you asked: What Are The Different Types Of Baby Carriers?
A baby carrier is an essential item when you have a baby! It helps you do things hands-free while still being able to snuggle your baby in your day to day life. We put together this list to help you find the best baby carrier for petite moms.
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Best Carriers For Petite Moms
Carriers are an essential piece of baby gear, and there is not a one size fits all solution when you’re shopping around.
Today, moms are busy.
Juggling multiple kids and busy schedules, we need all the help we can get. A carrier becomes a vital piece of equipment for all the busy moms of the world.
Sure, you could use a stroller, but sometimes it’s easier to do some grocery shopping with a cart rather than a stroller basket.
When shopping for a carrier, you are going to want to look for something that’s comfortable, functional for your needs, and something that fits even a petite mom.
Most carriers these days are adjustable, but if you can find carriers that are made specifically for petite moms, you will have a much easier time picking the right carrier for you.
The Best Baby Carrier For Petite Moms
Boba Wrap Carrier
The Boba Wrap Carrier is made from a French Terry cloth material that stretches to support the baby and provides you comfort.
The wrap is 15 feet long, and you can wrap any excess fabric around your belly for extra support.
You can use this wrap to cover up while nursing in public places, and with a little practice, you can nurse while the baby is wrapped up nice and tight, and no one will be the wiser.
This carrier comes in 14 colors and designs so that you can have a little fun with this piece of baby gear.
This wrap is a popular choice among parents for carrying and soothing babies in. The material is breathable and can be used with newborn. This wrap can also be used kids up to 35 pounds, which could be up to 1.5 year old.
This wrap does not come in different sizes but it is adjustable because you control how you wrap it up.
when washed, this wrap does not get loose and lose quality.
This wrap is perfect for soothing colic babies and provides a safe and comfortable space for your little one to take a snooze.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One size fits all | It Will take time to get used to the wrapping |
| Soft and stretchy | Can be time-consuming to take on and off |
| Machine washable | Hot to wear on hot days |
| Can use as a nursing cover | Petite moms may have to wrap extra due to extra fabric |
| Spandex materials keep the shape |
The Boba Wrap Carrier is a good option for petite moms because it is flexible in the way it fits and extra fabric can be wrapped around the body until it’s not an issue anymore. While it can be warm on a hot day, it is a great option if you live in a cooler climate, and if you want to share your carrier with a partner or caregiver.
Baby Gemini Ergonomic Carrier
The Gemini structured carrier is an adjustable product that is suitable for petite moms.
The adjustability runs from the waist size to the shoulder straps, which are crisscrossed in the back to help with evenly distributing weight.
The waist strap can be tightened to as little as 26 inches.
This carrier allows you to position your baby in four different ways, including two front carry and two back carry options.
There is a built-in headrest for baby and a little storage pocket for you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Straps For Smaller Bodies | Sometimes the back carry feature can be uncomfortable if not properly buckled |
| 4 carrying positions | Extra safety clips can make it more difficult to remove the carrier |
| Machine Washable | |
| Built-in headrest | |
| Can crisscross the straps | |
| lots of padding on the baby leg area | |
| Waist and belt extenders can be purchased | |
| Lots of fun designs |
The Beco Gemini Baby carrier is a good option for a structured carrier that petite moms like. The criss-cross strap option is unique in a structured carrier and it helps with weight distribution and lumbar support. Not to mention is comes in fun colors!
Baby K’tan Wrap Carrier
For the petite mom who loves the look of a wrap but finds wrapping intimidating, the Baby K’tan Wrap Carrier is a great option.
It is designed to distribute weight evenly across the back and shoulders so you can carry your baby in the wrap all day.
There are a lot of sizes to choose from, and many of them are friendly for petite moms. The size chart on Amazon can help you pick the right size for you.
You don’t need to fight with any rings or other hardware, and no need to figure out how to wrap your baby with knots with this simple and easy to use a wrap.
The Best thing: A baby wrap carrier without all the confusion of learning to wrap.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lots of sizing options | Fabric can be stiff |
| No confusing wrapping required | Sizing can be tough for two parents to use |
| Washer and dryer friendly | Not adjustable |
| Soft and cozy fabric | |
| Great price point | |
| Patented double-loop design for security | |
| Buckle-free and keeps the airflow going | |
| Can wear baby 5 different ways | |
| Can fit Newborn to 35 lbs |
This is a great carrier if you love the wrap style carriers but don’t love the idea of learning to wrap your baby. Just be sure to get the right size!
