Baby Carrier Backpack

Baby Buying Guide: Backpacks and Carriers

- Look for a carrier that is comfortable for both you and baby. Test drive the ones you're contemplating, rather than asking a friend for a recommendation. A carrier that fits your friend may not fit you.
- Carriers can be used until baby weighs about 45 pounds, though you may find that they feel too heavy and uncomfortable before baby reaches that weight. At that point, it's time to try a stroller.
- Make sure your carrier is the right size for baby's size and age.
- Beware of carriers that you cannot manipulate on your own. It's unrealistic to think that you will always have a spouse or companion nearby to help get baby in and out.
- If you plan on sharing the carrier with a spouse or babysitter, make sure it adjusts to fit everyone who will use it.
- Carriers made of fabric that is easy to wipe clean or that can be put in the wash are best.

Front Carriers
Front carriers are made up of two shoulder straps supporting a fabric seat. They are typically designed so that your baby can ride on your chest, facing inward or outward, and have adjustable settings to help distribute your baby's weight across your back and shoulders.

- Front carriers are good for newborns and can hold infants up to 30 pounds, though many parents find that a backpack works better once your baby exceeds 15 or 20 pounds.
- The snug fit of front carriers makes them warm, so pick one with breathable fabric that won't make baby (or wearer) too hot.
- Use a carrier with well-padded shoulder and waist or hip straps to save your back from strain.
- Make sure your carrier has a sturdy headrest that will support a sleeping baby's neck and head and that leg holes are banded with soft fabric that won't irritate a baby's skin.
- It is awkward to breastfeed a baby in a front carrier. If this is something you plan to do, you might want to consider a sling instead.

Slings
Slings are simply a wide swath of fabric that hangs across an adult's torso and is supported by one shoulder strap. They allow infants to lie in a fetal position or to face outward, and older babies may enjoy straddling the wearer's hip.

- Slings are best for carrying newborns under 20 pounds around the house or for short distances. As infants grow, they will become cramped and uncomfortable in a sling.
- Slings are incredibly comfortable for the wearer and allow infants to rest in a comfortable, natural sleeping position. The soft material of a sling wraps around the infant, simulating the coziness of a swaddling blanket, and the swaying motion may help them sleep.
- Slings are the easiest type of carrier in which to breastfeed.
- Make sure the strap of your sling is comfortable and well padded.
- Some slings can be bulky because of the large amount of fabric they use. Find a sling without unnecessary fabric to cut down on some of the bulk.
- Cotton and other breathable fabrics are best for slings, which tend to get warm because of baby's close proximity to the parent.

Backpacks
A baby backpack is similar to one used for camping except that a seat for baby takes the place of a gear compartment. The frame and straps help distribute baby's weight evenly over your shoulders and hips.

- Baby is old enough to ride in a backpack when she can sit up on her own (about 5 to 6 months). Until then, it's best to stick with a front carrier.
- Backpacks are sometimes difficult to get on and off without help, so they may not be convenient if you're running errands that require taking the pack on and off at each location. Practice solo loading and unloading of baby until you get the hang of it.
- It is especially important to make sure a backpack fits correctly and is adjusted properly.
- Look for a lightweight backpack with an adjustable inside seat and a harness that will safely strap baby in.
- Choose a model that has a stable support stand that allows you to prop it up while putting baby in or taking baby out.
- If you're planning on hiking and camping with baby, invest in a protective canopy to shelter them from the elements.
- For heavier children or for hiking, look for one with a waist belt; this helps transfer some of the weight from your shoulders to your hips.
- A backpack with roomy, easy-to-access pockets for baby gear will be more convenient.

Safety Tips
- Carriers should not be used while driving, jogging, skating, or riding a bike.
- Frame-style carriers should be used only when baby can sit unassisted.
- When picking something up while wearing a carrier, always bend at the knees so that baby doesn't fall out.
- Do not cook while baby is in the carrier.
- Stay off stools and ladders while wearing a carrier.
- Do not reach for overhead items that could fall and hit baby on the head.