You’ve probably heard of the biggest brands (like Ergobaby and BabyBjörn), but there are tons of baby carrier options for different stages, body types and lifestyles.
1. One and done
Photo: Didymos
The DidyKlick is a great all-purpose carrier from infancy to toddler years (no newborn insert needed). Because it combines the comfort of a woven wrap (the criss-cross X on your back) with the structure of a carrier that buckles at the waist, it’s considered a hybrid. It’s also easy to share with another caregiver, because you tie it to your body each time and don’t have to readjust any straps. $290, littlezenone.ca
2. Super easy to use
Photo: Boba
The Boba X is a buckle panel carrier for facing-inward only, but it works from newborn to 45 pounds without adding an insert. $219, canada.boba.com
3. Best wrap for newborns
Photo: Beluga Baby
Instead of a Moby or Baby K’tan, choose a Beluga Baby wrap in breathable bamboo fabrics, made by a mom in Vancouver. $77-$80, belugababy.ca
4. For tiny infants with complex medical needs
Photo: Joeyband
This option also works for preemies who are too small to be in a carrier, but need skin-to-skin time. The Joeyband is a “sleep belt” that’s great for when you’re just lounging in bed or sitting on the couch. (But don’t wear it while you, the parent, are asleep.) It’s like wearing your bub inside a stretchy T-shirt. $70, joeyband.com
5. Best ring sling
Photo: Heritage Baby Designs
This made-in-Canada linen carrier is lightweight and easy to pack in your stroller or diaper bag, and can work for newborns all the way to toddlers (8 to 35 pounds). Make sure the fabric is just capping your shoulder (not draped all the way to your elbow, and not bunched up near your neck). $125, heritagebaby.ca
6. New this year
Photo: BabyBjörn
The BabyBjörn Harmony, which launched in June, comes in a luxurious, cool mesh fabric. Wear your baby facing in, facing out (when they’re older and have more head control) or on your back. $310, westcoastkids.ca
7. Best for twins
Photo: TwinGo
Yup, parents of twins or multiples can babywear, too! The TwinGo Lite can also work for two babies or toddlers closer in age. US $211, twingocarrier.com
8. Great for older babies
Photo: Sakura Bloom
This linen Onbuhimo from Sakura Bloom has leather straps and no waistband. (Back carriers are ideal when you’re pregnant again.) $258, snugglebugz.ca
9. Best meh-dai
Photo: Lennylamb
Think of this as a pre-tied wrap. There’s no padding, so it won’t dig into your shoulders or hips. It also has a handy hood for naps on-the-go. U S$167, us.lennylamb.com
10. If you’re planning to travel
Photo: Integra Baby
The Integra Baby quick-dry fabric is lightweight, UVA/UVB sun protective and can be worn at the beach or in in the pool. $165, littlezenone.ca
