Best Baby Carriers of 2020

Carriers are by far the baby product Babylist parents say they love the most.

No matter how cozy a swing or bouncy seat is, babies like being cradled in your arms best. But toting your little one around all day isn’t really feasible unless you have arms of steel and an army of helpers to do your daily tasks. That’s where a baby carrier comes in handy.

Do You Need a Carrier?

Getting a carrier isn’t a necessity—you could use a stroller when you’re out and about and a bouncy seat or swing at home. But a carrier is the only gadget that lets you do your own thing, hands-free, while your little one relaxes against you.

Many parents say it’s their favorite baby product, no matter the type or brand. It gives your arms a break and can easily sub in for a stroller, especially if your child gets upset when they can’t see you, or you need to navigate crowded spaces like airports and stadiums. It’s also great to use if you like hiking and want to bring your child along.

Some parents only use a baby carrier when their child is small—newborn through six months or so. Other parents continue to use a carrier well into the toddler stage. You’ll get the most out of it before your little one learns to walk and wants to roam free.

What are the Types of Carriers?

Most parents swear that baby carriers are a lifesaver, so you really can’t go wrong adding one to your registry. Baby carriers come in three styles:

Wraps: A super-long piece of stretchy fabric you configure and tie around your body, usually over your shoulders and around your mid-section, to create a carrier.

Slings: A wide piece of fabric that goes over one shoulder and across your torso.

Structured Carriers: More like a backpack with straps over the shoulder and a padded carrying “pack” that can be placed on your chest or back. Also called Soft Structured Carriers, or SSCs.

Choosing one depends on what you think will work best for your family. To start, take a look at these carriers that got the highest props from USA BABY advisors.