Get to Know Your Baby Carrier Options
Baby carriers come in a few main styles, from soft stretchy wraps to structured carriers with buckles and padded waist belts. Here’s a quick look at five options in our collection, so you can see how their features, sizing and setup differ at a glance.
- Ergobaby Omni Deluxe All-in-One | Suitable stage: Newborn to toddler (approx. 0-48 months) | Weight range: 3.2-20.4kg | Carry positions: Facing in, facing out, hip and back | Key features: Padded lumbar support, regular or crossed straps, one-handed sliders, UPF hood, 6 storage areas and hip-healthy positioning
- BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony | Suitable stage: Newborn to approx. 3 years | Weight range: 3.2-15kg (53-100cm) | Carry positions: Newborn, facing in, facing out and on your back | Key features: Breathable 3D mesh, pressure-relieving waist belt, adjustable head support and hip-healthy design
- Boba X Adjustable Carrier | Suitable stage: Newborn to toddler | Weight range: 3.2-20.4kg | Carry positions: Front and back | Key features: Micro-adjustable seat (20-53cm), crossable padded straps, wide waist belt for waists 60-145cm and 100% cotton twill
- BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini | Suitable stage: Newborn to approx. 12 months | Weight range: 3.2-11kg (from 53cm) | Carry positions: Newborn, facing in and facing out | Key features: Simple to put on, front panel unclips to lift out a sleeping baby, OEKO-TEX certified and machine washable at 40°C
- Boba Classic Wrap | Suitable stage: Newborn, most comfortable to 9kg | Weight range: 3.2-15kg | Carry positions: Front wrap carry | Key features: Approx. 5m stretchy cotton blend, one size fits all, doubles as a breastfeeding cover and hip-healthy positioning
Use-Cases and Compatibility
The right baby carrier depends on your baby’s age and size, your body and how you plan to use it day to day.
- For newborns
Soft wraps and newborn carriers hold tiny babies snug and upright against your chest. The Boba Classic Wrap and Moby Evolution Wrap are stretchy wraps you tie on, while the Ergobaby Embrace and BabyBjörn Carrier Mini buckle on with no wrapping required.
- For newborn to toddler in one carrier
If you’d prefer to buy once, an all-in-one structured carrier adjusts as your baby grows. The Ergobaby Omni Deluxe, Ergobaby Omni Classic, BabyBjörn Harmony and Boba X can all be used from the newborn stage into the toddler years.
- For warm weather
Mesh fabrics let more air through, which can help on warmer Australian days. Look at mesh versions such as the BabyBjörn Carrier One Air Mesh and the Ergobaby Omni mesh carriers, and dress your baby lightly to avoid overheating.
- For different body shapes
If you’re a plus-size or petite parent, or sharing the carrier with a partner, look for a wide adjustment range. The Boba X waist belt fits waists from 60 to 145cm, and its crossable straps can be adjusted quickly between wearers.
- For toddlers and hiking
For older toddlers, the Mumma Etcetera Hipsy Carrier gives you a seat for quick ups and downs, while the Thule Sapling Child Carrier is a hiking backpack with a 22L gear compartment and a UPF50 sunshade.
Keeping Your Baby Carrier Clean and Fresh
Baby carriers pick up milk, dribble and everyday mess, so regular care keeps them comfortable to wear. Always check the care instructions for your specific model.
Wash as directed - Many carriers are machine washable, but settings vary, so follow the care label and let the carrier dry completely before using it again.
Use a bib or teething pad - A teething pad or carrier bib protects the straps from dribble and is quicker to wash than the whole carrier.
Check buckles and stitching - Look over buckles, straps and seams regularly for wear, and stop using the carrier if anything is damaged.
Store it dry - Keep your carrier somewhere clean and dry, and avoid leaving it in a hot car.
What to Check Before You Buy:
- Match the carrier to your baby’s size
Check the minimum and maximum weight for each carrier, and whether a newborn insert or adjustment is needed for the early weeks.
- Think about how you’ll use it
Wraps suit newborn snuggles at home, while structured carriers with buckles are quicker to put on for outings and suit longer wear as your baby gets heavier.
- Look for hip-healthy positioning
Choose a carrier that supports your baby in a natural seated position, with knees higher than bottom. Several carriers in our range are acknowledged as hip healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
- Check the fit for you
Padded straps and a supportive waist belt help spread the weight. If more than one person will wear the carrier, look for easy adjustments.
Looking for more options? Explore our wider range of nappy bags, travel prams and nursing pillows.