How to Select the Best Front Carrier for Your Baby

A front carrier can keep your baby close to you while leaving your hands free to do other things. Here are a number of things to consider in your search for the carrier that will work best for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baby Slings
• Infant Carriers

1. Make sure it's comfortable ' a good front carrier should distribute your baby's weight evenly, without pulling hard on your shoulders.

2. Get an adjustable carrier, especially if both parents, any grandparents or other caregivers will also be carrying the baby.

3. Check for padding and support. A front carrier should be comfortable for your baby and should support his back and head.

4. Read the care instructions. Try to find a carrier that is easy to clean ' ideally, most of the components will be machine-washable.

5. Find a reversible carrier. Many carriers can be worn so that the baby faces toward you or away from you. A tiny baby should face toward your body, while an older baby, who can old his or her head up, may prefer to look around.

6. Check the weight requirements. Some front carriers can only be used for a few months, while others can hold larger babies.

7. Consider safety. All straps, buckles and snaps should be secure and easy to operate.

8. Think about the weather. If you are having a winter baby, buy a carrier made from warm fabric; for a spring or summer baby, consider lighter carriers.

Tips & Warnings

• Some carriers can be easily removed from the shoulder straps, if you want to put a sleeping baby down without removing him or her from the carrier.
• Check all closures and buckles to make sure you will be able to operate them with one hand - with a bit of practice, of course.
• Find a carrier that your baby can nurse in, if you are nursing.
• When your baby is facing you in a front carrier, check that his breathing is unobstructed.
• Avoid allowing your baby to overheat in a front carrier ' the warmth of your body will help to keep his body warm, so dress him or her accordingly, making sure to keep his arms and legs warm.
• Never use a carrier as a substitute for a car seat; this is both illegal and dangerous.

on 11/22/2005 When you head out with your baby in the carrier, don't forget to bring a hat or light blanket along to protect her little noggin' from the sun.