Last Updated On July 4th, 2022
Top 9 Reviews
Baby carriers and slings are a great way to keep your little one close, providing reassurance as well as enhancing parent-child bonding. If your baby is clingy, a carrier may even be essential, giving you some hands-free time to get on with day-to-day tasks, from laundry to shopping.
We know how daunting it can be to shop for baby products, especially when you are a first-time parent. So, to help take some of the stress away and to assist you in your search to find the best baby carrier in the UK for your child, we’ve reviewed nine of the best baby carriers around. From structured models to soft slings and everything in between, whatever type of baby carrier you’re looking for, you’re sure to find the best model in this guide.
The Infantino Flip 4-in-1 baby carrier is suitable for babies weighing between 3.6-14.5kg, you can use it from baby’s first days onwards.
Thanks to its adjustable seat, this carrier can even be used for newborns. Simply adjust the seat width to ensure your baby is comfortably supported. For larger infants, switch the seat to its narrower setting and your child will continue to benefit from knee to knee support for healthy hip development.
Carry your baby on your front, either facing your or the outside world, as well as on your back with them looking over your shoulder. Thanks to its supportive waistband, your child’s weight is transferred to your hips and lower back, freeing up your arms and preventing shoulder ache. Machine washable, this carrier is easy to get hygienically clean, even if your baby suffers from infant reflux.
Lightweight, comfortably padded and stylish, this baby carrier is a great choice for most families.
On the downside, this model does not have any pockets and the included bib is not dribble proof. Also, the instructions are basic and consist mainly of illustrations, more details on adjusting the straps would be welcome for new parents in particular.
Comfortable and supportive, the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One Air is a lightweight, more breathable version of the popular Carrier One. Not only is it great for newborns, but it is also the best toddler carrier in our selection, suitable for use up to age three.
Thanks to its four carry positions, the Baby Carrier One adapts to your baby. There is a special newborn position, so you won’t have to worry about your tiny one being correctly supported. You can then progress to the inward facing lower position, outer position, or carry your toddler on your back.
This carrier supports an ergonomic wide leg position to ensure healthy hip development. Made from a flexible blend of polyester and cotton, it is soft to the touch and won’t irritate your baby’s skin. The cooling 3D mesh is strong, but lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for warm summer walks. It is also machine washable for easy maintenance.
Fully adjustable to provide a perfect fit for your growing child, the carry straps are also adjustable so you can alter your carrier to better fit each family member as needed. Soft, ergonomic and easy to use, whether you have a newborn or a toddler, this the Baby Carrier One makes an excellent choice.
On the downside, there are no pockets for onboard storage, so you’ll need to take your changing bag each time you use it. Also, it doesn’t neatly fold away when not in use, unlike some other easy-to-store carriers.
Recommended as suitable for all body shapes, this baby wrap carrier is a good choice for plus size parents. It’s suitable from birth up to weights of 15.8kg, making it a good choice for your baby’s first year.
Made from a soft cotton spandex blend, this highly versatile baby wrap makes an excellent option to have around. Aside from using it as a baby carrier, thanks to its generous dimensions, it is also a good privacy screen for breastfeeding mothers, as well as doubling up as a spare blanket – handy after “accidents” when you’re out and about.
Machine washable, it is highly packable and comes with its own drawstring storage bag for easy transportation. Use this baby carrier to keep your newborn baby comfortably close, without having your hands taken up all day long. Given its long design, you can tie it in a variety of different styles to suit your child, as well as your needs and preferences.
As it is so long, bear in mind that it can be tricky to put on outdoors as it will trail on the ground and could get dirty. Putting it on takes quite a bit of practice to master it correctly, as with most baby slings, and you may also find that you both get a little hot wearing it during the warmer months of the year.
Treat your back and your baby with our luxury choice, the Omni 360 Baby Carrier by Ergobaby. If you frequently use a carrier and worry about its effects on your baby’s development, then this is the one to go for, certified hip-healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
With its deep bucket seat, assuring a healthy posture for the baby in all four of its carry positions, this ergonomic baby carrier can be used from newborn to toddler (3.2-20kg), with no inserts needed. Thanks to its cushioned, adjustable head support, this carrier protects and supports, plus its tuck-away SPF 50 hood makes it a great choice for sunny days or for breastfeeding on the go in privacy.
Suitable from birth, its breathable mesh construction makes it a good choice for summer and you can also purchase an additional insulated rain cover for use year-round. The waist belt can be worn high or low to suit your individual body type and the pockets also make it highly practical. When not in use simply store it away in its detachable pouch and take it out with you. Made from 100% polyester, this baby carrier is machine washable which is a must for busy parents.
Despite being one of the top baby carriers on the market, it does have a few downsides. It is fairly bulky and the material is not very soft to the touch, so be careful to avoid chafing with tiny one’s exposed skin.
Our best baby sling pick, this version by Koala Babycare is a great alternative to your traditional sling, being easier to fit and adjust. It’s one of the best baby carriers for newborns up to 10kg. It can be used from birth, so if your baby craves close contact this sling is made for you.
