Baby carrier buying guide

Strap-on carriers are designed for babies weighing from 7 or 8 pounds up to 25 to 32 pounds, depending on the brand. Some strap-on carriers can be used from infancy (the minimum weight is about 8 pounds) in the inward-facing position, then outward-facing for children with full head control up to 25 pounds. Some can be used for full-term babies who weigh as little as 6 pounds, and some, like the Weego Preemie, are for babies who weigh as little as 3 pounds.

Expecting twins? There are some strap-on carriers for two, such as the Maximom Twin Baby Carrier, which allows two babies to be carried in front of you. This might sound ambitious, but some parents love being able to move around with their babies while keeping them close. Weego also makes a carrier for twins–which it says can be used for preemies until they're about 5 or 6 months old–although they may grow too heavy for you to carry them comfortably before then.

It's important to make sure that all strap supports are secure before putting your baby into a carrier. Front strap-on models with leg openings big enough for a child to slip through have been recalled. Some models now come with a seat insert for newborns to guard against that. Other models have straps, drawstrings, or other ways to narrow the openings so they fit snugly around the legs. In any event, adjust leg openings to the smallest size that's comfortable for your child.

Hip carriers, unless they have a headrest, are generally designed for babies who can hold their head up unassisted, weigh at least 15 pounds, or are at least 4 to 5 months old. The upper weight limit tends to be higher than front strap-on carriers' (35 to 40 pounds) depending on the brand, but to avoid back and neck strain, you should probably stop using one before then. Also, some hip carriers have been subject to recalls because the shoulder strap could detach from the hammock, causing a baby to fall.

The downside to using a soft carrier is that some infants just don't like being "worn" in the upright position (and if they get upset, they're literally "in your face" about it). Some dislike any carrier that feels too confining around the head, which is necessary in the beginning months with front strap-on models and hip carriers with attachable head supports. Also, if your baby falls asleep in a front strap-on carrier, you can feel stuck. Because your baby must exit from the top of the carrier, it can be tough to get her out without waking her. To address this problem some carriers, for example the BabyBjörn Miracle, let you unclip both sides of the front flap so you can lay the baby down without disturbing her. In another variation, the Okkatots Baby Carrier System ($90) lets you unclip the entire "pouch" from the harness.

Over the last 20 years, there have been at least 14 deaths associated with sling-type carriers, and dozens of injuries, including skull fractures, head injuries, and contusions and abrasions. Most occurred when a child fell out of a sling. Recalls of sling carriers in recent years have prompted ASTM International, an organization that sets voluntary standards, to develop one for sling carriers. The standard went into effect in February 2012 but has few test requirements and, in our opinion, fails to address the hazards of improper use.

Concerns raised by manufacturers, who requested a review that resulted in the ASTM standard, included not only fractures and bruises but also the risk of smothering. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has documented a risk of death from "positional asphyxia" or suffocation, particularly in infants younger than 4 months. Two positions can cause airway blockage and suffocation: When an infant bends his head forward and his chin touches his upper chest, forming a C-shape with his body; and when an infant is completely contained in a carrier with his head turned so that his face is pressed against the caregiver's body. Consumer Reports does not recommend the use of slings due to the large number of recalls of these products, some associated with death or serious injuries and the lack of adequate safety standards. Soft front carriers and backpack carriers are covered by safety standards that we think are adequate, making them safer to consider.

In March 2010, one million Infantino SlingRider and Wendy Bellissimo slings were recalled due to a risk of suffocation (at least three deaths were reported). About 1,200 Ellaroo Ring Sling baby carriers, sold from June 2007 through February 2008, were recalled in 2008 because the aluminum rings on them could bend or break, allowing the fabric to slip through the rings and cause a baby to fall. In 2007, about 100,000 Infantino SlingRider baby carriers, sold from July 2006 through February 2007, were recalled because of a similar malfunction in a plastic slider. Don't buy or accept as a gift any secondhand carrier or sling because defective ones could still be in circulation.

Some slings can be simple to put on and wear. Others resemble a fabric version of origami, which leads us to believe that some of the incidents with sling carriers are due to improper wearing or assembly, or a failure of the rings or other hardware. It's uncertain how an ASTM International standard can help to make these products safer or error-proof. For now, we think there are better ways to transport infants including strollers, handheld baby carrier and car seats, and strap-on carriers.

