Getting Carried Away

Many parents remember sheepishly how they thought they’d find THE ONE and ONLY baby carrier. Ever. That somehow, magically, some fantastic product would be the only carrier in our roster of baby paraphernalia.

Of course, this is as silly as thinking we’d equip ourselves with THE ONE and ONLY teething toy. Or THE ONE and ONLY body motion to get the kiddo asleep.

Not so.

The reality is this: Your choice of baby carrier depends on your lifestyle. And remember: your lifestyle changes. The baby will get older, meaning needs will change. So it's best to think of carrier shopping as tool box shopping to suit your everyday needs.

Do you take public transit? Have back problems? Expect to do a lot of housework with the wee one in tow? Want to try attachment parenting? Make a list of everything you think may affect your choice and then make a dream list of features you imagine you’ll need in a carrier.

Here are some scenarios that may help you out:

• Jill and Jack are vastly different in body size. Does that mean Jack gets to shirk responsibility in holding the bundle during shopping excursions? Nuh-uh. It just means a super adjustable Oli Golightly ring sling is the way to go.

• Jill has major back problems (chalk it up to the 9 pounder!) and Jack loves the idea of add-on accessories and storage. The solution? The Ergo Baby carrier system. Hands-free and full of add-on features.

• Jill and Jack really want to stay true to attachment parenting, especially since their newborn baby is fussy and needs a bit of extra TLC. Their choice: A cozy Mama Kangaroo Stretchy Wrap.

• Jill and Jack are heading to a wedding with the baby. Both want to rise above the “maternity chic” look while holding the baby. They nab up one of the many stylish patterns available with the Pippalilly Pouch Slings.

If you’re shopping online, feel free to call us to discuss options and features. Check out this page to see the many carriers we have in our store.

If you’re in the neighborhood, drop in and feel free to ask our staff for a demo. It’s the best way to find out what’s best for you.

Happy carrying!

Above: One of our favourites, the Beco Butterfly II.