The various types of baby carriers distribute weight differently, and one style may work better for you than another based on your personal preferences. Everyone’s body is different and the best thing to do is try the style on and see how it works with your body.
The different types of baby carriers also have a varying capabilities for how much weight they can safely carry. When a baby carrier is designed to distribute weight across several contact points on your body, it generally enables a baby wearer to carry heavier babies or toddlers with less effort and stress to the body.
Sling. The baby’s weight is evenly distributed over your back, waist and shoulders. Really, the only weight limits are those you set for yourself. It is not impossible to carry up to a 40 pound child in a sling.
Wrap. Depending on the way you tie a wrap, your baby’s weight can be distributed differently on the waist, hip, back and shoulders. This baby carrier style is a great option for people who may have a physical problem, and for pregnant moms who want to continue carrying their toddlers. Wraps are very comfortable because the width of fabric generally enables pressure to easily be evenly distributed, and there are no buckles, rings or other plastic or metal accessories that could get in the way.
Unstructured Soft Carrier. Also called Asian carriers, Mei Tai, Ombuhimo, Podegi. Asian carriers, like the styles made by Ergo are 2 shoulder carriers, with straps that come over your waist, back, torso and shoulders, distributing your baby’s weight quiet evenly. You’ll find this type of carrier is very suitable for the heavier baby and long outings.
Structured Carrier. Structured carriers are the easiest to find in western baby stores, and the majority have been inspired from the Mei Tai style of unstructured soft carriers. Structured carriers are made from firm fabrics, padding, plastic or metal buckles and clips. They maintain a rigid shape without being worn.
Structured Front Carrier. In a front carrier, like a Baby Bjorn, the weight is shifted forwards, and can put pressure on your shoulders and upper back. The usual weight limit is 22 pounds, and some people may find it begin to get challenging when the baby is extremely difficult to carry a baby that has reached the 18 – 20 pound mark.
Frame Backpack. The frame backpack is a type of structured carrier, and it’s design is largely inspired from hiking rucksacks. A metal frame provides stability, and helps put it on and off.
Getting hands on experience with a baby carrier style is the best way to determine if it’s going to work for you. Ask around at the next playgroup you’re at, or find a babywearing or Attachment Parenting group to join. If you haven’t yet heard of one of these groups in your area, a great resource for finding groups of like-minded parents, is to search on Meetup.com using those keywords.
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