If you have a child that’s under 18 months old, there is a good chance that you’ve heard of baby wraps. But you may not know how they can help provide comfort to you and your child. A baby wrap is essentially a piece of fabric that you tie in a knot around your torso to create a little pouch for your baby. The idea is that you can still get those precious cuddles in with your little one, but at the same time you’ll be able to get things done around the house or on the go. Plus, if you haven’t seen social media already, wearing a stylish baby wrap has become a fashion trend of its own.
While this may be the case, finding the right baby wrap for you and your child is not always an easy task. You have to make sure you have the right fabric, and that both you and your baby are comfortable. Plus, you might not think that a 10 to 30 pound baby is heavy, but when you have them tied to your chest we bet you’ll start to feel it. This is why the baby wrap you choose also needs to keep the weight of your child evenly distributed across your back, chest, and shoulders. If this sounds overwhelming, don’t panic, because we did the research. We’ll be showing you the 10 best baby wraps to choose from, and discussing everything you need to know in order to help you make the right choice.
- Features to Consider in Good Baby Wraps
- Top 10 Best Baby Wraps 2023
- 1. Best Overall Baby Wrap: CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap
- 2. Easiest Baby Wrap to Use: Boba Baby Wrap
- 3. Most Stylish Baby Wrap: Baby K'tan Print Wrap
- 4. Best Baby Wrap for Swaddling: KeaBabies Baby Wrap
- 5. Best Premium Baby Wrap: Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling
- 6. Softest Baby Wrap: Moby Classic Baby Wrap
- 7. Best Budget Baby Wrap: Sleepy Wrap
- 8. Best Natural Baby Wrap: Hip Baby Wrap Sling
- 9. Best Baby Wrap for Nursing: WeeSprout Baby Wrap
- 10. Best Gender-Neutral Baby Wrap: Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier
- Understanding Baby Wraps, and How to Choose the Right Product
- Final Thoughts
Features to Consider in Good Baby Wraps
Before we dive right into the 10 best baby wraps, there are a few things that you should keep an eye on.
Weight Limit
One of the first things you need to consider is the weight of your child. Every baby wrap that you come across will have a specific weight limit, and going over that weight limit can be harmful for both you and your child. The maximum weight depends on the wrap, but most baby wraps will usually hold up to around 30 to 40 pounds. A good rule of thumb to follow is that once your child is 5 pounds over the recommended weight, it’s time to move on from baby wraps.
Material
The material of a baby wrap is all about preference, but some materials are better than others. You’ll come across cotton baby wraps that are great for comfort, but you’ll also come across baby wraps that are made with elastic fabrics. This is all about what you need, and if you need both, we recommend considering a baby wrap that incorporates a blend of cotton and elastic materials.
There are also some unique materials on the market as well. These materials include bamboo, Lenzing modal, and spandex. Each material may have a different reaction and feel for you and your child, so experimenting with different materials is always a good idea before you choose a baby wrap.
Size
Baby wraps can either be a one-size-fits-all product, or a product that has a lot of different sizes. This can make shopping for the perfect baby wrap very tricky because you need to find a size that’s comfortable for both you and your baby. The good news is that the sizes aren’t too complicated, and there is a wide variety. For example, seeing a baby wrap with several size options from extra small to extra large is very common, and you’ll also notice that a lot of baby wraps are one-size-fits-all.
Top 10 Best Baby Wraps 2023
1. Best Overall Baby Wrap: CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Weight Limit: 36 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: French terry cotton and spandex
Design
The CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap offers a lot of versatility in the 9 different ways it can be wrapped. The 9-in-1 design allows you to use this wrap in ways that include kangaroo wraps, front wraps, nursing wraps, cross-carrying, and hip carrying wraps. This makes the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap a great tool for mothers that need to nurse, travel, and care for their babies on the go, and it helps you accomplish this without straining one specific area of your body.
The material that the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap uses is a premium blend of cotton and spandex, so you get a baby wrap that’s both comfortable and efficient. Even if you need to change positions from your hip to a cross carry, the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap makes the entire process simple with its one minute knot times. This design is what makes it the best overall baby wrap on the market. For mothers looking to preserve their backs, the CuddleBug 9-1 Baby Wrap is perfect.
