Which Type of Baby Carrier is Right for Your Baby? Here's How to Know

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For a new mother, times would come when you have to take your baby out - to the hospital, to shop for groceries etc. And, at such times, you want a way to carry your baby around with ease, in a way that would leave you hands-free. Traditionally, Nigerian mothers and caregivers carry babies on the back, using a wrapper and the traditional wrap cloth (called 'Oja' in some Nigerian languages). Besides that, there are other different ways and gadgets to carry a baby around -such as in a car seat, in a stroller, or you can carry your little one in a baby carrier, either the modern or old fashion method. Read on.

The Types of Baby Carriers

There are three types of baby carriers in the market - in Nigeria and everywhere in the World:

#1. Baby Wrap: Wrap-style baby carriers are wide piece of fabric usually worn around your body and over both shoulders. They are versatile and most can be worn in many different ways, and they are somewhat compact.

#2. Baby Slings: A sling is a wide swath of fabric worn across and over one shoulder. They come padded, unpadded, and with or without rings for adjustment. 

#3. Front carrier: A front carrier consists of two shoulder straps  that allows you to carry your baby in front close to your chest, though some front carriers can be used on the back when your baby becomes heavier.  

Choose the Right Baby Carrier Type At-a-Glance

To help you make a quick decision about which type of baby carrier is right for you and your baby, we made you an at-a-glance decision table. See it below:

	Front Carrier	Baby Wrap	Baby Slings
Disadvantages	#1. Some carriers don’t blend comfortably to your body if you choose to breastfeed while carrying your baby. #2. Front carrier may be too thick and bulky for your newborn.	#1. Wraps are not easy to wear; most people see it as a waste of time, in that it is confusing to wear and to take off.	#1. All that fabric means that slings can be cumbersome, particularly for petite women. And the one-shoulder without padding support can quickly become uncomfortable, especially once your child weighs more than 10 to 15 pounds. #2. Not suitable for use with newborns - can cause suffocation, hip dysplasia and posture issues in newborn babies they are used to carry. For more information about this, Consumer Product Safety Commission
Advantages	Front carriers that are worn on the back is more exciting for babies and a lot more comfortable for parents when their baby becomes heavier.	Wraps makes it simple for a mother who wish to breastfeed her baby while wearing him.	Slings are good for breastfeeding because of the loose fit. It enables you to breastfeed your baby without anyone noticing.
SUITABLE FOR:	For both younger and older babies from 0 and older Babies 4 months and above.	Suitable for younger babies because of its flexibility.	Suitable for older babies from 4 months + when babies have stronger neck muscles, can control their necks, and are old enough for a hip-carry position in the sling.

Below is the African/Nigerian Method of carrying a Baby with Both Hands Free

Mercy Johnson Strapping Baby Purity on the Back the African Way

Advantages of Baby Carriers 

Baby carrier supports bonding between a baby and the parents

Colicky in babies are managed with the use of a baby carrier 

Hands free - While your baby is relaxed and enjoying your company, you are busy doing your usual house daily tasks.

You can easily move around with your baby in a crowded environment.

Safety Tips:

In 2010, the agency issued tips for safe babywearing, which include:

If your baby is younger than 4 months old, was born prematurely or at low birth weight, or has a cold or respiratory problem, consult your child's doctor before using a sling.

While wearing your baby in a sling or wrap, check on her often. Make sure she's not in a curled, chin-to-chest position and that her face isn't pressed up against the fabric or you. Both of these positions can lead to suffocation, which can happen within minutes.
In 2014 a baby died on christmas eve in mother's sling.

Make sure you can see your baby's face or eyes in the sling and that your baby can see you. Unless you're nursing her, your baby's face should be visible (at or above the rim of your sling or wrap).

If you nurse your baby while wearing her, make sure that afterward you reposition her so her face is visible and at or above the rim of the sling or wrap. Her face should be away from the fabric and your body.

Related: How to Choose the Right Baby Carrier to Buy

Conclusion: Deciding on the Right-Fit Baby Carrier

So, that's it from me on how to know which type of baby carrier to buy. I hope that this article has helped you come to a decision. Thanks for reading, and if you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends - Facebook it/ tweet it/ email it to someone. 

Now, it's time to hear from you. Tell me in the comments below - which type of baby carrier will you be getting for your baby?