Consumer Reports has not tested or rated current models of any type of carrier. Brands and models are mentioned here as examples only.

There are parents who like soft baby carriers and there are those who mostly leave their carriers hanging on a hook in the closet. Because it's impossible to predict how you or your baby will react to one, it doesn't pay to register for a soft baby carrier or buy it ahead of time. Wait to buy until your baby is born. Ideally, you'll be able to get a little practice with a friend's carrier first. For the safety reasons we mentioned, we recommend a front or hip carrier over a sling, especially for the youngest infants who will typically be carried lying down. If you decide to buy a sling anyway, follow our safety strategies.

If you decide to buy a front or hip carrier and your baby is amenable, look for a comfortable, machine-washable one that can be fitted to your torso, with sturdy, adjustable straps that secure your baby snugly. It should also distributes your child's weight evenly and support her head. Check the carrier periodically for sharp edges, ripped seams, and missing, loose, or defective snaps, buckles, or rings.

With any type of carrier, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to make sure you use it properly, and be sure to send in the registration card so you can be notified in the event of a recall. Think about how much you'll use it before you buy one. That will help you determine what to spend. A low-priced version may be fine if you plan to use the front or hip carrier or sling only occasionally. If you foresee long jaunts with your baby or expect to be using your carrier a lot around the house, consider a higher-end model, which may give you more support and be more comfortable. Don't use a soft baby carrier for activity more rigorous than leisurely walking. If you want to pick up the pace, a jogging stroller is your best bet.

The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) has certified the following brands of soft baby carriers: BabySwede (BabyBjörn), Boba, Britax Child Safety, Chicco, Dorel Juvenile Group/Safety 1st, Graco's Children Products, Kolcraft Enterprises, Maclaren N.A., Okkatots, OnBoard Outfitters, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Regent Baby Products Corporation/Baby King, Scandinavian Child, and The Ergo Baby Carrier.

Certified soft baby carriers are deemed by JPMA to comply with voluntary guidelines set by ASTM International. Included in the guidelines are rules for leg openings to minimize the risk of babies falling through them. Certified carriers must also pass dynamic and static load tests to verify the limits on the amount of weight the carrier can safely support. They also carry warning statements (included in the instruction booklet, too) stating, for example, that small children can fall through a leg opening and that the product should be used only if your baby's weight is in a specific range, such as 8 to 26 pounds. We believe JPMA certification offers some assurance that a soft carrier is safe, but certification is not required by law and is not supervised by any government agency.

Slings are now covered by ASTM standards, although we do not think they adequately addresses all the hazards.

This type of carrier holds a baby in an upright position. An infant faces in and an older baby faces out or in. The carrier consists of a padded fabric pouch with leg holes that's attached to an adult shoulder and waist belt, which supports the baby.

The BabyBjörn Miracle Baby Carrier (pictured, about $150) can be used with an infant up to 15 months. It's adjustable from the front so you can transfer the baby's weight between your waist, hips and shoulders. It can be used with a baby 8 to 26 pounds, with the child facing in or out.

These are like a cross between a sling and strap-on carrier because they have adjustable straps and they're designed to be worn on your hip. With a hip carrier, your baby faces you just like you'd naturally carry her, but it's easier because your arms don't carry the weight. The Scootababy Baby Carrier (pictured, about $120) lets you wear the baby on your hip or your back (to one side).

Some front baby carriers can be worn on the hip as well. The Lillebaby EveryWear Style (about $100), for example, lets you use it six different ways, including as a front carrier and a hip carrier. You can use it with children from newborns to toddlers.

When you're wearing your baby in a front strap-on or hip carrier, you'll fit better in cramped elevators and other places where strollers can't easily go. And in some cases, it can also be safer. In supermarkets, for example, wearing your baby in a strap-on or hip carrier while pushing a cart is preferable to placing a car-seat carrier on top of the cart, which we don't recommend. And because strap-on and hip carriers offer supportive infrastructure and your baby sits upright, we think they're safer than slings.

We recommend against this option due to safety concerns (see Getting started). Slings consist of a length of fabric that you wear over one shoulder and around your waist. A sling forms a comfy, portable nest for an infant, but babies should not be completely enclosed because of the possibility of suffocation. In the beginning you'll wear your baby in front. As your baby gets bigger and can hold her head up--at about the 6-month mark--you can shift your baby in the sling to your hip.

