Best Baby Carriers of 2023

The Scoop

• Great for the first few months (and beyond)
• Perennial parent favorite
• Lightweight, super soft sustainable fabric
• Universal fit

What Our Experts Think

Over and over again we hear parents swooning over their Solly wrap—and we couldn’t agree more. The Solly is a wrap you’ll reach for again and again thanks to its super soft, lightweight fabric, ease of use and comfort factor, especially during those first few months of your baby’s life. It’s made in the USA from sustainably sourced material from Austrian Beechwood trees and uses environmentally friendly dyes for its (many) beautiful colors and patterns. It’s easy to fold up compactly in its self-enclosing pocket to store in your stroller or diaper bag.

What’s Worth Considering

The Solly only offers one carry position: front-inward. And although it works with babies up to 25 pounds, many parents like to use it while their baby is still young and then move onto a carrier with more positioning options as their little one grows.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Lightweight, washable, easy to learn, cute, packable…everything about this is great! I bought a second one even. It’s really not complicated, don’t be intimidated!” -Diana

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Simple and stylish
• Hand-sewn from heirloom-quality linen fabric
• Fully adjustable

What Our Experts Think

Ring slings are a popular choice for many babywearing parents because they’re adjustable, fit most body types are pretty easy to get the hang of and wear comfortably. Wildbird slings are some of the best (and most beautiful) around. They’re made from premium Belgian linen that gets softer and softer after each wash and are made using low-impact, all-natural environmentally friendly dyes. This baby sling can be worn four ways and comes in two lengths: standard (74 inches) and long (90 inches) for plus-size wearers or parents over six feet tall.

What’s Worth Considering

There is a bit of a learning curve with ring slings. Wildbird has a great collection of video tutorials that will help you get the hang of wearing your baby in no time.

For another popular ring sling, check out the Kyte Baby. It’s made from pre-washed linen, rose gold rings and two pockets and will cost you about $60.

What Babylist Parents Say

“It is beautiful, my baby loves it. Easy to care for and clean. The community built around it is also amazing and supportive.” -Bethany

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Popular wrap among Babylist parents
• Good price point
• Snug fit helps baby feel secure

What Our Experts Think

The Boba wrap is a popular pick among Babylist parents. It’s made from one large piece of fabric and can be used in one position: front-inward. Because it’s made from five percent spandex, it does a great job of helping babies feel snug and secure. (This is especially great for newborns who love skin-to-skin.) We love that it fits parents of all sizes and can grow with your little one up to about 35 pounds.

What’s Worth Considering

One-piece wraps can get hot. If you live in a warmer climate or run hot, consider Boba’s Serenity Baby Wrap Carrier. It’s a lighter, more breathable version of the brand’s classic wrap made from a soft bamboo fabric blend.

Like lots of other wraps, this one takes a little getting used to; this video tutorial can help.

What Babylist Parents Say

“This wrap is great! Our baby loves it and settles down to people-watch while being held against me. She gets the safety of me being nearby and the tightness of a warm swaddle. Watch a video and read the instructions on how to tie it before tying it. There’s a bit of a learning curve but it’s a great product once you’ve figured it out.” -Lyssa

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Easy to get on and off
• Soft, stretchy fabric
• Sized for wearer

What Our Experts Think

There’s no getting around the learning curve that comes with most baby wraps. We love the Baby K’Tan because it has all the benefits of a wrap without requiring you to actually do any of the wrapping. (Win!) Made of a 100% natural cotton with a bit of stretch, the double-loop design evenly distributes weight across your shoulders and back in any of the carrying positions. Better yet, there isn’t an overwhelming amount of fabric to figure out—it goes on like a T-shirt in three easy steps. The included sash adds extra support and does double duty as a carrier storage bag.

What’s Worth Considering

The K’Tan comes in sizes ranging from 0-24, so you can find a good fit for your body. But the downside is that you can’t share it with a caregiver that isn’t your size. Some parents say the fabric gets a little too stretchy (but goes back to normal after it’s washed), so you may want to go down a size to ensure a snug fit.