What sets it apart
What sets the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap apart is the fact that it can be used in 9 different ways. A lot of products, like the WeeSprout Baby Wrap and the Sleepy Wrap , only offer one carrying position, and this can strain your shoulder and back muscles. Having more options at your disposal is a great way to get things done around the house without adding unnecessary strain.
While the one-size-fits-all design might be great for most mothers, particulary small or large parents might find that it doesn’t fit quite right. The CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap is also not the most gender-neutral product, and women will definitely benefit the most.
Things you should know
The CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap is made by a company that cares about both you and your baby. The company has done extensive research to design a baby wrap that won’t hinder the growth of your baby’s spine and hips, even if you hold your baby for a prolonged period of time. Also, a small portion of the money spent on the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap goes into supporting the Long Way Home charity.
The CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap can be purchased in a few different colors, and while your color choice may impact the price, the difference is not substantial. The baby wrap itself is also great to use with different knots, but you’ll need to learn each one separately. As for the price of the product itself, the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap should fit into everyone’s budget.
Pros
- 9 different wrap options keep you from straining one part of your body
- There is a wrap option to help cover yourself in public when nursing, providing you with extra privacy
- 95% cotton and 5% spandex is the perfect blend for comfort, strength, and flexibility
Cons
- The one-size-fits-all design doesn't work for the extremes, both extra small or extra large, which can make it uncomfortable for mothers with unique body types
2. Easiest Baby Wrap to Use: Boba Baby Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Cotton and spandex blend
Design
The Boba Baby Wrap combines high-quality cotton and spandex to make sure that you get the stretch you need in a baby wrap. This blend allows the Boba Baby Wrap to be comfortable for both babies and mothers, and it also promotes safe growth for your child. The wrap itself creates a knot that sits safely on your chest, which allows you to move safely throughout your home and on the go. There is one main knot that you can tie with this wrap.
What sets it apart
What sets the Boba Baby Wrap apart is the speed in which it can be used. Products like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap may offer a lot of different knots and features, but the Boba Baby Wrap keeps things both simple, efficient, and easy to learn. With only one knot to learn, the Boba Baby Wrap can have you up and running in less than a minute. For mothers that are focused on time-management, the Boba Baby Wrap is better than complex baby wraps.
Things you should know
The Boba Baby Wrap can only be used in one possibe position, which can be a small problem. If you’ll be using the Boba Baby Wrap often, it can cause some discomfort and back pain. The Boba Baby Wrap is also a bit expensive when compared to some other baby wraps, which can place a slight strain on the budget.
The Boba Baby Wrap is a one-size-fits-all product, but you need to be a bit careful. As a one-size-fits-all product, the Boba Baby Wrap is best for people who normally wear a size between small and large large. For parents that may be outside this range, the Boba Baby Wrap can be uncomfortable.
Pros
- The wrap can be ready to go in under 60 seconds once you get the hang of it
- Ergonomic design ensures that your baby can cuddle safely while promoting safe hip development
- Washer and dryer friendly for quick and easy clean
Cons
- Only comes with one knot option that can place strain on your back and shoulders when used often
- The one-size-fits-all design can be uncomfortable for a few body types
3. Most Stylish Baby Wrap: Baby K'tan Print Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: 2x-small through extra large
- Material: Cotton
Design
The Baby K’tan Print Wrap is made with a very comfortable cotton material and comes with a lot of different color and size options. There are 5 different wrap knots that you can use with your child, and these are great for parents that don’t want to strain a specific area of their body. The patterns and colors are also friendly for both genders, so there is no need to leave fathers out with the Baby K’tan Print Wrap.
What sets it apart
What really sets the Baby K’tan Print Wrap apart is the wide range of options that you can choose from. There are plenty of different colors, sizes, and styles to fit the needs of any parent. Keep in mind that different sizes and colors may cause the price to fluctuate a little bit, but for the most part the cost can be affordable for most budgets.
A lot of baby wraps like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap and Boba Baby Wrap may be one-size-fits-all, but there is a lack of accuracy there for people with larger and smaller frames.
