When considering purchasing an infant carrier, you’re going to be bombarded with tons of styles, and prices. Do you want a forward facing infant carrier, or a sling pouch? How about something that sits on your hip…or wait? What about a back carrier? And what the heck is the difference? Were going to explain to you the differences between these products, so you can make a decision that’s right for you, and your baby.

While most infant carriers share similar features, all are a variation of a theme. This theme basically “binds” an baby to mom. Even though they may share similar designs, the carriers are different in how they’re used for your baby.

Wraps distribute the weight of baby to all parts so if you’re going to be carrying your little one around for awhile, the infant wrap will allow you to do so without a sore back! Wrap slings can also vary in price depending on the brand, but you can expect to pay around thirty, to seventy dollars per sling.

A ring sling is almost the same thing as a wrap except that a ring sling incorporates rings instead of knots to secure the scarf like piece of fabric and the ring sling, like a pouch, is draped from one shoulder to the opposite hip. Ring slings often have padded edges that act as rails to ensure that the infant stays secure in the sling. The edges also act as a cushion for infants.

When purchasing a pouch carrier be careful! Many look adorable and cozy, but you’ll find your child will just feel trapped, and uncomfortable in the long run. The pouch is the perfect carrier for the parent who find themselves on-the-go and are only using it to cart their child around for a short period of time.

The last type of infant carriers is the most basic. A soft pack baby carrier is a square or rectangular piece of fabric that has four long straps that can be used to secure the infant. This carrier is the basis for many commercial brands of carriers on the market today.

The mei tai is the traditional Asian inspired rendition of a soft pack infant carrier. This simple design is great for carrying older babies and toddlers. It is also very easy to get accustomed to unlike other carriers which may require some practice and persistence. And although the soft pack carrier is a great addition to any baby wearing routine it is not as conducive for breastfeeding as others such as the sling or wrap.

All types of carriers offer parents and other caregivers the option to secure their infant into a comfortable position while keeping hands free. Using a sling or carrier for baby wearing is being proven to be beneficial for both parent and child as it helps to facilitate bonds between the two. And an infant carrier is easier to store and transport than other infant transporting devices.