Which Should You Choose, The Baby Carrier or Baby Wrap?

by Christine Duhaime

That’s it, you’ve made up your mind! You’ll be entering the wonderful world of babywearing. You’ve started shopping and discovered that there are many options for carrying your baby. But which is best? A baby wrap or a baby carrier? Chimpäroo will enlighten you with the pros and cons of each!

1. Is the baby wrap for me?

L'écharpe de portage tissée permet de faciliter l'allaitement du bébé.

The baby wrap has a lot of advantages. Let’s get started:

  • The baby wrap allows the baby to keep his back rounded, the same position as when he was just a fetus. Being in a position he’s familiar with, your baby will let go more easily.
  • Some models can be used for a very long time with a child (up to 5 years old, depending on your child’s weight).
  • It’s ideal for breastfeeding. 
  • It’s very lightweight. Stuff it in your bag and you’re all set!
  • It’s highly versatile. A baby wrap allows for more than 10 carrying positions (on the belly, hip, back, etc.). For more details on which position to use according to your needs, read our article on the topic.

The baby wrap can have its share of annoyances though, since it’s more complicated to put on. In order to safely carry your baby you’ll first need to master tying techniques. But like everything else, it can be learned and Chimpäroo’s here to help! We’ve made several demonstration videos you can watch here.

Photo: The woven sling makes it easier to breastfeed your baby.

2. Should I choose a baby carrier?

The Bambino baby carrier, ideal for young children from 12 months to 4 years

Now that we’ve seen the baby wrap’s advantages, let’s go through the baby carrier’s:

  • A baby carrier can be put on very quickly and is ideal when you’re just getting started babywearing.
  • You’re an active person and you’d like to take walks and physical activities with your baby? Many baby carriers, such as the Trek Air-O, will let you enjoy these activities confidently and comfortably. For more details on which baby carrier is best for sports, click here.
  • A baby carrier ensures a good back support for the baby as he grows up and many adjustments thanks to its available accessories. For example, the EvöAir baby carrier offers a lumbar support for your comfort, leg supports for your baby’s, and multiple other add-ons (detachable belt pocket, back panel, etc.).
  • Some models are more adaptable to weather changes thanks to their removable back panel which will let air circulate through the baby carrier to keep your baby cool in warm weather, like the EvöAir baby carrier.

As a downside, baby carriers are often more expensive than baby wraps.

Photo: The Bambino baby carrier, ideal for young children from 12 months to 4 years.

There are also more options than the baby wrap and the baby carrier, like the Snüg, a tie-free alternative for skin to skin with a newborn baby, and the Mei Tai, a compromise between baby wrap and baby carrier free of hard components and easy to carry.

A mother with her two children carrying her infant with the Ring SlingWe’re hoping these points will help you make the best choice for your needs. One thing is certain: no matter the choice you’ll make, you’ll still be enjoying the benefits of babywearing, and that’s what counts!

Do you have more questions on babywearing? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Photo: A mother with her two children carrying her infant with the Ring Sling.

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You’ll find interesting resources on our FAQ page to sharpen up your babywearing skills. If you have questions or want to submit a topic, contact us here.

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