Many people have very strong feelings about baby carriers. Studies have shown that babies have an instinctive need to be held. Consequently, babies in carriers are found to be happier than babies in seats. Happy babies mean happy parents. A baby carrier therefore is a very important part of your baby gear.
Essentially, a baby carrier is a convenient mode of transport for your baby. It is equally convenient for the parent as it leaves your hands free to carry out other tasks. There are many types of carriers, and experimenting is the only way to find out which type suits you and your baby the best.
Most new moms find baby carriers immensely useful, as this is the only way to get everyday chores done with their baby nestled safely. Carriers also are also great for when you need you to go to places where a stroller cannot be easily used, such as a crowded shopping mall. There’s a price to pay though.
Carriers mean that you have to carry your baby ALL THE TIME – in addition to any other items you may have to lug around. While this sort of exercise can work wonders for your figure, it may become slightly problematic as the baby becomes heavier and bigger.
The important criterion when you buy your baby carrier is comfort – both for you as well as the baby. The most comfortable carriers are positioned so that the baby feels like an extension of your body, rather than a heavy weight around your shoulders. How the weight is spread all the way across your back, the amount of padding in the straps and the amount of strain- all help decide the best baby carrier.
If your baby is quite heavy, a front carrier may strain your back when used for longer periods. In such a case, carry the baby on your back. Carriers that are flexible enough to allow you to experiment with multiple positions are certainly useful. After six months, these carriers still work well when your baby is ready to face the outside. You get more for your money’s worth, and the strain of carrying the baby in the same position is avoided.
There are certain safety precautions that you MUST adhere to when using a baby carrier:
- Adjust the carrier and the straps properly to ensure your baby’s safety and your comfort.
- Check all the buckles, ties and straps regularly.
- Always harness your baby securely.
Ideally, baby carriers should offer good head and neck support for the baby. Most carriers come with easy to understand instructions. Some carriers are so fashioned that you can safely slide out a sleeping infant without him or her noticing a thing. These kinds certainly have a definite edge.
The four important features of good baby carriers are: safety, versatility, ease of use and cleanability. Oh yes, this last one is a must! Go for carriers that have a lot of storage space, like pockets for mobile phones, water bottles, diapers and even loops for toys.
For many parents, baby carriers have helped keep insanity and utter chaos at bay. If purchased wisely, your baby carrier could be the best thing that happened to you, after your baby, of course!
Recent Comments