In addition to the OG style, Baby K’tan wraps come in many other fabric styles for different preferences and climates. There’s an organic option, a lightweight cotton style and a wrap made from wicking fabric, among others.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Baby K’Tan is super easy to use and the baby feels snug and comfortable. It’s convenient to use even with a newborn with the ‘Kangaroo’ position. Even now that my daughter is getting heavier I feel that the support is great and there is minimal strain on my back.” -Mirena

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Handcrafted in small batches by local artisans
• Available in several different fabrics (including silk!)
• Soft and luxurious

What Our Experts Think

Sakura Bloom ring slings are just as beautiful as they are functional. Made in California and crafted in small batches, these slings come in a variety of fabrics including bamboo, linen and even ultra-luxe silk. They work from the newborn days through the toddler years and are easy to store in your bag or stroller when you’re on the go with your little one.

What’s Worth Considering

Sakura Bloom has a whole section of their website dedicated to tutorials, packed with both tips for wearing your wrap as well as care and washing.

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Wrap + structured carrier hybrid
• Made from comfy but supportive fabric
• Not ideal for larger wearers

What Our Experts Think

If you’re struggling with mastering a baby wrap but are still looking for a carrier that provides similar closeness, check out the ComfyFit from Boppy. It’s a hybrid carrier that combines the comfort of a wrap with the ease and support of a more structured carrier and a good option for many parents. The carrier is made from soft, breathable fabric with a touch of spandex and goes on in three simple steps (we promise). There’s a padded waist belt for extra support and wide shoulder straps to help distribute weight. We also like the zippered pocket for stashing away essentials.

What’s Worth Considering

This carrier isn’t ideal if you have a larger body type, as many parents note the shoulder straps can be too tight and restrictive.

And if you like the idea of a hybrid carrier, you’ll also want to check out Boppy’s ComfyHug Hybrid, specifically designed for newborns.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Finally someone has figured out how to combine the convenience of a structured carrier with the comfort of a wrap! I wore this for a walk and found it to be a little too bouncy, but I really like it for around the house. I was able to put it on myself which is very convenient and I also really like how baby can face forward with their hips well supported.” -JM

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Closeness of wrap + ease of a more structured carrier
• Fits many sizes
• Can be used from 8-33 pounds

What Our Experts Think

The Moby Classic Wrap has been a parent favorite and a popular choice among babywearers for years; however, since it’s just one long piece of fabric, it can be tricky to get the hang of and frustrating for some parents. The brand’s Easy Wrap solves for this issue.

This 100% cotton T-shirt style hybrid carrier combines the closeness of a wrap with the ease of a more structured carrier. There are simple buckles on the sides to adjust the fit and padded back support for extra comfort if you’re babywearing for an extended period of time. It works for all size wearers, and supports baby in both the inward and outward-facing positions.

What’s Worth Considering

Some users complain that the side buckles dig into their back and sides a bit.

What Babylist Parents Say

“I’m on my fourth child, and have tried every baby carrier under the sun. This one is definitely the easiest and doesn’t require two people to put it on. While hubby is at work, bambino and I can have our dance sessions and get housework done together. Moby, thank you for creating something so safe yet so comfy.” -AmyBaby260

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Quick and foolproof
• Geared toward needs of newborns and their parents
• Inward and outward carry positions

What Our Experts Think

Ease is the name of the game here as the last thing you need to deal with when your newborn is screaming is fumbling around with a complicated baby carrier. The BabyBjorn Mini is simple, straightforward and brilliant and perfect for parents who want a quick, secure way to carry their baby during the early months. All it takes is a few buckles and you’re on your way. (It’s even simple to get your baby in and out if they’re asleep.) It’s also light enough to toss in your diaper bag or store in your stroller basket.

What’s Worth Considering

Larger babies may outgrow the Mini sooner than you’d like. There’s no waistband, which some say leads to back and shoulder strain when wearing it for too long. (Check out the BabyBjorn Carrier One for a carrier with a waistband that offers more carry positions.)

For another foolproof carrier that’s just right for those first few months (and beyond), take a look at the Ergobaby Embrace.

What Babylist Parents Say

“So easy to use. Not a lot of bells and whistles, but it’s easy for first-time parents to figure out.” -Mel

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• 30-50% lighter than most SSCs on the market
• Eco-friendly linen
• Gorgeous patterns and colors

What Our Experts Think

Just as stylish as they are useful, Happy! carriers are emerging as one of the favorite new(ish) brands in the SSC universe. This carrier’s best feature is its weight—or lack thereof. It’s made from linen and is about 30-50% lighter than other similarly-styled carriers on the market, which makes a big difference if you live in a warmer climate or are someone who easily overheats when you’re babywearing. Other features we love include the easy-to-adjust fit, comfort factor and that they’re handmade in the USA.

