Babies love to be held. Parents love to hold their babies. Physical closeness helps psychological and physical development in infants, and we’ll be so bold as to say it can help parents feel pretty amazing inside, too. So it would follow that baby carriers, wraps, and slings are a win-win in the world of baby gear. We sure think so.
At their core, baby carriers/wraps/slings help parents move around with their baby hands free. They are perfect for taking your baby to the renaissance fair or pumpkin farm, where you’ll want your hands free to carry turkey legs and pumpkins to carve. But they’re really helpful around the house, too. Wearing your baby as you clean, paint, or even play piano is a delightful experience.
Carriers/wraps/slings are tremendously safe when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Safety is huge with us here at Albee Baby, and while incorrect use can cause injury or suffocation, this is easily prevented by following the instructions included with your baby carrier. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends waiting until babies are around four months old before using a carrier, wrap, or sling. Before you use a carrier, make sure that your baby’s neck muscles are strong enough for extended periods in a carrier. If you aren’t sure, you can discuss this at your baby’s 4-month checkup.
Choosing a baby carrier, sling, or wrap should depend on how you will use it. For outdoor activities, like the aforementioned pumpkin farm, a durable baby carrier that leaves your hands free is ideal. This way, you can skip the stroller and navigate the haunted “boo barn” successfully. For indoor use, a wrap or sling may be more comfortable for all-afternoon use, and the wrap provides a swaddle-like feel for your baby. While a sling or wrap offers slightly less mobility for your arms, it’s perfect for cozy, at-home activities.
Of course you’ll consider the carrier’s/wrap’s/sling’s comfort for your baby, but consider your comfort when shopping for a carrier, too. If you plan on using it for long periods, ensure it supports your back and has additional padding for your shoulders. Think of a carrier for tasks (like painting a picture or gardening) while holding your baby, and a wrap or sling for leisurely walks at a beach resort while wearing your baby. We offer a wide variety of styles and patterns from our favorite brands and we’re sure that you find the perfect carrier or wrap that is simply perfect for you and your baby.