How do I choose a baby carrier? There are so many!
Choosing the right baby carrier can feel overwhelming. A quick Google search brings up hundreds of options, endless reviews, and lots of conflicting advice. Let’s simplify things.
DON’T RELY ON GOOGLE AND AMAZON
Search engines and marketplaces tend to push the brands with the biggest advertising budgets - not necessarily the ones that will work best for you. Awards and top review lists can also be influenced by who pays to be featured.
DON’T JUST GO FOR THE BIG BRAND YOU’VE HEARD OF
You may recognise names like BabyBjörn or Ergobaby. But the “best” carrier is the one that:
- fits your body comfortably
- supports your baby well
-
works for your daily life
Many parents discover that a lighter, softer, more flexible carrier (like an Izmi 😉) is easier, comfier, and quicker to use than the bulkier options they first found online.
DO CHOOSE A CARRIER THAT SUPPORTS YOUR BABY’S HIPS WELL
Whether you’re looking at wraps or structured carriers, your baby should sit in the natural ‘M-shaped’ position - knees slightly higher than bum and supported from knee pit to knee pit.
DON’T PUT UP WITH SHOULDER OR BACK PAIN
A well-fitted, ergonomic carrier should not hurt - even with a heavy baby or toddler. If your carrier feels uncomfortable, it’s usually:
- the design (too stiff / too narrow / too heavy)
- or the fit (a small tweak can make a huge difference)
Izmi offers a FREE 1-to-1 fit check with every purchase to make sure you're 100% confident and comfy in your carrier.
DON’T DISMISS BABY WRAPS AS “TOO COMPLICATED”
Stretchy fabric wraps, which are IDEAL for newborns, can be pre-tied so you can just pop baby in and out through the day. Genius.
Once someone shows you the simple steps, it becomes second nature. (Get your free fit check when you buy an Izmi Wrap, or watch our video tutorials!)
DO MAKE SURE YOU’RE BUYING THE REAL THING
If you see a brand new, boxed, unused Ergobaby Omni baby carrier for sale on eBay or Amazon for under or close to £100 - it’s probably a fake. There are a huge number of them. Always ensure you buy from an authorised retailer.
DON’T PANIC IF A FRIEND’S “FAVOURITE SLING EVER” JUST DOESN’T WORK FOR YOU
Just like shoes or jeans, what works for one person may not work for another. It’s all about personal preference and getting a good fit.
DON’T BE SURPRISED IF YOUR FRIEND LENDS YOU A PRACTICALLY NEW SLING AND YOU DON’T LIKE THAT EITHER
If it’s practically new they probably never used it themselves. That might tell you something about how useful it was.
DO FOLLOW GUIDELINES FOR SAFE BABYWEARING
Your baby should always be held high, tight and in sight in any baby carrier. Please do read our full safety advice page to ensure your baby is safe and you are comfortable.
AND MOST IMPORTANTLY: ENJOY THE SNUGGLES
You can’t "spoil" a baby by carrying them. You’re giving them warmth, reassurance, and the world from your level.
And one day, they’ll be running across the playground without looking back - so for now, soak it up.
Not sure which Izmi carrier will suit you best? Take our super speedy quiz!