What’s Worth Considering

Less bulk and padding is what makes this carrier great, but also what some parents complain about—it can be a little less comfortable for longer babywearing sessions or with heavier babies.

Happy Baby also makes several other (just as beautiful) styles of carriers including the Revolution (forward-facing option), a toddler carrier, a stretchy wrap and an Onbuhimo (a Japanese-inspired waistless carrier).

What Babylist Parents Say

“This carrier is so supportive, my hands are free to take care of my other children, and it fits easily inside my diaper bag.” -Kim

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Lightweight and breathable
• 4 carry positions
• Works through toddlerhood

What Our Experts Think

The Omni Breeze has so many great features going for it that it’s hard to choose just one. The first thing you’ll notice is probably the incredibly soft, lightweight fabric that Ergobaby used here. Covered in a special mesh, the Breeze is super breathable and comfortable to wear even when the temperatures start to rise. (Trust us, we tried!) That’s not the case with lots of other SSCs, so it’s a pretty big perk.

Just as amazing are all the carry positions the Breeze offers. Front-inward, front-outward, back and hip carries are all doable with this carrier. It works from the newborn days well through toddlerhood and, like all Ergobaby carriers, is really comfortable for both babies and babywearers thanks to the ergonomic design and tons of adjustment options.

What’s Worth Considering

SSCs can be tricky to get on by yourself, especially in certain carry positions, so keep that in mind.

You may also want to check out the brand’s Omni Dream Baby Carrier. Although not specifically designed for warm climates, it’s made from the brand’s softest fabric, a SoftTouch Cotton, and is incredibly comfortable for both you and your little one.

What Babylist Parents Say

“This carrier is 100x better than the previous one I was using. I love the lumbar support and the cool mesh (especially living in Florida). It was a bit of a learning curve compared to my previous carrier but I cannot recommend this enough! 10/10!” - Julie

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• So soft and comfortable
• 3 carry positions
• Ergonomic design

What Our Experts Think

Well known (and loved) for their baby carriers, the Harmony carrier from Babybjörn does not disappoint. It’s one of the softest, most comfortable structured carrier that we’ve tried, made from a unique 3D mesh that’s both breathable yet supportive.

Like other Babybjörn carriers, the Harmony is ergonomic and easy to wear for lots of different body types. It has a wide seat, which helps to put your baby in the correct position by keeping their bottom low and their legs wide apart. There are three different carry positions and lots of padding so you can wear your baby for an extended period of time without feeling pressure on your shoulders or back, including a pressure-relieving waist belt.

What’s Worth Considering

There’s no hip carry option with this carrier. It also has a bit of a lower weight limit than some other SSCs at 40 pounds.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Easy to assemble and fit snugly. The straps adjust quickly to make changes when needed. Carrying my baby is actually quite comfortable with this carrier. When it fits appropriately, all the weight rests on my hips and doesn’t strain my back or shoulders. This is a great carrier that I highly recommend!” -Mimi

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Incredibly well-priced
• Lightweight and breathable
• Adjustable

What Our Experts Think

You don’t always need to part with a ton of cash for a great baby product. At under $40, the Infantino Flip is a fantastic deal and a fantastic carrier for the price. It fits kids and parents of all sizes thanks to the numerous points where you can adjust straps and buckles. The convertible seat can be narrow for newborns or made wider for bigger kids to keep legs in a hip-healthy position. And, there’s no overheating in this carrier—it’s lightweight and breathable for both you and your little one.

What’s Worth Considering

The only way to get your child into the back-carry position is with someone’s help. Also, some parents find this carrier works better for newborns when you add a rolled up towel or blanket to the bottom of the seat to act as a booster.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Affordable, easy to put on, distributes baby’s weight pretty well, has a removable bib to catch spit up and drool.” -C.B.

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Can be used from day one through toddler years
• Three carry positions
• Fun prints and patterns

What Our Experts Think

The Tula has extra padding around the leg openings and a wide base and high back to keep bigger kids comfy while babywearing. There’s also a high weight limit—45 pounds—so you’ll be able to use it well into toddlerhood and beyond.

These carriers come in some of the most fun, modern prints around. They’re versatile, long-lasting SSCs that are easy to use, comfortable and have three different carry positions. The Explore is lightweight and can be adjusted in several different spots for a personalized fit. It’s made from 100% cotton and is machine washable so you can toss it right in the wash when it starts to get icky. Just note that some parents mention it can be tough to get on solo if you’re doing a back carry.

