Our pick for most familiesBirth (3.2 kg) to about 20 kg
Ergobaby Omni Breeze
A breathable mesh carrier that works from birth without an insert and lasts into the toddler years.
Carriers & wraps
A good carrier frees your hands and keeps your baby close, but fit and positioning matter more than the brand. Red Nose's TICKS checklist is the one to learn: tight, in view at all times, close enough to kiss, keep the chin off the chest, supported back. For developing hips, the International Hip Dysplasia Institute recommends a wide seat that holds the knees level with or above the bottom in an M shape. In Australian summers, mesh panels make a real difference. Check the newborn weight minimum and whether an insert is needed, and try it on with a weighted doll or your baby before buying if you can.
Budget pickNewborn months — check the maker's weight limit
Hug-a-Bub Organic Pocket Wrap
A soft organic cotton stretchy wrap that suits the newborn months; fiddly to tie while you learn.
Premium pickBirth (3.2 kg) to about 3 years (15 kg)
BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony
A soft, well-padded carrier from birth with mesh options; easy to put on, but no back carry listed.
Things we don’t recommend, and why
- Bag-style or cocoon slings that curl a baby into a C shape with the chin pressed to the chest. This position can restrict breathing. Source: Red Nose: Slings and baby carriers
- Narrow-based carriers that leave a baby's legs hanging straight down for long periods. Hip specialists recommend a wide seat that supports the thighs in a spread-squat (M) position. Source: International Hip Dysplasia Institute: Baby carriers and related products
Price bands for this category: $ < $100 · $$ $100–200 · $$$ $200–300 · $$$$ > $300. Prices change — check the retailer.