The Baby K’tan Print Wrap compensates for this by providing you with plenty of great size options to choose from. The size options are also inclusive of people with all body types, from XXS to XL.
Things you should know
The Baby K’tan Print Wrap is great for both parents, and when you view the product there is even a chart to help you find the right size for you. While there may be a lot of options, things can get a bit pricey when you need special sizes or colors. This can quickly cause the Baby K’tan Print Wrap to become very expensive, so always be mindful of the options you choose.
The Baby K’tan Print Wrap definitely took a risk by going 100% cotton, but the baby wrap they created is very comfortable. The only issue with cotton is that it can shrink when machine washed, and it can become a bit stiff. The manufacturer claims that the product is washer and dryer friendly, but cotton almost always shrinks.
Pros
- 5 different wrap options to keep the strain off of specific areas
- A lot of customization options like stripes, patterns, colors
- Machine washable
Cons
- Unique sizes and patterns can be expensive
- Prone to shrinking when machine washed
4. Best Baby Wrap for Swaddling: KeaBabies Baby Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Weight Limit: 36 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Cotton and spandex blend
Design
The KeaBabies Baby Wrap is made for parents that need one item to solve a lot of problems. The baby wrap itself is made with a premium blend of spandex and cotton, and it includes a nursing belt as well for additional support and comfort. The KeaBabies Baby Wrap can also be used as a swaddle blanket, which is great for putting little ones to sleep and making them feel comfortable during the first few months they’re out of the womb.
On the go, the KeaBabies Baby Wrap is great for nursing if you find yourself in a public setting. The baby wrap can be used as a cover to add some additional privacy when needed, and the wrap itself provides plenty of support. The KeaBabies Baby Wrap is also made with an ergonomic design that keeps your child’s hips in the right spot.
What sets it apart
The KeaBabies Baby Wrap offers a bit more than a lot of baby wraps on the market. While baby wraps like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap and Baby K’tan Print Wrap offer multiple knot tying options and positions, the KeaBabies Baby Wrap excels at providing a comprehensive approach to infant care. Whether you need nursing support, a blanket to help them sleep at night, or a reliable carrier, the KeaBabies Baby Wrap does it all.
Things you should know
The KeaBabies Baby Wrap is a one-size-fits-all wrap that can be tied in two different ways. For mothers that have smaller waists, the knot can be tied on the front, and for larger waists the knot can be comfortably tied on the back. This makes the KeaBabies Baby Wrap a legitimate one-size-fits-all product for both parents. It is available in a large number of colors, but they’re mostly muted shades, so parents looking for a flashy wrap may need to look elsewhere.
The KeaBabies Baby Wrap can be washed in washing machines, but it’s not dryer friendly. If you attempt to use a dryer, it can damage the elasticity of the wrap. So, when cleaning the KeaBabies Baby Wrap, always make sure that you let it air dry on a hanger.
Pros
- Can be used as a baby swaddle and nursing aid
- Comes with an instruction manual to teach you how to tie the perfect not
- Perfect blend of cotton and spandex for stretch and support
- Truly one-size-fits-all
Cons
- When cleaning the KeaBabies Baby Wrap, it can take a very long time to dry
- Limited color options
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Bamboo and linen
Design
The Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling is a premium sling that functions the same way as any other baby wrap, but it uses a stainless steel ring as a fabric feed. The bamboo and linen material combination is great for the environment and poses little to no risk to your child’s skin.
This combination is also great for mothers that tend to get warm easily, because the soft linen ensures maximum airflow. This feature also works for babies, because babies are not able to regulate heat the same way that adults do. The ring sling component of the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling is also designed in a way that makes sure your child’s hip development is not compromised.
The Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling is a premium product in almost every category. There are over 20 colors to choose from, and each one is stylish. The materials that you’ll find in this product are also unique, and you won’t find a bamboo and linen combination in a lot of baby wraps out there. The price may be high, but considering what this product is made of, it’s worth every penny.
What sets it apart
A lot of baby wraps tend to focus on different carrying positions and special knots, but the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling makes everything simple with the ring sling design. To change positions or adjust anything, all you need to do is feed the fabric through the ring. Some ring slings are also very poorly built products because the fabric can wear out through the ring. The bamboo and linen fabric help the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling compete and outperform baby wraps, which is definitely unique in a ring sling product. Compared to any other baby wrap on this list, the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling offers a unique premium alternative.
