all the feedback above! This was a very helpful thread. As a FTM, I wouldn't have even known to ask about this so it was very enlightening. Already filled DH in on all your suggestions! I'm sure I'll be back with questions.

meagster13 · October 2017

For S+TMs:

Favorite [baby carrier]: locally made ring sling
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): I believe it was between $70-$90 CDN
What you like about it: quick, easy up and down. Made it really easy for in/out of stores and around the house. Also comfy enough for walks and such too though
What you don't like about it, if anything:
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?: a woven wrap. I didn't get to try one with DS and always wanted to
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: they are a must have. I recommend finding a lending library/ friend with addiction to try some on and see what you like best.

meagster13 · October 2017

For S+TMs:

Favorite [baby carrier]: my other favourite is my ergo original
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): I got mine on sale for about $100 CDN
What you like about it: quick. Very comfortable. Sun shade for if LO falls asleep while out and about. Easy to adjust sizing for multiple users. Beginner friendly.
What you don't like about it, if anything:
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?:
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]:

meagster13 · October 2017

@BurlapandLace I love the 30 day wrap challenge! I didn't have a chance to try wrapping my son but always wanted to

Dashaina · October 2017

I preferred my wrap to all others for around the house. I made it using 7 yards of 45" wide non stretch cotton gauze dyed in wine color. It was fantastic. This time around I'm making a k'tan out of a t-shirt and a non stretchy mesh.

For traveling and walking I preferred the ergo (sport I think?) it was Dhs favorite all the time. I had several others and this was hands down the best for us. However now we're in a warm weather climate year round.. So I'm looking into one of the cooler weather carriers for travel.

PatientlyWaiting10 · October 2017

Just saw this on Zulily. It looks like a good deal according to just a quick google search I did!

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/j0/i1fbinpuadwa.png

mytinc · October 2017

S+TM:

Favorite [baby carrier]: my arms
Link/picture: ARMS
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): free
What you like about it: I always have them with me, and I already know how to use them. You could say I'm pretty attached.
What you don't like about it, if anything: N/A
Is there a [baby carrier] you don't have but are considering? Why?: Nope.
Additional thoughts on [baby carriers]: Baby carriers aren't for everyone and are not a necessity. If you're undecided, borrow one from a friend, find one in a second hand store, etc. before dropping a lot of money on something that you may never use or your baby may hate. I know some moms that spent a ton of money on multiple carriers and never really used any of them. Neither of my first two kids liked them (I tried the Baby Bjorn and the K'tan) and seemed uncomfortable in them, so we gave up.

MoonOverGoldsboro · October 2017

@mytinc LOL forever. The link to the google image search for human arms sent me straight over the edge.

mytinc · October 2017

@MoonOverGoldsboro, your signature info may be off by a year. I assume you meant EDD for 6/18?

MoonOverGoldsboro · October 2017

@mytinc I actually mean 6/17/18, but now I see how that's really not clear, and it's going to drive me bonkers, so I have to change it!

mytinc · October 2017

MoonOverGoldsboro said:

@mytinc I actually mean 6/17/18, but now I see how that's really not clear, and it's going to drive me bonkers, so I have to change it!

Gotcha - I totally read that wrong!

rnielsen321 · October 2017

As STM, I would also see if anyone has a hand-me-down carrier or two.

My DD was/is not a super snuggly baby. And she was OK with the carrier for a wee while. And there was the odd (like 4 times) if was the only thing to soothe her.

We were passed a Ring sling, that was nice to have, but I found rather awkward. Probably used it 10 times tops.

Did go to a Children's Consignment store and purchased one (Bjorn) second hand. Washed it, used it (especially when travelling) and enjoyed it. However, our window (DD and I) for baby carrying was small. She is a September baby, and we had one heck of a winter. I was too afraid to walk and carry her in case I slipped. Plus we both run hot and she does not like to get hot, so that contributed to not baby wearing in the warmer months... AND DD is 97th percentile (and up for height and weight, so she also, quickly outgrew the carrier itself. (She's in 4T at 2yo!) DH is too big to wear a carrier.

I agree that carriers can be expensive, and to find your baby wearing group locally, or gather some from a friend/family member. This is something that I can totally recommend buying second hand.

rose913 · October 2017

Does anyone have any recommendations for a carrier for a petite mom who has small babies? I am very petite and my first baby was tiny (6lbs 3oz, dropped down to 5lbs 10oz), I had gotten an original ergo as a gift and both my baby and I hated it. It was so huge and bulky on me, I think I used it 3 times. I never felt comfortable wearing it and my daughter seemed to get lost in it because she was so small. I definitely want something new for number 2 but I am not sure what to get because all the good ones look so bulky.

I forgot to add, I have and love the Boba wrap!

Dashaina · October 2017

rose913 said:

Does anyone have any recommendations for a carrier for a petite mom who has small babies? I am very petite and my first baby was tiny (6lbs 3oz, dropped down to 5lbs 10oz), I had gotten an original ergo as a gift and both my baby and I hated it. It was so huge and bulky on me, I think I used it 3 times. I never felt comfortable wearing it and my daughter seemed to get lost in it because she was so small. I definitely want something new for number 2 but I am not sure what to get because all the good ones look so bulky.

I forgot to add, I have and love the Boba wrap!

I am petite (5'1.5 and 114lbs not preg.) I used my ergo for first two babes.. It wasn't comfortable for me at first (but added my own snaps to make it smaller around the waist and shoulders using a snap press I bought online for $20 and some plastic snaps. I also adjusted the strap area for the baby by taking in some of the fabric in the drop area using snaps so I could shorten it. ) It made it better for daily outings. But for daily I just made my own wrap as I mentioned above with a cotton gauze material. It was really breathable and comfortable and I loved it, I was able to do all the forward and back holds... And could have used 6 yds I think, but hubs is tall and he used it occasionally too. I had the same issue with carriers and my height and weight as you probably did. Nothing but the wraps were truly comfortable... But once I made the adjustments on the ergo it definitely made it better. I also made a little umm bum seat like the infant insert has in it to life my little up to the correct height. DD2 was 5lbs 11oz, 19 at birth so I had to make a summer time infant insert myself, because the standard was too hot. Idk if that's helpful at all. I've also been reading a lot on the k'tan and am planning on making one with summer breathable mesh this time around.

meagster13 · October 2017

@rose913 I would suggest trying a wrap as mentioned above or trying a ring sling

Want a personalized experience?

Product Spotlight Series: Baby Carriers Edition w/o Oct 9

Re: Product Spotlight Series: Baby Carriers Edition w/o Oct 9

Choose Another Board

Search Boards