Unlike regular baby slings that are very long and often trail on the floor, this innovative model features a separate backrest complete with rings. Simply pass the sling through the ring slings to tighten and tie, making this an easy baby sling to put on and take off, even on your own. It is also very comfortable to wear, with the backrest transferring your child’s weight to your centre of gravity.
Machine washable for easy maintenance and better hygiene, the sling part is made from a breathable, natural cotton fabric with a small amount of lycra for added stretch. Located at the front of the sling, you’ll find a handy pocket for taking small essentials out with you on your walk.
While this sling is much easier to put on than other styles, it still takes some getting used to and the instructions are a little difficult to understand. Given its design, it is less suitable for use with larger children and you may find that you both get too hot wearing it during hotter periods of the year.
If you struggle to get on with day to day tasks with a clingy baby, then you might want to try out our best value choice, the CuddleBug Baby Wrap. Suitable for use from birth, wrap your baby securely close to your chest for hands-free cuddles.
With this best baby sling for newborn babies, you can keep your little one comfortably close for less crying and extra time bonding. Suitable for use in multiple positions, you can adjust your carrying position to suit your baby as well as your body shape. Highly adjustable, you can even change carry positions throughout the day to suit your baby’s needs, sleeping, feeding, or awake and alert.
Made from a stretchy cotton and lycra material, not only is it nice and soft on your little one, but it is also machine washable. Wear it when you’re out and about and take advantage of the privacy it provides when breastfeeding. You can also easily transport it in the included carry bag, so you’ll always have it ready to hand.
Like most baby slings, this one does take quite a bit of practice to get used to tying it correctly, even when you’re better at getting it on, it is still fairly impractical when you need to get out the door quickly. You may also find that the stretchiness of the fabric causes it to loosen as the day goes on, requiring extra adjustments.
The ComfyFit Baby Carrier by Chicco is a unique, highly innovative carrier that gives you the comfort and closeness of a sling with all of the convenience of a carrier.
Suitable for newborns from 3.5kgs and infants weighing up to 15kg, this baby carrier is easy to put on and holds your baby securely in place. Simply click the waistband closed, strap in your baby and tie it to secure. For younger babies and newborns, use the back-facing position with head support, before progressing to the front-facing position when your child is a little older.
Lightweight and easy to pack away flat into the convenient carry pouch, this handy carrier also features a zip pocket for your keys or other small essentials. The padded waist belt and wide shoulder straps are designed to spread your little one’s weight evenly. It is also machine washable for better hygiene and less hassle.
If you are looking for a quicker alternative to a sling for your little one, this carrier is a good choice. It fastens easily, you don’t need a lot of practice to use it and there isn’t a load of fabric to get tangled up in.
On the downside, unfortunately, this baby carrier does not provide enough support, making it less suitable for extended periods of use or for use with heavier babies. As the shoulders are not padded or adjustable, it can be uncomfortable and impossible to get the right fit for certain users.
Possibly the best baby carrier for newborn babies, the ever-popular Mini by BabyBjörn is definitely worth considering. Specially designed to be used during baby’s first year, this model can be used for newborns and babies weighing up to 11kg.
Thanks to its soft and flexible 3D jersey fabric, this front and back baby carrier from birth onwards provide your child with an ergonomic seat and head support. To make getting your sleeping infant out of your carrier easier, you can unfasten the entire front to slip your child out without waking him or her.
Machine washable, it is easy to clean without the hassle of having to hand wash and spot clean. Simple to put on and take off, your baby can benefit from two carrying positions, front or backwards-facing to suit their age and personal preferences.
For use from birth onwards, this soft baby carrier is a popular choice for the first few months, freeing up your hands while keeping your baby close and secure.
On the downside, this carrier is not very supportive for the parents or general wearer, there is no hip belt and you may suffer from backache once your little one starts to put on some weight. Designed primarily for newborns and the first few months, you may find that this is unsuitable if you have a large baby, or that it will be very quickly outgrown.
The LILLEbaby Complete could be the baby carrier for you if you are looking for enhanced comfort and versatility. It gives you the ability to position your baby in a variety of different positions and is made with top quality padding on the mesh material.
This baby carrier facilitates carrying your little one in six different positions including on your front, back, and hip. This added versatility makes the LILLEbaby Complete good for use with newborns and toddlers alike. We also love that this baby carrier is completely machine washable. Considering how likely it is that your baby carrier will get messy, this is quite convenient.
To create as much comfort for you and your baby or toddler, the LILLEbaby Complete uses breathable mesh material with a temperature control panel for your baby. It has padded shoulder straps with two-way adjustments and an extendable padded waist belt. It also features added lumbar support that makes it easier to use for extended periods without straining your back unnecessarily.
This baby carrier makes a great choice for all of the reasons we listed above, however, there are reports indicating that the buckles could be less durable. Additionally, some babies may be less comfortable when positioned facing outward but we still highly recommend this product.
Pay particular attention to the following features to find the best model, right here in our baby carrier reviews, for your little one, as well as for your lifestyle.
The best baby carriers essentially come in three main types, although you will find some hybrid models that combine certain features.
Suitable from birth, these are soft long pieces of fabric that you tie around your chest to provide your newborn baby with a supportive, comfortable niche.
