Prior to becoming a mum, you prepare yourself for the childbirth experience, the supplies your baby would need on a daily basis, and the frequent sleepless nights. The last may fall hard on some of us, but not more than the fact some babies require you to hold them all the time.

The reason for this has to do with the noisy, cold and unfamiliar environment they find themselves in once they’re in the “fourth trimester” and out of the comforting, warm and familiar womb environment. Even though it’s understandable when we don’t have the help of a spouse, relative, or a nanny, it can be difficult to tend to the needs of a crying infant and keep up with the daily chores at the same time.

If you’re going through such a period, I know what it feels like, and before you lose your sanity or start polluting your mind with thoughts that you’re failing as a mum, invest in practical newborn carriers designed to make your parenting and life easier. I find them to be essential baby care products a parent should have.

What Do You Benefit from Babywearing?

While it might seem like it’s a relatively new concept, thanks to the stylish carriers that have grown in popularity over the recent years, it’s an age-old practice that parents have relied on for centuries, using various wraps and contraptions. Undoubtedly, parents have been onto something all these years, and it’s not just about comforting a crying bub and staying hands-free.

Besides strengthening the bond you share with your little one due to the increased production of oxytocin by keeping him or her close to your breath and heartbeat, there’s the benefit of aiding the baby’s development too. This closeness he or she has to you helps with the physical and emotional development, along with respiratory, neural and gastrointestinal development.

As there are newborn carriers available in various sizes and designs, you can opt for babywearing well through the toddler stage as well, further strengthening the bond you two share. One of the extra benefits many parents are unaware of is promoting early language development since babies have a good view of parents’ faces.

Moreover, there’s an additional one that would give you the peace of mind you need regarding their safety, which is always a concern for parents. These carriers would give you peace of mind if you’re worried about the risks of flat-head syndrome and SIDS.

What to Look for in a Carrier?

Now that you’re aware of all the reasons that make babywearing a great idea, it’s time to discuss the important aspects you ought to pay attention to when choosing your ideal carrier. This would assist you with having a hassle-free shopping experience, as you find yourself browsing through the wide range of newborn carriers for sale at the baby goods stores.

Familiarise Yourself with the Different Types

Basically, you’ll be choosing from three types of carriers: the soft-structured front carriers, the carrier slings, and the carrier backpacks.

Front Carriers

Front carriers, as you might guess by the name, are designed to keep your baby at front. Though they’re lightweight, they offer the needed safety and security you require for your bub, as they come with straps you can secure on your body. Available in an array of materials, you’d be better off purchasing a design that consists of soft foam to provide the needed comfort and padding, as well as mesh for maximum airflow to keep you both comfortable and dry.

Carrier Slings

Slings are multipurpose pieces considering they’re long swaths of fabrics that double as breastfeeding covers for nursing mommies, and blankets. Same as the previous soft-structured baby carriers, they’re lightweight and practical, and they come in a range of materials though you’d benefit most from those made of natural fabrics like bamboo known for its outstanding soft and breathable properties. They make it easy to place the baby, though you might need more practice with wrapping them up around you.

Carrier Backpacks

Backpacks as implied are to be worn on your back. While similar in design with the soft-structured type, they’re better suited for older babies who are already able to sit up. Perfect for days out with the little one, you can use them on various occasions, including outdoor adventures, shopping at the malls, and walking at the parks, but you may need a hand with putting them on.

Look into the Carrier’s Features

To be extra sure you spend your money on a carrier that would serve you well, it’s necessary to mindfully keep the following features in mind:

• Cleanliness – an aspect that has to do with fabrics. If you want to keep things easier for you, choose machine-washable.
• Adaptability – this is to ensure you could use it for the different stages of your baby’s life.
• Adjustability – indicates whether it’s easy to adjust the design and straps specifically in case you’re wearing warmer clothing like jackets, or you share the carrier with your partner.
• Size – indicated on the carriers, you need to check if it’s suitable for your size and body type.
• Safety – check if it complies with safety standards to give you the peace of mind baby will be supported without affecting the healthy hip joint development.
• Accessories – they make the design more user-friendly, especially when you get dummy loops and privacy hoods for sun protection and breastfeeding.