Babywearing is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to nurture a deep bond with your little one. Beyond being a practical solution for multitasking—it’s a comforting, safe place where your baby feels secure, their cues are easily noticed, and your connection grows stronger every day. Whether you’re just starting out as a parent or are a new mother looking for a more hands-on way to care for your little one, babywearing supports both your baby’s needs and your need to move through the day with ease.

Every baby and family is unique. The right carrier can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore soft-structured carriers, ring slings, knit wraps, and hybrid carriers—showing you how to use each safely, offering tips for breastfeeding while babywearing, and highlighting what makes each one special.

Benefits of Babywearing

In addition to practical convenience, babywearing supports:

  • Healthy hip and spine development
  • Cognitive and emotional growth
  • A lasting sense of security and attachment
  • Early language development
  • Stress reduction and confidence boost for new parents

Check out our Benefits of Babywearing Care Guide for a deeper dive into all the ways babywearing supports both you and your little one.

Safety Guidelines for All Carriers

No matter which baby carrier you choose, keeping your baby safe is the foundation of your babywearing experience:

  • Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance for weight and age limitations.
  • Airway: Baby’s face should always be visible, with nose and mouth clear.
  • Height: They should be positioned high enough to kiss the top of their head. 
  • Support: Always ensure your baby’s neck, back, and hips are well-supported. Check your baby frequently for comfort and temperature.
  • Legs: Ensure that baby's knees are higher than their bottom—in an “M” position—to help reduce the risk of hip dysplasia.
  • Extra help: When learning how to use a new carrier, have another adult nearby if possible.

With these safety basics in place, you can enjoy the closeness and bonding babywearing brings, giving both of you a true sense of security.

Cleaning & Maintenance Tips

  • Most wraps and slings can be machine washed on gentle cycles.
  • Soft-structured and hybrid carriers often have removable covers for easy care.
  • Regularly inspect straps, buckles, and fabric for wear and tear to maintain safety.

Options for Babywearing

Ring Slings

A ring sling is a long piece of fabric gathered at one shoulder with a ring. It's lightweight, breathable, and ideal for newborns and young babies, giving them a safe place while you move through your daily activities. The snug fit encourages close contact, promoting secure attachment.

Breastfeeding tip: Loosen the fabric to bring your baby to breast height using either the cradle or upright position. Both positions allow your baby to feed comfortably while staying supported. You can also use the extra “tail” of fabric for added privacy if desired. Always return your baby to a safe, kissable position when you finish breastfeeding.

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Easily adjustable for all body types and sizes
  • Supports discreet and comfortable breastfeeding

Cons

  • Uneven weight distribution on just one shoulder at a time

Knit Wraps

Knit wraps are long, stretchy pieces of fabric that can be tied in multiple ways, perfect for doing chores around the house or taking longer walks. They provide full-body support for your little one, helping prevent "flat head syndrome" and encouraging healthy spine and hip development.

Because the wrap allows snug, adjustable support, it’s easy to respond to your baby’s cues, and the closeness encourages emotional connection and early cognitive development. The wrap distributes weight evenly across your back, waist, and shoulders and can easily be adjusted for multiple caregivers. The versatility of knit wraps makes them ideal for parents who want to turn everyday tasks into shared moments of connection.

Breastfeeding tip: Loosen or adjust the fabric to create space, then either cradle your baby or place them in an upright position. Both positions keep your baby close, secure, and comfortable, whether you’re sitting, walking, or gently moving around. After feeding, be sure your baby is back in a safe, close position where you can easily see and kiss them.

Pros

  • Comfortable and versatile - they come in a variety of fabric weights
  • Adjustable for all body types and sizes
  • Supports extended periods of babywearing

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve to get it right
  • Can feel warm in hot weather

Soft-Structured Carriers

Soft-structured carriers are supportive and beginner-friendly, ideal for parents seeking comfort and ease of use. With padded shoulder straps, waistbands, back support, and sometimes a hood, soft-structured carriers provide a safe place for your baby during daily activities, errands, or outdoor adventures.

These carriers allow for front, back, and hip carrying, giving babies the chance to experience closeness while developing healthy hips and spine support. As your baby grows, adjust the seat width and strap tension to ensure continued hip support and comfort for both you and your little one. Frequent eye contact, gentle movement, and skin-to-skin touch elevate babywearing to a whole new level, giving parents confidence while meeting their baby's needs as they grow.

Breastfeeding tip: Gently position your baby in either the cradle or upright position, adjusting the straps and hood as needed for your—and your baby's—comfort. When breastfeeding is done, place your baby in a safe, kissable position.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Hood option to protect baby from the sun and during naps
  • Pocket for small items, like a diaper and wipes
  • Good back and shoulder support

Cons

  • Best for babies 3 months+
  • Bulkier to store
  • Heavier and warmer
  • Size adjustments needed for multiple users

Hybrid Carriers

Hybrid carriers combine the comfort of a wrap with the structured support of a buckle carrier. They are excellent for parents who want flexibility without sacrificing support. These carriers are adjustable for multiple caregivers and adjusted for different ages and stages, from infancy to toddlerhood.

Breastfeeding tip: Supports cradle or upright positions, keeping babies snug and cozy during feeds. The structured design can help maintain comfort for parents while feeding in various positions. Always make sure your baby is returned to a safe position once feeding is finished.

Pros

  • Adjustable for multiple caregivers
  • Suitable for a wide age range
  • Lightweight and cooler
  • Shoulder padding

Cons

  • Requires some practice
  • Limited sun protection

What Makes Each Carrier Unique?

  • Soft-Structured Carriers: Great way for parents to carry little ones comfortably while providing close physical contact and support healthy hip development. 
  • Ring Slings: Perfect for young babies needing quick, lightweight, and adjustable carrying, especially in warm weather or for short errands.
  • Knit Wraps: Highly versatile and adaptable for all body types, ideal for long periods of babywearing and creative carrying positions.
  • Hybrid Carriers: Combine the comfort and security of structured carriers with the flexibility of a wrap, making them a good choice for multiple caregivers or a wide age range of infants and even toddlers. 

Choosing the Right Carrier

  • Newborns: Ring sling or knit wrap
  • Older infants/toddlers: Soft-structured or hybrid carriers
  • Climate: Lightweight fabrics for hot weather, heavier weighted options for cooler climates
  • Lifestyle: Structured carriers may be preferred for outdoor daily activities

Babywearing turns everyday moments into opportunities for closeness and connection. By exploring different carriers—or having more than one—you can discover what works best for your baby and your lifestyle, creating a home base of comfort, love, and security. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to nurture your little one while strengthening your bond—one gentle hug at a time.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.