Things you should know
The wrap itself was created by a mother of two, and a small portion of your purchase goes to mothers in need outside of the United States. This is a good cause and a product that’s made with good intentions.
The only real downside here is that this wrap can be a bit expensive, and while there may be a wide range of premium colors, different options can make that price rise even higher.
Pros
- Ring sling design offers a safe alternative to multiple knots
- Made with premium linen and bamboo to provide durability and comfort with minimal skin irritation
- The fabric is very long, which fits the plus size and extra small sizes well
Cons
- If you dislike the ring sling design, you may want to go with a traditional baby wrap
- Some styles are even more expensive than others
6. Softest Baby Wrap: Moby Classic Baby Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Weight Limit: 33 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Cotton
Design
The Moby Classic Baby Wrap comes with some of the thickest cotton on the market, and you get about 18 feet in total fabric length. This works well for both you and your child because it provides you with enough material to tie a few different knots around your body. Knots aside, the amount of material that you get also helps you hold your baby in different positions. These positions include facing you, off to the side, and facing out.
What sets it apart
The 100% soft and flexible cotton material is what sets this baby wrap apart. Products like the Hip Baby Wrap and Baby K’tan Print Wrap utilize 100% cotton too, but they tend to lack the elasticity that the Moby Classic Baby Wrap has. The Moby Classic Baby Wrap also comes at a great value and doesn’t cost extra money to change the color options. This is huge because you’ll notice that a lot of other baby wraps will increase in price when you select different color options.
Things you should know
The Moby Classic Baby Wrap works well for both genders and can conform to most body types out there. The Moby Classic Baby Wrap can be machine washed, but it can’t be dried in the dryer. While you can let it air dry, if you’re in a big rush, you can leave it in the dryer on a very low setting without heat. Cotton will shrink, so always be mindful of that.
For parents that are new to baby wraps, the Moby Classic Baby wrap includes instructions for a few different knots. These knots include the hug hold, pregnancy sling, hip hold, kangaroo hold, and newborn hug. The company behind the Moby Classic Baby Wrap also has a website that can answer most of your questions.
Pros
- Works well for both parents, not just mothers
- Lots of different color options that don't directly impact the price (in most cases)
- Very thick and elastic cotton
- Comes with an instructions manual
- Extensive online support
Cons
- If used in a dryer with the heat on, the baby wrap can end up sinking
7. Best Budget Baby Wrap: Sleepy Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Cotton and spandex
Design
The Sleepy Wrap combines spandex and cotton to provide a comfortable and ergonomic seat for your child. There are a few different knot options, which depend on how much slack you have leftover, and these knots can be tied to your preferences. This allows you to prioritize the comfort of you and your child while making sure that their hips still grow the way that they should.
The Sleepy Wrap also keeps your child’s head very close to your body, which is where it gets the name Sleepy Wrap from. Babies tend to sleep better when close to their parents, and hearing the soothing sound of your heartbeat will help put your child to sleep after nursing or a long day. If you’re a parent that’s having a little bit of trouble getting your child to sleep, the Sleepy Wrap can be a great tool to have at your disposal.
What sets it apart
The Sleepy Wrap is made with a cotton and spandex blend that a lot of great products like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap and Boba Baby Wrap come with, but that’s not what makes this product special.
Unlike these products, the Sleepy Wrap Baby Wrap offers you a bit of extra slack. This slack can accommodate both petite and plus sizes, and the leftover slack can be used to tie different knots around the body.
Things you should know
The Sleepy Wrap is designed to be used with a few different knots, but it doesn’t have as much fabric as some wraps like the Boba Baby Wrap or Hip Baby Wrap. These knots depend on how much slack you have, which is what makes it great for people who have a smaller frame. The only downside to this is that people with larger frames may have a harder time getting the most out of this product.
The Sleepy Wrap is 100% machine washable, which makes cleaning up a breeze, and it comes in two different shades of grey. What really makes this baby wrap the best budget wrap is the price. When compared to products like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap and Baby K’tan Print Wrap, you’ll notice that there is a huge price gap. For parents that need a very affordable baby wrap, the Sleepy Baby Wrap is one of the best options to consider.
