TheBabyCarriers

Archive for the ‘Babywearing’ Category

BabyBjorn is best, but Ergo is a good alternative

Front carriers, which support babies vertically, fit like a snug, forward-facing backpack. The shoulder straps for most front carrier models are adjustable, with higher-quality carriers offering better weight distribution. The most common complaint about front-facing carriers is back and shoulder strain, especially when carrying larger babies or while on long outings. If your baby is older, or if you plan to wear your baby carrier for extended periods of time, consider a baby carrier that distributes weight to the hips or evenly across the upper body.

We found more than 1,000 owner-written reviews between Amazon.com, Diapers.com and Viewpoints.com, where parents and caregivers rave about the BabyBjorn Original. Overall, it averages about 4 out of 5 stars across all sites. Parents say this carrier is easy to use and adjust, and most babies seem to enjoy riding close to the wearer. There are a few complaints about shoulder strain, especially with larger babies.

Australia’s Choice magazine recommends the BabyBjorn Active (*Est. $105), a more expensive version of the carrier that offers an adjustable lumbar support, an extra waist strap (to distribute the baby’s weight more evenly) and contoured shoulder straps for added comfort. There’s not as much consumer feedback for the Active, but nearly 200 owners posting to Amazon.com contribute to an average rating of 4 stars out of 5. Most reviewers agree that it’s easier on the back than the Original, if only marginally so. The BabyBjorn Original and Active carriers can both hold newborns, as long as they weigh at least 8 pounds and are 21 inches long (maximum weight is 25 pounds for the Original and 26 pounds for the Active).