Baby Carriers! Do You Really Need One?

Do you really need a baby carrier?  Yes, Yes and Yes.  I suggest you purchase a baby carrier, I do not know what I would have done without mine.

There are three main types of baby carriers these days.  You can choose from a front carrier, a backpack carrier or a sling/wrap.

The front carrier is a very popular choice.  It gives you the option of having the baby face you when he/she is a newborn, and then you can turn the baby to face forward as he/she gets older.  It evenly distributes the baby’s weight so that it is not too hard on your back.  They adjust as the baby grows.  In my opinion they are much easier to use than a backpack carrier when you are by yourself.

The backpack carriers keep the baby pretty high up on the parents back.  They are easier on your back when you are going to be carrying the baby for a long period of time.  Backpack carriers are not suitable for newborns, as they cannot be used until the baby can control his/her head.

Finally, you have the sling or wrap.  I am finding these types of carriers are becoming increasingly popular.  They usually come in two styles, one in which the baby is in front of the parent and the other rests the baby on the parents hip.  These seem to work best for newborns and young infants.  They really cradle the baby and keep him/her close to the parent.  They offer the baby a lot of support when used properly, and are very helpful for nursing mothers.

I highly recommend every parent buy a baby carrier.  New babies crave contact with their parents.  They’ve just spent nine months being cradled inside the mother’s womb, and can have a very hard time adjusting to life on the outside.  Keep in mind that the experts and doctors say that you cannot spoil a newborn.  That gives you three months to hold your baby as often as you want or he/she wants.  Not to mention, using a baby carrier keeps your hands free to do other things that need to be done.  Everyone will tell you to sleep when the baby sleeps, but if you have a ton of stuff to do around the house you know you are not going to take a nap.  Wearing your baby will give you the time you need to keep up with some of the important chores, so that you can get the rest you need when the baby is sleeping.

I suggest when picking out a baby carrier that you try them on, and see which style you find to be most comfortable.  Also check out the ease.  If you pick a carrier that is too complicated  chances are, you won’t use it.  My preference was the Baby Bjorn front carrier.  When buying a baby carrier you get what you pay for.  I tried some less expensive brands, and they were either too uncomfortable for me or were very irritating for the baby.  In my opinion baby carriers are a very useful item.