Pros
- Provides extra slack to tie different knots all around the body, which helps alleviate strain on single areas
- Works very well for breastfeeding
- Keeps children close to your chest in order to help them fall asleep to the sound of your heartbeat
- Very low price and budget-friendly
Cons
- People with petite frames get the most out of this product
8. Best Natural Baby Wrap: Hip Baby Wrap Sling
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Cotton
Design
The Hip Baby Wrap is designed with comfort being a priority. The 100% cotton material, that’s hand-woven and imported from India, provides some of the best comfort that you can find. The materials are all fair trade and dyed with eco-friendly non-toxic colors, so this wrap is as good for the earth as it is for your family.
The cotton design may not be elastic, but the Hip Baby Wrap provides enough fabric to fit body types from petite to extra large with no issues. Another benefit of this hand-woven cotton is that it’s very heat tolerant, meaning it won’t cause you or your baby to overheat. The Hip Baby Wrap is one of the softest baby wraps on the market, and it doesn’t compromise efficiency.
What sets it apart
The Hip Baby Wrap is a bit different than a lot of standard baby wraps like the Boba Baby Wrap, Sleepy Baby Wrap, and even the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap .
You’ll notice the key difference right away because the sling carrying design is more comparable to a product like the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling . While it may function similarly, the Hip Baby Wrap does so without incorporating a cumbersome ring that can get in the way of you and your baby. This is great for comfort, your baby’s hips, and even your back.
Things you should know
The Hip Baby Wrap is made with a lightweight fabric that is machine washable and dryer friendly. So, not only is it very comfortable, but it’s easy to clean as well. The sling-based design itself is also great for mothers that love the idea of a ring sling product without the hassle, and it comes with a lot of color options that don’t drive the price up.
Pros
- Sling design is comfortable and easy to use
- Hand-woven cotton is extremely soft and safe for both you and your child
- Knots can be tied very quick thanks to the sling design
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic
Cons
- Lacks elastic materials
- Can shrink with a hot dryer cycle
9. Best Baby Wrap for Nursing: WeeSprout Baby Wrap
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Lenzing modal
Design
The WeeSprout Baby Wrap is made with 100% Lenzing modal fabric, a uniquely soft textile that is excellent for both comfort and breathability. This material provides all of the benefits a cotton and spandex blend provides, so for parents that may be sensitive to cotton products, the WeeSprout Baby Wrap is a great alternative that won’t break the bank.
The baby wrap itself can be tied into a few different knots, but it’s best used as a front-facing carrier. Keeping this in mind, the WeeSprout Baby Wrap is great for nursing, putting your child to sleep, and hands-free swaddling on the go.
What sets it apart
The Lenzing modal material is really what sets this product apart. Most baby wraps use linen, cotton, or even a blend of cotton and spandex, but the WeeSprout Baby Wrap gives parents another option.
Another key feature that sets the WeeSprout Baby Wrap apart is the extra storage that it provides. Not a lot of baby wraps feature an additional pocket, and this pocket can be used to store things like breast milk if you need to feed on the go.
Things you should know
The Lenzing modal material can be a great alternative to cotton and spandex, but it can be irritating for some children. If this is the case, it can add discomfort instead of easing it. The Lenzing modal material is also a great option for parents that want to machine wash and dry a baby wrap too.
Plus, if you like different patterns and color options, the WeeSprout Baby Wrap has plenty to offer. The price is fair, but compare and contrast the prices of different colors and patterns before you make your decision—they vary more than you might think.
Pros
- Lenzing modal is softer than most cotton and spandex blends, and it maintains the same level of flexibility and durability
- Comes with an extra pocket to help you store items like breast milk
- Lots of different color and style options
Cons
- Lenzing modal might not be comfortable for everyone, and it can cause mild irritation in parents and babies with fabric allergies
10. Best Gender-Neutral Baby Wrap: Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Weight Limit: 35 pounds
- Sizes: One-size-fits-all
- Material: Cotton and spandex blend
Design
The Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier is made with gender-neutral colors, which makes it a great product for both parents. The blend of 95% cotton and 5% spandex provides both comfort and stability, and the design improves the posture of newborns.
The Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier is also very sporty looking, which can help it feel a bit more stylish for younger parents that may find themselves on the go. There is plenty of material to tie a few different knots, and this makes it great for parents that may want to switch carrying positions.
What sets it apart
What sets the Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier apart is the gender-neutral and athleisure-inspired design. A lot of products like the Baby K’tan Print Wraphave a few gender-neutral options, but the Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier looks sporty and attractive on both men and women. Each color option can be worn by any gender, which truly makes this the right fit for any parent that wants to carry their child.
The design is also very sporty, which is definitely unique in baby wraps. A lot of baby wraps like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap might sacrifice style for performance, but the Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier is definitely made by a company that has great taste. So, not only will it provide you and your child the support you need, but you can look good doing it. You’ll also be pleased to hear that the Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier is one of the more affordable options available.
Things you should know
The Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier is machine-washable and dryer friendly, which makes it very easy to clean. The baby wrap itself is also durable and flexible; it can safely last up to 18 months.The main problem with the Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier is that it does sacrifice some performance for style. Yes, it’s a great fit for any parent, but it doesn’t come with a lot of specialty knot options. This makes it a great product for younger parents that may not need the added support and features, but it can be a bit lackluster for older parents who are in need of pain relief.
Pros
- Gender-neutral colors and design patterns
- Sporty look that matches a lot of athleisure products
- Double-sided stitching provides additional support and durability
Cons
- Designed for parents who don’t need strong support
Understanding Baby Wraps, and How to Choose the Right Product
Knowing the Knots and Holds
Baby wraps seem complicated at first, and with no prior knowledge, it can seem like an impossible task to tie the perfect knot. So, before we get into the benefits of a baby wrap, we want to take some time to explain each of the knots you’ll come across. If you don’t know how to tie them, don’t panic, we have some great videos for you.
Front-Facing Cross Carry
The front-facing cross carry is one of the most common ways to use a wrap. Most products baby wraps will come with instructions to show you how to tie the appropriate knot, and it provides plenty of support for newborn babies. This is a knot and position you can use from birth to 18 months. One thing to consider with this carrying position is that it can place some strain on your back.
A great product to use for a simple front-facing carry is the Boba Baby Wrap . The Boba Baby Wrap promises a quick and easy knot tying experience for every parent.
Hip Carry
The hip carry is a position that allows you to take some strain off of your back and shoulders. The location of your child will be lower, and closer to your hips than your head. This position is best for children that are at least 5 or 6 months old because there is less support for their head. The hip carry is a great position to use if your shoulders or back begin to feel a bit worn out. If you’re looking to take the pressure off your back, some great products to consider are the Hip Baby Wrap or CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap . These wraps both offer a carrying position that takes the strain off your back.
Another alternative to a baby wrap that relies on your back and shoulders is the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling. This wrap functions the same as the Hip Baby Wrap, but it utilizes a ring to feed the fabric through. This places the baby in different positions based on your preferences.
Kangaroo Carry
The kangaroo carry keeps your baby swaddled in a small pouch on your chest. With this wrap option, your baby should be within kissing distance, and your child should always have their head exposed. This wrap option is both comfortable and effective and can be used for nursing and swaddling. This is a wrap that’s safe for children of all ages, and it isn’t too hard to tie.
Kangaroo carry positions are great for babies, but they can place some strain on your back and shoulders. If this position is something you’d like to consider, products like the CuddleBug 9-in-1 Baby Wrap and Moby Classic Baby Wrap are great choices.
Back Carry
The back carry is a position where the baby has their back facing you. This position is great for parents that have children that are a bit older because it lets them explore the world through your eyes. Most of the products on the list, including our top overall pick can be switched to a back carry wrap, so the options are really up to you.
How to Tie Baby Wraps
Tying baby wraps is not easy at first, but it’s something that all new parents should try and learn. The basic knots like the front-facing cross carry and kangaroo carry are the easiest to learn, and some products like the Boba Baby Wrap pride themselves on being easy to use. If you’re not familiar with how to tie a baby wrap, we definitely recommend watching a video first. While it won’t show you how to tie every knot out there, once you know the basics you can begin experimenting with other holds.
