Babywearing- The Big 5

While there's hundreds of different baby carriers out there, almost all of them are some variation of the five most common types: stretchy wraps, woven wraps, meh dais, ring slings, or soft structured carriers.

Stretchy wraps are often made of snuggly soft fabrics like Modal, and wrap around baby three times to give a comfortable, close carry. These are ideal for younger babies, and often top out at around 25 lbs. We're currently carrying Solly Baby wraps, which are ethically made in the United States.

Woven wraps come in various lengths depending on the wearer's size, and the type of carry you'd like to do. They're the most versatile among carrier options, but also among the most expensive. Weight limits can depend on material and weave, but often extend to 45 lbs. We haven't decided if we're going to start carrying these or not, but we do include them in our free Intro to Babywearing class. Meh dais are traditional carriers originiating in China, which combine the versatility of wraps with the ease of a soft-structured carrier. They consist of a panel with long ties instead of straps. We carry Beachfront Baby's buckle hybrid meh dais- ethically made in the USA, and water safe. They'll safely hold baby up to 35 lbs.

Ring Slings were invented by a couple from Hawaii, and are suitably lightweight and breathable. Baby sits in the hammock made from the fabric draped over your shoulder, and the sturdy metal rings keep the material from loosening over time. WildBird's lightweight linen slings keep babies up to 35lbs safe and cool, great for New Mexican summers.

Finally, soft-structured carriers are the most grab and go of baby carriers, and can feel the most simple to use for new babywearers. The often facilitate letting baby face outward, which can be a nice perk once your little one is ready to take in more of the world around them. Lillebaby's All Seasons carrier will carry your baby up to 45 lbs, and we also carry their "Carry On" model, which will let you extend your babywearing into toddlerhood- up to 50 lbs, and designed for much taller kiddos.

If you'd like to know more about any of these carrier styles, or to try them out in person, swing by anytime, we'd be happy to help as you try them out!