You+Me 4-in-1 Ergonomic Baby Carrier
Parents love the You+Me 4-in-1 Ergonomic Baby Carrier for newborn babies and toddlers.
In fact, this is a great carrier to add to your baby registry because your baby might just be 8lbs when they are born, or shortly after.
This carrier can be worn in 4 different ways and is a perfect for for petite moms because the seat, shoulder straps and waist belt can be adjusted. This carrier also comes with a bonus baby bandana bib that babies love.
This carrier also provides excellent airflow so you can beat the heat with your baby when you’re out for a stroll on a sunny day.
Some parents have mentioned that taller babies may have less neck and head support than shorter babies. Once the baby has excellent head control – around 4 months, that shouldn’t be much of a concern.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 4 Carrying positions | It May not be the best for longer babies |
| Built-in headrest | |
| Breathable mesh lining | |
| Lightweight | |
| Bonus bib included |
This carrier is easy to transfer between different adults who need to babywear, which is our favourite thing about this carrier.
Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling
Another great contender in the list of best baby carrier for petite moms is the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling. This sling is made from linen and bamboo fabric and has great strength and low flammability.
This sling has unwelded rings and an ergonomic design which helps distribute weight evenly and takes pressure off the back and shoulders when babywearing.
This sling helps keep baby in the M position which is helpful for development of hips.
This design provides a safe position for physical growth.
This is an affordable carrier with a lifetime guarantee.
This is a good carrier for petite moms because the rings can help adjust the size of the sling. Even dads can wear this ring sling.
The fabric is soft for babies and cozy for moms too as is is made from soft bamboo.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Sometimes needs constant tightening |
| Affordable | Lots of fabric leftover |
| Comes in many colors | |
| Made with Bamboo | |
| Promotes natural womb-like position | |
| 5% of profits go to charity | |
| Adjustable and fits all body sizes |
Tula Ergonomic Carrier
The Tula Ergonomic Carrier is designed to grow with your baby and is one of the best baby carriers for petite moms. It features adjustable straps with 2 different height settings so you can keep baby close enough to kiss and have the carrier nice and snug.
This carrier can be used as a front facing carrier and a back carrier as well. The front carry position is better for petite moms who need to hold their babies for long periods of time.
The shoulder straps are well padded which helps take pressure away from the shoulders. The waistband is also adjustable so you can make it as tight as you need to to keep the baby secure.
This carrier is handmade and lightweight, and overall a very reliable ergonomic carrier which is great for petite moms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable height and weight straps | Infants require more head support |
| Front pocket for items | More expensive |
| Removable hood | more difficult to adjust while in use |
| Lightweight and breathable | Not great for moms under 5ft tall |
| Easy to use | |
| 6 different carrying positions | |
| Neck support pillow | |
| Adjustable waist |
The Baby Tula Baby Carrier is high quality and comfortable and a really good choice for a functional baby carrier for petite moms. You will be spending more on it, but sometimes quality and comfort are worth the price.
LÍLLÉbaby Ergonomic Carrier
The LÍLLÉbaby Ergonomic Carrier is perfect for petite moms because it is adjustable and comfortable with customizable straps and waistband.
LILLEbaby is made from soft, safe fabric that offers 6 carrying positions throughout your baby’s lifetime.
The lumbar support is strong with this carrier and can help you carry the baby up to 45 pounds. You can use the X and the H style carries.
The six ergonomic carrying positions means you can carry your baby in front, back, outward facing, inward facing, fetal, and hip position. It also features with adjustable seat and leg openings for proper hip support, curved C-spine position, and frog-leg seating.
This carrier comes with a hood to shield your baby on a sunny day!.
Overall the carrier adjusts easily, so easy in fact, that you can breastfeed right in the carrier with a small adjustment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lumbar support | The back buckle may be hard to do up alone |
| 6 carrying positions | Some moms find it to be bulky |
| 3D Mesh regulates temperature | Higher price point |
| Elastic safety loops for buckles | |
| Sleeping hood | |
| Seat portion Adjustable (narrow or wide) | |
| Dual adjustable straps |
A baby carrier that has 6 carrying positions is definitely a good baby carrier in our opinion. While some moms have complained about their baby legs being pinched in the leg holes, the complains are far and few between and could very well be user error. If your little one does have chubby legs, maybe this carrier is not the best fit, just in case.
SUNVENO Baby Hipseat Ergonomic Baby Carrier
The SUNVENO Baby Hipseat Ergonomic Baby Carrier is designed for babies ages 6-36 months and can be used in 4 different positions.
