The Best Baby Carriers for New Parents
Choosing the right baby carrier can make everyday life with a new baby significantly easier. Whether you’re heading out for a walk, running errands, or just trying to keep your hands free at home, a well-designed baby carrier offers comfort, connection, and convenience during those early months.
At Heyday, we curate baby carriers designed for comfort, safety, and everyday use. If you’re comparing options and trying to decide what’s right for your family, this guide will help you choose with confidence.
What to Look for in a Baby Carrier
Before choosing a carrier, it’s important to understand what actually matters day to day. The best baby carriers balance comfort, safety, and ease of use.
Key things to consider:
- Comfort for the wearer: Padded straps, back support, and even weight distribution matter, especially for longer wear.
- Proper support for baby: Look for carriers that promote healthy hip positioning and offer head and neck support for newborns.
- Ease of use: Buckles and adjustments should be intuitive, especially when you’re tired or on the go.
- Versatility: Many parents prefer carriers that grow with their child from newborn to toddler.
- Lifestyle fit: Some carriers are better for quick trips, others for longer outings.
Types of Baby Carriers
Understanding the main carrier styles will help narrow your decision.
Structured Baby Carriers
Structured carriers use buckles and padded straps to evenly distribute weight. They’re ideal for everyday wear and longer walks.
Best for: Daily use, outdoor walks, extended wear
Baby Wraps & Slings
Wraps are soft fabric carriers that tie around your body. They’re especially popular for newborns because of their snug, womb-like feel.
Best for: Newborns, early bonding, at-home wear
Slings are worn over one shoulder and are quick to put on and take off. They’re a great option for short trips or frequent ups and downs.
Best for: Quick errands, convenience, early months
Babywearing Shirts
Babywearing shirts are designed to hold your baby close using integrated panels or wrap-style construction built directly into the shirt. They offer a lightweight, streamlined option for hands-free carrying, especially during the newborn stage.
Best for: Newborns, at-home wear, short periods of hands-free carrying
Choosing the Best Baby Carrier for Your Needs
Every family’s needs are different, but these guidelines can help narrow your choice:
For newborns: Look for carriers designed with proper head and neck support or wraps that allow a snug fit.
For everyday wear: Structured carriers tend to be the most comfortable for longer periods.
For shared use: Highly adjustable carriers make it easier for multiple caregivers to wear comfortably.
For convenience: Slings and lightweight carriers are ideal when speed matters.
Comfort Tips for Wearing a Baby Carrier
Even the best carrier needs proper adjustment to feel comfortable.
- Position your baby high enough to kiss the top of their head
- Keep straps snug but not restrictive
- Adjust shoulder and waist straps evenly
- Switch carrying positions as your baby grows
- Comfort directly affects how often you’ll use a carrier — and how much you’ll enjoy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start using a baby carrier?
Many baby carriers are designed for use from birth, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for weight and age recommendations.
Are baby carriers safe?
Yes, when used correctly. Proper positioning and fit are essential for safety.
Can baby carriers be worn for long periods?
Ergonomic carriers are designed for extended wear when properly adjusted.
Shop Baby Carriers at Heyday
Heyday offers a curated collection of baby carriers designed for comfort, safety, and everyday practicality. Whether you’re looking for a structured carrier, a sling, or an option suitable for newborns, our collection is built to support real life with a baby.
