If you have never used a baby carrier before, it can be a little bit intimidating. Some of them can look like you need a four hundred page manual just to figure out how to snap it on! However, there are many different kinds of baby carriers and most are not as difficult as you might think to use.
Why Use a Baby Carrier?
For thousands of years, mothers throughout the world have used baby carriers to keep their little ones close. Granted, many of these were baby carrier slings and didn’t have the buttons, buckles, snaps, and zippers that are now available. However, the benefits of having your child close to you cannot be overlooked. You will also have your hands free, in most cases, making it a little easier to complete a task.
As a baby is carried close to the body, they can hear your heartbeat. This is very soothing to the baby, as it the warmth from your body. Since babies also tune in to certain smells, your baby will love the familiar scent of their parents. This is really a terrific way to bond with your baby.
Why Some People Don’t Use a Baby Carrier
There are many moms and dads that don’t like to use a baby carrier. It may seem too complicated on some of the “high-tech” carriers. Others have back and shoulder problems that can be aggravated by carrying the weight of the baby. Some parents may not want to use the baby carrier if they are feeling ill and want to prevent giving the sickness to their baby.
What Are the Different Types of Baby Carriers?
There are three main types of baby carriers: a baby front carrier, a baby back carrier, and baby hip carriers. However, there are many variations of these types of baby carriers. While the main function of these baby carriers is to “carry the baby,” it’s accomplished in different ways. Here are some of the most popular types of baby carriers and some of the available variations.
Front Baby Carriers
This type of carrier is preferred by many people for small infants. The baby is cradled against the chest and close to the parent’s heart. One of the most common forms of this carrier is the Snugi. It has straps that go over the parent’s shoulders and a buckle that fastens around the midsection. The baby’s legs are placed through holes at the bottom of the carrier. The part of the carrier that covers the front of the baby goes up about mid chest. The back of the carrier is somewhat stiff to prevent the baby’s head from falling backwards. However, this type of carrier can be turned around when the baby is a little older and can hold their head up on their own.
Front baby carriers can also include slings, which are light large pieces of cloth that is tied around the neck. The baby is laid in the cloth that acts like a sling. This is often a very comfortable position for the baby and the mother.
A kangaroo baby carrier is very similar. However, this baby pouch has some extra storage, such as a zippered area on the back. This can eliminate the need for a purse, which can help leave your hands free.
Back Baby Carriers
These are a lot for fun for babies that are a little bit older. The baby is carried on the parents back, which can much easier on the parent’s muscles! It’s also referred to as a baby backpack and your baby will enjoy being able to see what is going on around them. This requires some getting used to when it comes to putting the baby up on your back and setting them down. Make sure the straps are snug and connected correctly. Also, make sure the baby fits snugly inside the back carrier.
Hip Carriers
These are also called side carriers and have recently gained in popularity. This type of carrier allows you carry your baby naturally on your hip. It can be used for baby from three months to three years old, which is much longer than the other types of carriers. It’s very comfortable for the child and the mother. Most are reversible without even changing the straps or buckles. You can put the baby in and take them out very easily in this type of carrier.
In Closing
Some women are not comfortable this type of carrier, but others swear they wouldn’t carry their baby any other way. It allows for bonding between the parent and the child, which is one of the most important things of all.
Avoid purchasing a used carrier, as you never know if it has been resewn or had some other problem. Make sure the baby carrier is snug both on your body and the baby’s. Before you decide that a carrier is not for you, you should use it several times to get accustomed to it. You may find that it’s a great way to spend time with your baby.
