If you’re like most parents, you’re excited to bond with your newborn and introduce them to the wide, wild, and wonderful world. Babywearing provides an amazing opportunity to do both! Baby carriers can be used for newborns and toddlers, and everything in between. When choosing a baby carrier for your newborn, you will want to take careful consideration of their developmental needs and choose an appropriate option that will be safe, secure, and comfortable.

Best Types of Baby Carriers for Newborns

The good news is that you shouldn’t have any problems babywearing with a newborn, if you choose the right baby carrier. The best baby carriers for newborns include wraps and front structured carriers.

Wraps

Wraps are great for newborns because of their versatility and flexibility. Wraps are made out of soft fabric that is comfortable for newborns and can be positioned in a variety of setups. For example, wraps can be used to while laying, while breastfeeding, and upright. They provide enough support to newborns’ heads and necks, which is crucial during this developmental stage. Our wrap-style carrier Together is popular among parents who enjoy the comfort of wraps, but don’t want the complexity of wrapping and tying a large panel of fabric.

Front Structured Carriers

The front structured carrier is perfect for newborns because it provides the head and neck support they need. Because there are many different versions of front structured carriers, you want to make sure you get one that is specifically suited for newborns or has the inserts necessary to fit small babies. Our Flip Advanced carrier is one example, because it can be used from infancy to toddler-sized children, depending on how it’s configured. It features a collapsible neck support pad, an expandable seat, and even a fold-down bib!

Things to Consider With Newborn Babywearing

Now that you have some newborn carrier options, let’s look at some of the most important things to keep in mind when carrying a small baby:

• Always make sure that their airway is clear of any blockages. One of the risks of wraps is that they can get in the way of baby’s breathing. Always check on your baby to make sure they can breathe in the carrier.
• Likewise, make sure your baby’s chin stays up so they don’t risk suffocation.
• Neck support is crucial for newborns in carriers. Make sure you are using a carrier fitted for this need.
• Always check your baby’s circulation to make sure nothing is tied too tight or they aren’t in a restricting position. If you notice that their legs or toes are getting cold, readjust or simply take a short break from the carrier.

When carrying a newborn, continuously check on them in their carrier. Babywearing is a great way to bond with your little one, but requires supervision and a little bit of education on how to use a baby carrier to get it just right.

Why Babywear?

The numbers don’t lie - research has shown that babies who are carried cry (on average) 43% less overall and 54% less during the evening hours. In addition, babywearing allows parents and babies to bond through almost all senses and comforts even the most restless of little ones. Your baby will be soothed to sleep by your heartbeat, breath, and movements. Plus, it leaves your hands free!

Some of the most notable benefits of carrying your baby include:

• Bonding between wearer and baby
• Keeps baby sheltered and within reach
• Increased vertical tummy time
• Great for nursing moms
• Enhanced mental development
• Stimulated emotional and physical development
• You can ditch the stroller

Finding the right carrier for your newborn is just the first step in a long and beneficial relationship of babywearing. Whether you just plan to carry your baby for a few months or want to do it for as long as possible, Infantino has the carrier for you.