Strap-on carriers and hip carriers are typically made of 100-percent cotton, a cotton/spandex blend, nylon, or moisture-resistant polyester microfiber. Some come in fashionable colors and patterns. With slings and strap-ons, it's nice to be able to throw the whole thing in a washing machine. Some slings are available in a range of fabrics and patterns, including silks. BabyBjörn makes its original carrier (pictured) available in bold retro colors, as well as their Original Baby Spirit style, available in six colors, including "Pink Passion" and "Green Energy." The Ergo carrier is available in fashionable styles done by the brand Petunia Pickle Bottom (about $160). Some carriers, such as the Ergo brand, are also available in organic cotton.

Carriers have a variety of buckles and fasteners for shoulder and waist straps and the seats. Whatever type of fastener your carrier has, it should be sturdy and require a lot of force to undo. Buckles that hold shoulder and waist straps should be easy to adjust and keep straps firmly fastened when the carrier is in use. Buckles and fasteners should be easy for an adult to use, but not so easy that a baby could undo them, and they should fasten tightly, but not in a way that could pinch your fingers.

Well-made carriers may have a padded waist strap that helps to distribute your baby's weight from your shoulders to your hips and pelvic area. This is a definite comfort advantage. When you're shopping, try on a floor model and fasten the belt/waist strap to see if it's long enough and neither too high nor too low. Padding should be firm, not mushy. The Infantino Balance Ergonomic Carrier (shown, about $45) has adjustable lumbar support as well as an adjustable chest/back strap.

Shoulder-strap padding should be firm and wide so the straps won't dig in. Straps should be positioned so they won't slip off your shoulders or chafe your neck, and they should be adjustable while you're carrying your baby. The Maclaren Techno Baby Carrier has a centered shoulder and back harness. It can be used with a baby 8 to 25 pounds. (It also comes with a removable bottle holder, a shade blanket, and a bib for teething babies.) The manufacturer of the Jeep 2 in 1 Sport Baby Carrier (shown, about $28) says it has extra-wide padded shoulder straps that you can adjust while you've got it on.

Babies can sweat in a carrier. To help keep them cool, some carriers have a panel of mesh-like material to promote airflow, or side insets that can be unzipped or unbuttoned to serve the same purpose. The BabyBjorn Air (pictured, about $100) for example, is made with breathable mesh. The Evenflo Snugli Comfort Vent Carrier has side-entry buckles that can be opened with one hand and "comfort vents" (about $50).

As we mentioned, many front strap-on models have buckles on each side that release a front flap. This makes it easier to get your baby in and out. With the Okkatots Baby Carrier System (pictured), you put your baby in a pouch and then attach the pouch to the carrier. This is handy not only for putting down a sleeping baby but when using a shopping cart once your baby can sit up by herself.

The líllébaby EveryWear Sport carrier comes with a removable neck support for newborns and younger babies, as well as a removable hood to block sun or wind. In many models, such as with the BabyBjorn and Infantino carriers, you wear your infant facing you, and when the child is older the part of the carrier that supports the head is flipped down and then the baby can face out. The Chicco You & Me Delux Infant Carrier (pictured, about $50) works like that. It also features ventilated lumbar support for parents and padded shoulder straps.

Some carriers come with a pocket for holding keys or cell phone, or maybe even a spare diaper. You can also get a variety of covers to keep out the sun, and you can get blanket covers, like miniature sleeping bags, that fit over the front of the carrier for wintertime wearing. The Jolly Jumper Snuggle Cover for Soft Baby Carriers (pictured, $33), for example, fits over the outside of a carrier.

If you're not sure, wait until after your baby is born before you buy one. Better yet, borrow one first. Try on a friend's carrier to see whether it is comfortable for you and how your baby takes to it. If she constantly wants to be held, a soft carrier may be just the ticket for relieving your aching arms. Also consider how much walking (or even hiking) you might do with your baby. As we've said, carriers are generally for babies under 20 pounds, while a backpack carrier [link: http://consumerreports.org/cro/backpack-carriers/buying-guide.htm] (for babies who can sit up independently, usually around at least 6 months old) can be handy for day hikes and frequent outings once your child is older.