If you want to use a lot of different positions, we definitely recommend looking at a product like the Moby Classic Baby Wrap . This baby wrap comes with a list of instructions for you to follow, and if you have any questions, you can always consult with their extensive customer support team.
What makes Baby Wraps Special
Baby wraps may seem like they’re only made to help you carry your child, but there is a lot more to the story here. Baby wraps are proven to increase parental and infant bonding, and they can even help mothers with nursing and swaddling. In order to know which baby wrap is right for you, take some time to read over these benefits and companion products.
Swaddling
There is a period of time after birth that’s referred to as the “4th trimester.” This is the timeframe from birth to about 3 months, and it can cause your baby to be a bit uncomfortable without a parent close by. This is why swaddling is important, because it helps your baby feel as if they’re still in the womb.
To get the most out of a swaddle wrap like the Sleepy Wrap, always keep your child close to your chest. Hearing your heartbeat while being swaddled can ease crying, and make a baby feel comfortable in a new environment. This is why front-facing carrying and kangaroo carrying are great choices for the first 3 months.
Breastfeeding
Babies need to be breastfed fed, or formula-fed, for a long time after birth. This is where they get their nutrients, and it can help strengthen their immune system. Breastfeeding is not always an easy task to accomplish, and it can be uncomfortable if you’re in the wrong position. This is where baby wraps come into play, making nursing far easier.
A good baby wrap will provide the support you need for comfortable breastfeeding, and any baby wrap on the list is good for this. We also know that some mothers may need to breastfeed on the go, which means that you’ll want a baby wrap that offers a bit more privacy. Baby wraps like the WeeSprout Baby Wrap provide plenty of privacy, and can even provide you with storage for things like baby bottles—which aren’t all created equal, so be sure to check out our list of the best baby bottles on the market today.
Putting a Baby to Sleep
If you’re having a rough time getting your baby to sleep, a baby wrap that also serves as a swaddle can definitely be helpful. If this is what you’ll be using a baby wrap for, always consider a wrap that keeps your baby’s head close to your chest. When it comes to wraps that help you and your child get the sleep you need, the Sleepy Wrap can’t be beat.
Back Relief
As a parent, carrying a baby can quickly become very difficult. This only gets worse as little ones reach upwards of 30 pounds, which can cause strain on your back if you keep carrying them without a wrap. Most baby wraps on the list will provide some type of back relief, but our favorite for back relief is the Hip Baby Wrap , which holds the baby lower and makes sure the pressure is off your back. If switching up your baby wrap isn’t enough, there are also some tips that you can follow to help train your body to carry your baby.
Style
The style of a baby wrap is important, especially if more than one parent will be using it. If more than one parent is involved, one-size-fits-all wraps that have a lot of different color and style options like the Baby K’tan Print Wrap and Acrabros Baby Wrap are great choices.
Materials
There are a lot of different materials out there, and the material you choose is really about preference. Premium products like the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling have high-quality materials that provide comfort and support, but they tend to cost more. A great blend for new parents is a product with a cotton and spandex blend. These blends are typically machine washable, and they provide plenty of elasticity for growing children.
Can Men Wear Baby Wraps?
It may seem like baby wraps are only for women based on how they’re often marketed, but this isn’t true at all. Both men and women can wear baby wraps and provide the same benefits to a child. The only difference is that men tend to have a larger frame, which can make it tricky to tie knots. This problem can be mitigated, however, by using baby wraps designed to be gender-neutral like the Acrabros Baby Wrap.
Final Thoughts
Shopping for a baby wrap may seem really simple, but there are a lot of things you need to consider. Make sure that you take some time to really think about what you need a baby wrap for. While some parents may just need some hands-free swaddle time, others may need to nurse on the go. This can make certain baby wraps work better for different parents, so take your own needs into consideration before you buy.
Baby wraps can be great for both you and your child, and they can help strengthen that maternal bond. Whether you need to do things around the house, or nurse on the go, a baby wrap is perfect for parents that need to multitask. Now that you’ve seen the options and know the facts, which baby wrap is the right fit for you?