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Wraps & Newborn Carriers
You can skip the newborn-specific carrier if you want, and either get a soft-structured carrier that works for newborns or buy the right insert for it. However, newborn inserts often cost almost as much as a wrap, so you may as well get a separate one. Wraps also take up very little space, so you can easily throw one in the diaper bag when heading out. All of these are good ones:
Solly Baby Wrap: Soft, lightweight and breathable. A favorite for the newborn months.
Boba Wrap: A stretchy, affordable wrap that’s cozy for tiny babies.
Baby K’tan Original: No long fabric to tie. It’s pre-shaped loops you slip on like a t-shirt, so it’s the easiest wrap to learn.
Moby Wrap Classic: The classic stretchy wrap. It takes a little practice to tie, but it’s comfortable for long stretches.
Ergobaby Embrace: If you’d rather have buckles than a wrap, this is a soft, newborn-friendly carrier that’s easy to get on and off.
Soft-Structured Carriers
This is great to have, and depending on your lifestyle, it may be a must-have. Soft-structured carriers offer more support than wraps and slings, and they can be used into toddlerhood. If you live in the city, walk everywhere, or spend a lot of time at museums, farmers markets, festivals or other places where you don’t always want a stroller, this is a must-have! I still carried my three-year-old on my back in ours.
Ergobaby Omni Deluxe: We have the original Ergo and love it. I loved being able to carry on my back, and I wore my daughter on my back until the day before I gave birth to my son. The original Ergo isn’t made anymore, and the Omni line is today’s version. It works from newborn (7 lbs+) without an insert, has four carry positions including facing out and back carry, and has a storage pouch for your keys or chapstick.
Tula Explore: People love Tula carriers. The Explore works from newborn to toddler and adds a forward-facing position.
BabyBjorn Harmony: Everyone used to complain of back pain with the original BabyBjorn once baby got heavier. Their newer carriers like the Harmony spread the weight better across your hips and shoulders, and the mesh keeps you both cooler.
LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons: I’ve heard good things about this one as well. It has multiple carry positions and a zip-down panel for warmer days.