Hands-Free, Heart-Full: Why Baby-wearing Belongs in Every Mama’s Registry

For 9 months, you carry your baby all to yourself. You wonder what he/she will look like, smile at the fact that they learn your voice (even your dog barking) all inside the womb. When it’s time for them to join the world, they aren’t even aware in those first few months that they are separate from you. 

Baby-wearing in the ‘fourth trimester’ is a special bonding experience for both the mama and the baby. They get to stay close to your smell and voice, while you get to be hands free to make a coffee or help put a diaper on your wild toddler (yes, it is a sport). However, just like so many parts of motherhood - it’s extremely overwhelming to know what baby carriers to get, how many you should have, when to start using them, etc. 

There are many different types of baby carriers and it’s all dependent on your lifestyle and how you will wear your baby. I’ve categorized a few below so while shopping for brands, just keep in mind there are SO many options and price points. The three I have are Solly Baby (Soft), Wildbird (Hybrid) and Baby Bjorn Mesh Carrier (Performance). 

Soft (wrap): a loose, stretchy fabric. Meant for the baby to be facing you. You need to watch a lot of tutorials to figure out how to use it. Best for around the house, light walks, and in the newborn phase.

Hybrid (wrap + carrier): a sturdier fabric like linen with cushioning. Options for the baby to be facing you, forwards and on the back. Best for running errands, walks, social outings. 

Performance (structured carrier): a mesh-like fabric. Strong support for shoulder, waist & back. Best for outdoor activities, parks, long walks. 

From a personal experience, I had a wrap & performance carrier for my first baby but always felt like I was missing one. So I added a hybrid one to my closet for the second and felt totally equipped this time! There are just so many opportunities to wear your baby. It’s also great to have multiple so one can be fit more for your husband to wear as well. You don’t have to worry about bringing a bulky stroller with you, then there’s the added benefits for milk supply, and it’s natural ability to get the baby to sleep/nap on you while being hands free.

Here’s to a chic mama essential - whether it’s for you or gifting to a friend or family member, I hope this helps your decision making! Happy baby-wearing :)