Front Carriers - Let baby see the world from your eyes
Because baby will be sitting instead of being cradled, front packs are perhaps more suited to infants about three months old and over. By then baby can hold her own head, and the spine and pelvic muscles are more fully developed. Manufacturers suggest babies be at least 8 pounds and 21 inches high, and they should face inward to easily rest their head on your chest.
Versatile Front and Back Carriers
Most parents use their pack until baby is 20 pounds, though some models, such as the Ergo, can be used both on the front and the back. The back position is to be used for older infants who can easily hold their head up. Since the Ergo has a waist belt as well as shoulder straps, baby's weight sits on your hips, allowing you to easily carry a heavier baby with little shoulder or back stress. The Ergo also allows infants to sit and straddle your body rather than simply hanging from the pouch, which is a more natural position.
Features to look for:
- Adjustable straps so mom, dad, and other caretakers can use the same carrier with a few simple adjustments
- Padding around the leg and arm holes for baby’s comfort
- Firm head and neck rests for younger infants, with the ability to fold the head rest down so an older baby can look around and see the world
- Wide, padded straps for your own comfort, especially if you’re carrying a heavier baby
- Easy to remove – some models allow you to unbuckle the carrier from the harness, so you can move baby and the seat together without waking him up
- Machine washable fabric (yes, babies can be messy!)
The Classic BabyBjorn Front Carrier
The classic carrier is designed to carry rear facing newborns and forward facing infants. As soon as your baby is 21 inches long and weighs 8 lbs she can ride in the carrier facing you. The carrier provides head and neck support; leg straps reduce the size of leg openings (they should always be used for babies under ten pounds). Once your baby can hold her head up, she is ready to face forward. The carrier will adjust (using a sliding buckle) to fit your child up to 25 lbs (about 2 1/2 years). Suggested modifications based on weight and height are enclosed with the Carrier. You'll be able to manage all of the adjustments by yourself, which helps when it's just you and the kid. Color coded latches simplify putting on and taking off the Original. Also, you can easily move a sleeping child from carrier to crib without disturbing her. The Original's design makes it easy to assemble, adjust, and wear.
- Find it at
Tip Toe Turtle
