Types of carriers
There are many different types of baby carriers, and they all have their good points.
Pouch – this type of carrier is a tube of fabric that is folded in half to form a pouch. The pouch is not very adjustable, although there is a degree of flexibility to it. This is a good carrier for newborns or a toddler hip carry.
Ring sling – these are the carriers with a length of fabric attached to two rings. The rings are threaded through the fabric to form a pouch and then the size can be adjusted by pulling the fabric further through the rings. These are good beginner carriers and are very adjustable (making it easy to share with a spouse).
Mei Tai – a Mei Tai looks like a square of fabric with long straps that extend from each corner. This is worn by tying the straps in various ways so that a baby can be held in many different positions. This is a great way to quickly put baby in a back carry for a run into the store.
Wrap – this is a length of fabric that is used to tie baby directly onto the body. The wrap is super versatile and can be worn so that both shoulders share the work load. Wraps are a little more advanced, but definitely worth the time spent practicing on the bed.
Rebozo – is the smaller sister of the wrap. This is a length of fabric that is shorter than a wrap and used much like a ring sling… it’s just tied together rather than being held by rings. It’s not very quick to adjust, but it’s great for just a quick one-shoulder back carry.