Because strap-on carriers and slings have been subject to recalls, buying a new one makes it a little more likely it will be safer. To play it even safer, check any carrier you're considering on the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website at www.cpsc.gov or sign up for free e-mail notices of future recalls at www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. And always send in the registration card for the soft baby carrier you select (and any product you buy) so you will be alerted directly about recalls by the manufacturer.

Take another adult along to help, especially if you're not familiar with soft baby carriers. We've discovered in previous testing that not all carriers and slings fit all builds. Doing a test run in the store will give you a quick take on sizing and the features each carrier or sling offers.

This is an option when your baby can sit up unassisted and has full head and neck control (at about 6 months old, the earliest). These carriers are basically backpacks with a fabric baby seat and structured frame. Usual upper weight limits are about 40 pounds--which would accommodate a typical 3-year-old--plus assorted gear. See our backpack carrier buying guide.

Some babies need time to adjust to a baby carrier; others never come around. So keep your receipt and the packaging the carrier came in just in case you have to return it.

Make adjustments before putting your baby in the carrier or sling. Mastering the rings and folds (with slings and wraps) so everything fits correctly takes time, even with clear instructions. But getting it right and frequently checking the hardware (without your baby in it) is critical to keeping your baby safe. This is one reason we don't recommend using slings. If your back or neck hurts from carrying most of your baby's weight on one side (with a hip carrier, for instance), give that shoulder a break.

You have to get your baby inside the carrier without a fuss, then learn to trust the carrier and get used to the initially uneasy feeling of having your baby suspended in front of you. Our advice is to read the directions carefully, then practice. Some manufacturers recommend that you rehearse with a teddy bear or doll until all steps become natural. That's not a bad idea.

Get used to wearing it inside your home, moving from room to room before venturing outside. Make sure you're wearing the carrier as comfortably as possible.

"One of my pet peeves with the front-pack carriers is that people wear them too low on the body," says Jill Boissonnault, P.T., Ph.D., W.C.S., a spokeswomen for the American Physical Therapy Association. "It pulls their back more into a sway back. Being pulled forward like that is worse than being nine months pregnant. You need to wear the baby up, higher on the chest, not lower on the waist." Boissonnault says it's also important to take breaks. "No matter what carrier you use, you shouldn't use it all day. Your back needs a break."

Learning how to move with a baby carrier can take practice. You can't lean over too much, and your back, shoulders, and legs have to adjust to the added weight. You'll also have to be mindful of your extra dimensions when going through doorways and around corners so your baby won't bump into anything. With front carriers, tripping--even over something minor like a crack in the sidewalk--could be a major issue since you can't see your feet. (On the other hand, your hands are free to balance yourself, which wouldn't be the case if you stumbled while carrying your baby in your arms.)

Although many carriers are designed to adjust and "grow" with your baby, some parents complain of lower back pain once their baby reaches about 20 pounds. A simple rule is to stop using any type of soft baby carrier when you sense you're approaching your own physical limits. Boissonnault recommends switching to a backpack carrier when children are older and have head control.

Do:

• Recruit someone to help you when trying a carrier or sling for the first time, or practice in front of a mirror. You can also try practicing with a doll or stuffed animal.
• Try putting your baby in for the first time when you're both fed and well rested. Sit down to do it, and don't stand until you feel that your baby is secure.
• Avoid carrying your baby lying down or completely contained in a carrier because his chin can press against his chest, blocking his airway. His face should be free, not pressed against your body. To reduce the risks, why not wait a few months until your baby can hold his head up and be carried in an upright position? The front (tummy to tummy) or hip carrying positions are safer than laying an infant lengthwise in a sling.
• Squat instead of bending over to reach for something when your baby is in a sling so she doesn't fall out.
• If wearing a hip carrier or sling hurts your back, try shifting your baby to your other hip (or side) or stop wearing it and use a stroller instead.

Don't:

• We don't recommend using slings at all but if you do, wait until your baby is at least 4 months old to reduce the risk of suffocation.
• Don't wing it. Read the instructions (most sling manufacturers have detailed how-to instructions on their websites). And watch the video demonstration, too, if it's available, so you have a clear understanding of the product and how to wear it before transporting your precious cargo.
• Don't wear your baby in a sling in a moving vehicle. She should be in a safe car seat anytime he's in a car.
• Don't carry your baby while cooking or near open flames. The fabric may not be flame resistant, plus your baby could burn or hurt herself by reaching for something sharp or hot, and any splashes or splatters would probably hit her first.