Adjusting to life with your newborn baby is something most parents marvel at. Every stretch, every yawn, every coo feels like a not to be missed moment. So for some parents, wearing their baby is a dream come true — it’s a hands-free way to keep their baby close. Baby-wearing also helps to soothe and calm a fussy baby, and can even help get baby to sleep.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) approves of baby-wearing for a variety of reasons. It creates a safe way to bond with baby and promotes emotional and physical development. Wearing your baby can also reduce crying and allow for more eye-to-eye contact. But if you find yourself asking what is the best baby carrier for newborn and even is it safe to use baby carrier for newborn, don’t stress — we’re diving into all things baby-wearing below:

Sling Carriers for Newborns

A sling carrier is a great starter carrier for newborns as it’s meant to mimic life inside the womb, and in those first few weeks and months of life, your baby is adjusting to life outside of the womb. This is known as the “fourth trimester” and anything that keeps baby snuggled and wrapped tight is a familiar feeling to your little one as it resembles the warm, cozy space they’ve been percolating in for the past nine months. So a baby sling wrap carrier for newborns is a comfortable way to keep baby close and comfortable.

Slings are basically a sash-like device made of soft, breathable fabric. Typically worn across one shoulder, the sling creates a space for baby right across your middle – perfect to resemble that womb-like feeling that baby is used to.  

Most slings can be used starting at around 8lbs, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions as they vary by weight and size.

The Boba Wrap Baby Carrier Original Stretchy Infant Sling is a parent fave for its ease of use. It has “simple, no-guess tying” instructions and comes in one size, which makes this wrap affordable as anyone caring for your baby can use it. Made with spandex, it keeps its shape and doesn’t loosen or sag when re-adjusted. Just like your favorite yoga pants, the wrap stretches and supports you and your baby with every wear.

Wrap Carriers for Newborns

Wrap carriers are similar to sling carriers in that they’re typically made of soft, stretchy fabrics, but wrap carriers usually wrap around both shoulders. Some parents find this more supportive than a sling carrier for their newborn, so if possible, head over to your local retailer and get an in-person tutorial on what might work best for you.

With so many benefits of baby-wearing, it’s good to keep in mind that body-to-body contact can create heat, so it’s important that the carrier you choose is light-weight and made of breathable materials like cotton and muslin.

When it comes to the best baby wrap carrier for newborn, comfort is key. Again, that’s where fabric choice comes in to ensure that both the baby and baby wearer are kept cool whether at home, on a walk, or out running errands.

Fit is also an important factor in choosing a carrier. Typically, they are sized the same way as the clothes you wear, so choose accordingly, keeping your baby’s weight in mind as well. Something else to consider is that when carriers are specifically sized, ie: small, medium, large, it may mean that mom, dad, grandma, or other caregivers, can’t share the same carrier. If price is an issue, and let’s face it, when isn’t it?, then it may be better to consider more affordable carriers that have more flexibility when it comes to something every baby caregiver can use. There are plenty of carriers out there that have adjustable sizing, so factor that in when looking for the best carrier for your family.

Baby K’Tan is a brand that shows up over and over and over again when it comes to baby-wearing. Parents appreciate the organic and super soft breathable fabric that can be worn in 5 different ways, depending on your baby’s size and development. Worn like a T-shirt, this carrier is also celebrated for it’s simple instructions and versatility.

Best Carrier for Nursing Your Newborn

When it comes to the best baby carrier for breastfeeding your newborn, keep in mind the factors mentioned above for comfort and fit. Some parents buy their carrier based on how easy it is to breastfeed on the go. While slings and wraps offer support and discretion when it comes to nursing, another option is a hipseat carrier.

A hipseat carrier is a simple and easy-to-use device that wraps around your waist and sits above your hips. Hipseat carriers are not handsfree, but when it comes to nursing your baby, the secure, shelf-like seat is a great place to put baby for easy breastfeeding access. The Tushbaby hipseat carrier can be used for breastfeeding support, weighs less than 1lb, and is also machine washable.

Tushbaby is a versatile option for baby-wearing as it can also be used as a carrier when baby is older. It is safety certified, has an ergonomic design, and is doctor approved for keeping your little one’s hips in the pediatric-recommended “M” position. It also doubles as a fanny pack with five extra pockets to store everything from extra diapers and wipes to your wallet, keys, and bottles. Did we mention that Tushbaby alleviates back and shoulder pain and puts less stress on your upper body? All of which make it a must-have on baby registries everywhere!

Tushbaby and Your Baby With Special Needs

Parenting a baby with special needs has its own set of unique challenges. That’s why Tushbaby donates our products to The LENN Foundation to help support children with cerebral palsy. If your child has cerebral palsy, please reach out to The LENN Foundation directly at team@thelennfoundation.org for a free Tushbaby hipseat carrier.

We also provide a 25% discount to all families with kids with special needs. If you’re a family with special needs, please email customerlove@tushbaby.com for your promo code.