Use it as a baby hip seat carrier from 4 months to 36 months which allows you to go hands free or just as a hip seat with the baby strapped in starting at 4 months a swell.
The patented design protects baby’s hips and helps parents with labar support.
It is also super easy to take on and off so your attention stays on your little one and has four roomy pockets to store your belongings, such as wallet, phone, pacifier, etc.
The design is adjustable to fit petite and larger sized parents.
The carrier is made from breathable, plush fabric, plus a collapsible hood to protect baby from the elements!
Overall it is a Sturdy, reliable carrier that offers a ton of comfort, and it comes in a few different colors too.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ergonomically designed | There is only 1 way to hold the baby hands free |
| Stool carrying positions | Cannot use carrier with a newborn |
| Waterproof | |
| Mesh front pocket | |
| Hood for weather protection | |
| Four pockets for storing belongings | |
| 90-day warranty | |
| X-Cross shoulder strap | |
| Suitable for carrying 6-36 months old baby |
The SunVeno Baby Hipseat helps parents take the weight off their arms while carrying your little one.
Ergobaby Multi-Position Baby Carrier
A classic, easy to use baby carrier which fits petite moms well is the Ergobaby Multi-Position Baby Carrier.
This carrier is designed with buckles under the arms which make it easy to take this carrier on and off, without the help of a second paerson.
Thsi carrier is not designed for the newborn stage, but is perfect for a baby who is 12lbs all the way up to 45lbs.
If you need to carry around a larger child who is under the 45lb weight limit, this is a great option.
Baby can be worn 3 different ways in this carrier.
Parents enjoy the wide waistband on this carrier and the lumbar support that it was deisnged with.
The leg holes are large and comfortable for the baby, so go ahead and use it even if your little one has adorable chubby legs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable waistband and shoulder straps | Infant booster not included |
| Zippered pocket | |
| UPF 50+ babyhood | |
| Buckles underarm to make putting on/off easier | |
| Comfortable for you & your baby | |
| Carry on the front, back, or hip | |
| Easily adjust to your growing baby | |
| Fits you & your partner | |
| Easy to clean quality materials |
The Ergo baby carrier is easy to buckle and unbuckle on your own which makes this a well-designed carrier, however, it is not made for newborns.
Purchasing Guidelines For The Best Baby Carrier For Petite Moms
Before you make your baby carrier purchase, there are some things you should take into considerations for your buying criteria.
Length of fabric: For structured carriers, you do not need to worry about extra fabric, With wrap style carriers and slings, there may be extra fabric leftover after you wrap yourself. Excess fabric can be tucked away or wrapped up further to avoid hanging on the ground.
Fabric Type: The type of fabric your carrier is made from will either keep your baby warm in a cool climate or extra hot in a warm climate. Wherever you are in the world, try to find a material that will work best for your environment. Up in Canada for example, the Boba Wrap Carrier is thick and toasty and it works well for walking on a cold day. If you are in Hawaii, perhaps something that is thinner with less fabric will be a better fit such as the Baby K’tan Wrap Carrier or the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling.
Straps: Structured carriers will have adjustable straps where as wrap carriers will not have any straps or buckles to adjust and tighten with. You may want to look into what you are more comfortable with before making a purchase.
Pockets: If you are looking for a carrier with pockets, the Tula Ergonomic Carrier is a structured carrier that has a pocket for your wallet and keys for extra light travelling.
Leg Holes: Many structured carriers are designed with comfort in mind. If you are purchasing a carrier that is not on the list above, then take a look at the leg hole openings and ensure they are nicely padded to avoid little legs from getting rubbed and irritated while babywearing. Ring slings and baby wraps do not have that feature, and can’t really hurt your baby legs at all.
Positions: If you are thinking of carrying your baby for a long time and need a few different positions than the traditional baby to chest option, then the LÍLLÉbaby Ergonomic Carrier which has 6 different carrying positions and the Tula Ergonomic Carrier are great options. If you are going to carry your baby just one or two ways, then a wrap or sling is perfect for you.
Shareability: If you are going to be sharing the baby carrier with dad, or another caregiver, then you may want to purchase something that is very adjustable so everyone can wear it comfortably. This is another area where wrap carriers win because anyone can use them. Our only advice is not to get a girly color such as purple if you are going to share it with your man, as he may not be willing to wear it.
Back Support: Baby wraps will provide proper back support if they are wrapped properly. Structured carriers with a wide waist bit and cross back straps will be more supportive on the back than other carriers.