What’s Worth Considering

We love the Explore because it works well both for younger babies and toddlers. If you’re looking for a toddler-only baby carrier, try the Tula Toddler Carrier. It’s specifically designed for kids ages two to six and can be used up to 60 pounds, and offers either a front or back carry option.

What Babylist Parents Say

“It’s easy to use and comfortable for long stretches. Also very easy to adjust, so my husband and I can swap back and forth with minimal hassle. I hesitated to spend this much on a carrier, but I haven’t been disappointed. Plus, it has a lot of versatility, so I’m hoping it’ll be the only one we ever need.” -Emily

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Six carry positions
• Mesh panel for temperature regulation
• Works from newborn to toddlerhood

What Our Experts Think

This all-seasons, six-position carrier has a unique feature to keep your baby comfortable, no matter the outside temperature. When the back panel is zipped up, the carrier creates a cozy cocoon. Getting hot outside? Unzip it and the inner mesh lining keeps your baby cool by increasing air flow. With a 45-pound weight limit and top-notch lumbar support, this carrier is a great investment that will last well into toddlerhood.

What’s Worth Considering

This carrier has a wider seat than most, which improves weight distribution and really comes in handy (for both of you!) as your kiddo grows. It also has a longer torso, which may not be the best fit if you’re petite.

What Babylist Parents Say

“The Lillebaby complete is amazing. I love the lumbar support, the head support for baby, the fact that you don’t need an infant insert and that it grows with your child. It’s easy to adjust between people wearing baby as well. Love it.” -Lauren

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Versatile
• Works for babies and toddlers
• Storage pockets and sleep hoods

What Our Experts Think

Need to haul double the load? The TwinGo is our baby carrier of choice for parents of twins. This carrier is so versatile. It can be used as one twin baby carrier, two independent front carriers, two independent back carriers or one independent hip carrier. It also features XL storage pockets (you can never have enough of those, especially when you’re babywearing twice the fun), a waistband that adjusts up to 100 inches and shoulder straps that work for parents and caregivers up to 6’5”, sleep hoods and lots more.

What’s Worth Considering

In order to do the dual carry, babies must be at least four months old, have well-developed head and neck control and be tall enough that their heads are outside the carrier and their legs are long enough to straddle the carrier’s panel. For a twin baby carrier better suited for the first six months, check out the WeeGo.

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Tops for fit, comfort and storage
• Works well for hikers of different heights
• Expensive

What Our Experts Think

Fit, comfort and storage space put this hiking baby carrier at the top of the list if you’re hitting the trails with the littlest member of your family. The aluminum frame pack features a fully adjustable hip belt and shoulder straps and an adjustable torso section so it can be used by wearers of different heights. It’s also really, really comfortable; users rave about the way the carrier distributes weight. (The arched design helps put most of your child’s weight on your hips, making it easier to carry them comfortably even for long stretches of time.) Other extras include a built-in daypack, mesh ventilation, ergonomic cushioning and a safety harness system with color-coded buckles for ease of use.

What’s Worth Considering

Hiking carriers are an investment, so be sure to either try a few out before you buy or purchase the carrier from a store or website with a good return policy.

Additional Specs

The Scoop

• Carrier alternative for babies who love to be held
• Built-in pocket to stash diapers, wipes, etc.
• Still need arm around baby

What Our Experts Think

Have a baby or toddler who loves to be carried but isn’t a fan of babywearing? Need something to help a grandparent or older caregiver carry your little one? A relatively new and unique addition to the babywearing scene, hip seat carriers are simple, straightforward and particularly useful in certain situations. Tushbaby positions your toddler in a natural carry position on your hip—but with a little help. It features a support belt that distributes your little one’s weight, lumbar support to help your back and a memory foam-lined seat where your child’s bum rests. There are also storage pockets to hold your phone, keys and wallet.

What’s Worth Considering

You won’t be able to go hands-free with a hip seat carrier; you’ll need an arm around your little one at all times. If your waist is larger than 44 inches, you’ll need to add the Waistband Extender.

What Babylist Parents Say

“I am a grandma of a 2-year-old girl; she weighs 31 pounds and this item has saved my back!!! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!! I wear it on our walks because she gets tired and wants to be picked up. I wear it at stores, restaurants, everywhere!! I can put my phone, her water bottle and my wallet in it.” -Maria

Additional Specs