Slings and wraps can take some practice to tie correctly and securely, but they are perfect for newborns and allow you to keep a close connection to your baby that helps calm them if they are irritable. If you don’t like the idea of tying a wrap sling, you can buy easier alternatives like a ring sling.
A ring sling is easier to use. It has rings to secure the fabric, so you can get a tight fit. If you are unsure, be sure to do your research, ask other mothers you may know or consult with your doctor or baby specialists.
Similar to baby slings yet with more structure, SSCs give you the softness and closeness that you get from baby wraps.
As they have more structure to them, typically in the form of shoulder straps, hip belts or possibly a baby seat, they are generally easier and faster to put on for beginners. A buckled carrier can also support heavier babies, so you can use them for longer.
Soft-structured carriers are sometimes suitable for a newborn baby, but they usually require a newborn insert (sometimes called an infant insert) to be added.
Resembling a buckle carrier rucksack, structured models provide the wearer with better levels of support, making them a good choice for heavier babies and longer periods of use.
Backpack carriers usually have adjustable padded shoulder straps and hip belts for optimal weight distribution to your centre of gravity. The majority of structured buckle carriers are suitable for babies that are 4-5 months old, as they have stronger head support muscles at this age.
They may also include pockets and storage pouches, so you have somewhere to keep all your baby snacks and supplies for a day out.
Pay close attention to the seating area if you are purchasing a structured or SSC model. Young babies under six months are at risk of hip dysplasia if they are not correctly supported. Baby carriers that will be used for more than several months will need to have an adjustable seat to ensure that your child is adequately supported throughout their first year.
There are lots of great resources available such as the International Hip Dysplasia Institute if you are worried about your baby’s development and whether or not you are choosing one of the best baby carriers for you and your baby.
Your baby carrier or baby wrap will need to be strong and secure. Stretchy wraps are mostly made from cotton with a touch of lycra to give a huggably soft stretchiness, without losing support. As cotton is a natural fabric, it is breathable, although you may still get too hot if you have a lot of fabric wrapped around you.
More structured baby carriers tend to be made from synthetic materials, although some have cotton interiors for a softer finishing touch next to your baby’s skin. For hot weather use, you may want to consider a mesh style fabric for your baby carrier that promotes airflow and rapid drying.
Whatever type of material you opt for, be sure to pay close attention as to whether your model is machine washable. Drooling, reflux and nappy accidents are all part of everyday life with a baby, but when you factor in a hectic schedule, lack of sleep and a crying baby, being able to stick your dirty carrier in your machine for a hygienic, hassle-free clean can be a godsend.
Carriers and wraps need to support your baby’s weight, as well as you, the wearer. It is particularly important that your baby has the appropriate head and neck support for their age, especially if you want to use it for your newborn. If you’re new to parenting or baby carriers, it is important to make sure that your child is safe and secure when in their carrier or wrap.
To make using a carrier a pleasant experience for you both, you will also need some back support. While the weight of newborns or small babies won’t put too much strain on your back at first, they’ll soon become uncomfortable to carry in a carrier without enough back support.
Look out for wide, padded straps that you can easily adjust to suit your frame. A hip belt, just like those found on a rucksack, is a great way to transfer the bulk of your child’s weight to your centre of gravity making it much easier to carry larger, heavier babies for longer.
While these features aren’t essential, they can make using your carrier easier.
Generally speaking, slings are most useful for newborns. However, their lack of structure and lower weight limit can make them less suitable if you want to carry your baby as they continue to grow. If you are not put off by the learning curve associated with putting on a baby sling, then it could be the best choice for you and your baby.
Many parents love the newborn baby closeness they get from soft structured baby slings and they can also be useful for breastfeeding mothers, providing extra privacy in public while keeping them close to your body. However, it all comes down to a matter of personal preference, both yours and your baby’s.
For older babies, round the six-month mark, if you want to use your baby carrier for any length of time then you’ll want a more structured model. Long walks, day trips out, or busy days around the house, with a structured carrier you can take your baby’s weight for longer without discomfort.
In short, we recommend trying out a baby wrap or sling for your little one, if that’s something that you are happy to try. Otherwise, opt for an SSC for the first few months. From four months onwards, you can easily find a well-structured carrier that you can use for longer periods or when you feel that your early days’ carrier is no longer providing the same levels of support.
We have featured some of the best baby carriers available to buy on the market, so you’re sure to find one that suits your baby and lifestyle. If you don’t have time to do endless hours of research and want to find the best model for you, then we recommend our overall best baby carrier in the UK and editor’s choice, the Infantino Flip 4-in-1.
Thanks to its multi-functional design, this versatile baby carrier is a highly popular choice. It also comes with a bib to keep your clothes and the carrier clean.
With its padded, adjustable shoulder straps and cushioned waist belt, it’s also a comfortable choice for parents and carers. Suitable for babies weighing 3.6kg to 14.5kg, this carrier can be used for your newborn until they are a toddler.
All in all, this is a highly practical, easy to use baby carrier that provides the support that your child needs. From summer walks to getting housework done, this baby carrier makes an excellent, highly practical choice.
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