Baby carriers have become a beloved staple for many parents, offering a unique blend of convenience, comfort, and closeness. They allow you to keep your little one close while keeping your hands free—perfect for navigating busy days, running errands, or simply enjoying quality bonding time.
In this article, we’ll explore the various types of baby carriers and the essential accessories that can enhance your comfort and convenience while using them.
Types of Baby Carriers
Baby carriers come in various styles, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Here are the most common types you’ll find:
Soft Structured Carriers (SSC)
SSCs are designed with padded shoulder straps and sturdy buckles that allow for easy adjustments, ensuring both comfort and proper support for the wearer and the baby. This ergonomic design helps evenly distribute the baby's weight across your hips and shoulders, reducing strain during extended use, which makes SSCs ideal for parents who need a reliable carrier for longer outings or everyday wear.
SSCs are very user-friendly, featuring quick-release buckles and adjustable straps that allow caregivers to put them on and take them off with minimal hassle, perfect for busy parents on the go. Many models also come with additional features like lumbar support, breathable fabric, and multiple carrying positions to accommodate a growing child’s needs.
SSCs generally support babies from newborn up to toddlers around 4 years old, or between 3 to 20 kilograms. This wide range means that parents can often use one carrier for several years, making SSCs a practical investment.
Image: Aseema Baby Carrier - Soulslings
Hip Slings
This carrier is ideal for parents seeking a lightweight, compact option for short outings or quick errands. It is suitable for babies aged 6 months to 2.5 years (up to 20 kg) and is particularly useful once your baby has full torso control and can sit unassisted.
Soulslings’ Imbu Hip Sling, made from soft, durable cotton fabric, offers comfort and support for both the parent and child. Its buckle design allows for easy adjustments, making it user-friendly and perfect for on-the-go use. The carrier is also easy to maintain, with options for spot cleaning or gentle machine washing.
Image: Imbu Hip Sling - Soulslings
Mei Tai
A Mei Tai is a traditional Asian-style baby carrier that blends the benefits of both wraps and structured carriers. It consists of a rectangular fabric panel to support the baby’s body, with four long straps attached at each corner. These straps are tied securely around the wearer’s waist and shoulders to hold the baby close and provide ergonomic support.
Key Features of Mei Tai Carriers:
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Ergonomic Support: When tied correctly, Mei Tais promote healthy hip positioning (the “M” shape) for babies, which is important for proper hip development and comfort.
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Comfort for Wearer and Baby: The wide, padded shoulder straps distribute the baby’s weight evenly, reducing strain on the wearer’s back and shoulders. The fabric panel supports the baby’s back and neck comfortably.
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Adjustability: Mei Tais can be adjusted to fit newborns through toddlers simply by tightening or loosening the ties. This adjustability makes them a long-lasting option as your child grows.
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Material and Breathability: Typically made from soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen, Mei Tais are comfortable for both baby and wearer, especially in warm climates.
Carry Positions: Mei Tais are suitable for multiple carry positions, including front inward-facing, hip carries, and back carries, offering versatility as your baby grows.
Many parents appreciate Mei Tais for their balance between comfort, adjustability, and simplicity. They are lighter and less bulky than many buckle carriers and easier to put on than wraps, making them ideal for everyday use.
Image: Soulslings Mitra Hybrid Baby Carrier - CradleNest
Must Have Baby Carrier Accessories
To make babywearing more comfortable and convenient, consider adding these accessories:
Sun hood
A sun hood, especially so in sunny Singapore, is an essential add-on for outdoor walks. It provides shade to protect your baby from harsh sunlight and creates a cozy cover for naps on the go.
Image: Soulslings Sun Hood - CradleNest
Drool Pads
Drool pads are a must-have if your baby is teething or loves to chew on the carrier straps. Babies often gnaw or suck on the shoulder straps, which can quickly make the carrier damp and unhygienic. Drool pads protect your carrier from stains and moisture, keeping it clean and extending its lifespan. They’re also easy to remove and wash, so you don’t need to wash the entire carrier frequently.
Image: Soulslings Drool Pads - CradleNest
Lumbar Support
A Lumbar support is an essential accessory for parents who plan to babywear for extended periods, such as long outings. A lumbar support cushion provides extra padding and distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure on your spine and improving posture. This is particularly important if you’re recovering postpartum or already prone to back discomfort.
Image: Soulslings Lumbar Support - CradleNest
Soulslings
Here is a compiled list of of carriers offered by CradleNest’s official partner for Baby Carriers, Soulslings:
Image: Baby Carrier Comparison - Soulslings
Soulsling’s carriers are ergonomically designed to support healthy hip development, made with 100% natural fabrics, and crafted with care for both baby and parent. What truly sets SoulSlings apart is their commitment to eco-friendly, ethically produced products that don’t compromise on style or function. By partnering with SoulSlings, CradleNest brings parents a trusted solution for comfortable, practical, and conscious babywearing.
Download the CradleNest app to check out carriers from Soulslings, available on CradleNest’s Marketplace. Discover more parenting resources on the app, and follow us on Instagram @cradlenestsg for updates, tips, and a peek into our growing community.