Size Of Baby: Always look at the maximum weight recommendations on your baby carrier. Some carriers can be wok from newborn to toddler, or up to 35 lbs while others cap out at 20lbs. Check your label.
Different Types Of Baby Carriers
Ring Sling: Rings Slings are adjustable and comfortable, which make them a great option for smaller framed mommas. These carriers are user friendly and easy to use. They are a long piece of fabric with metal or plastic rings which are used to tighten to sling. Short moms also love these slings because they often do not have a lot of leftover fabric like other wrap carriers.
Structured Carriers: Structured carriers are very popular among parents as they use bucks and clips instead of requiring wrapping and tying knots. Petite moms can use buckle carriers with ease, while a more broad shoulder mom may have trouble as they have a limit on how big they can go around the waist.
Wraps: Wraps are long pieces of fabric that all moms of all body shapes can wear. They are super flexible to use. Some of the wrap carriers can be purchased shorter or longer, but most come in one standard size. They take a little bit of practice to get used to, but once you get it, they can be a lifesaver for moms.
Pouches: Like a ring sling, a pouch sling is great for petite moms, as long as they are fitted properly. They are very much like a ring sling but they don’t adjust as quickly and easily.
Features to Consider in a Baby Carrier for Petite Mom
Adjustable: When shopping for a carrier, it is essential to look for something that has adjustable straps, especially for petite moms. Not all carriers are created equal, and some carriers are just not suited for small frame parents. You’ll want adjustable straps for your growing baby too. When the baby gets bigger, you’ll need to adjust how tight the carrier is when it’s all done up.
Comfortable: Comfort is probably one of the most significant factors in choosing a baby carrier. Both for mom and baby. You’ll want to make sure the wight is light on the shoulders for your comfort and padded along the leg openings for the comfort of the baby. The baby should fit nice and snug in the carrier, and sit high enough for you to kiss the baby on the top of the head. Suitable carriers also contain a breathable mesh or a temperature regulation panel to ensure the baby does not overheat in hot summer months.
Ergonomic: The M-shape is vital for the proper spine and hip development. The best carrier will support the baby’s back, prevent the legs from dangling, and align the spine appropriately. Ergonomic carriers help distribute weight evenly, which allows parents to avoid neck pain and back strain.
Climate: Your environment should play a large role when selecting a baby carrier. If you live in a climate where the weather changes all the time, consider buying a carrier that is suitable for both hot and cold weather.
When Is It Safe To Use A Carrier?
The design of the baby carrier is to allow you to carry the baby on your back or on your chest.
However, there are some important things to consider when choosing if baby should go in the backpack style carry or a front cuddle up.
Baby’s age plays a huge factor in deciding which carrying style suits your needs at this time.
Newborn to 4 Months
The good news is, you can use a carrier with a newborn baby.
We recommend you use a wrap style or an M-style baby carrier when the baby is newborn to 4 months old.
Babies generally have weak hips and low neck control, and an ergonomic carrier can help support these developing parts.
4 Months – 12 Months
When your baby has more head control, around the four-month mark, you can carry him in different positions.
A 4-month-old may like to look around while being carried, and this is made possible by placing baby in the carrier on your chest but facing outwards.
You can start putting baby in the backpack position starting around seven months.
When babies have more options to look around at the world around them, they are stimulated in different ways, which helps with development.
Toddlers
Toddlers and parents alike will enjoy a back carry as this will be the most convenient for you both.
The baby is usually pretty heavy around 12 months old, and you’ll need all the help you can get to distribute the weight evenly on your shoulders.
Be sure to use proper positioning when placing the baby in the carrier.
It’ll take some practice, but having the baby positioned correctly in the carrier will help avoid neck, hip, and back complications.
How To Put On A Baby Carrier
Structured Carrier
Wrap Style
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Carriers
Wrapping Up: Best Baby Carrier For Petite Moms
With all things considered we like the Boba Wrap Carrier as the best baby carrier for petite moms as you can easily adjust it to fit any size and shape of body. We understand that mommy shapes change rapidly through pregnancy, after birth and a few years following birth. The Boba can also be used during pregnancy to help keep the belly up, so it really is a versatile piece of cloth.
Some petite moms may not enjoy the fact that there could be a lot of material leftover after the wrap is wrapped up, but you can easily keep wrapping around your waist until the material is tucked away.
The Boba wrap carrier is a pretty decent price as well for a baby carrier, so overall this carrier hits it out of the ballpark when it comes to choosing the best baby carrier for petite moms.
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(This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is really boring, but you can find it here)