If you’re expecting a new baby or you’ve recently welcomed a new baby into the world, you might be curious to know more about baby carriers. At first glance, they look easy to use compared to pushing around a large pram, especially in tight spaces, but are they useful? We take a look at some of the pros and cons of baby carriers so you can decide whether you want to purchase one.
Free hands
If your baby wants to be held and enjoys being close to you at all times, it can take a lot of work to get anything achieved. Even eating can become a challenge when you’re using both arms to hold your baby. A baby carrier will keep your hands free, which can be a big help if you need to go shopping or feed yourself a quick snack.
Help with baby development
When your baby is in a forward-facing carrier, they will be able to see and experience everything that you see and experience. This is great for their development; they can easily interact with people and things in their environment that might not be as accessible if they’re in a pram. Not only that they will be able to explore more things, but you also won’t be constrained to walking places with fixed paths that will accommodate your pram or pushchair; instead, you can go almost anywhere with your baby strapped safely in a baby carrier.
Time restrictions
Baby carriers should only be used for short periods of time, up to two hours. Long stints in a baby carrier can result in issues for your child. Long full-day hikes with your baby might be out of the question without a pram or pushchair, but you can enjoy an hour or maximum two hours walk or shopping trip using a baby carrier.
Back pain
Some people might find that a baby carrier causes back pain. If this is the case, you should stop using the carrier or look at adjustments you can make to increase your comfort. Your baby carrier needs to be tight, and your baby should sit high up on your body. If the straps are too loose or your baby is too low, it may increase the risk of experiencing back pain when wearing the carrier.
Adjustable
Many baby carriers are adjustable, which means you can use them in a variety of positions to increase comfort and make them suitable for your baby at different ages. The Ergobaby carrier is suitable for babies from birth to 48 months. By buying a baby carrier that can adapt and change as your baby grows, you can save money as you won’t need to purchase additional carriers.
Risk of falling
If baby carriers are not fitted correctly, or they’re worn when the adult is walking over uneven surfaces, issues can arise. Babies have been injured and even died in the past when adults have fallen over when they’re wearing a baby carrier or the baby has fallen out of the carrier. Always prioritise safety and ensure that the baby carrier is securely fastened. You should also tread carefully and avoid any uneven surfaces when using a baby carrier. Only wear one if you feel awake and comfortable that you’re unlikely to fall over.
Promote sleep
Babies are more likely to fall asleep when they’re carried by their parents. Some people find that baby carriers are great for getting in quick naps during the day when they need to complete other tasks. However, you should only keep your baby in the carrier for a maximum of two hours and make sure they are in a safe position and won't be at risk of asphyxiation. Always monitor your baby closely when they’re sleeping in their carrier to keep them safe.
Whether you choose to use a baby carrier is completely your decision. Many parents find them useful, while others prefer to stick to a pram. Speak to parents you know and get their take on a baby carrier before you buy one for your child. You can also ask on forums if you don’t know anyone that has recently had a baby.