So you've decided to wear your baby and now you need a carrier.  Take a few things into consideration when making a decision.  For example, which parent will do the most babywearing and the age of the baby.  Conveniently, most carriers will accommodate infants and toddlers alike.  This means you will certainly get your moneys worth.  Overall, you will want something that is comfortable and practical for your climate.  You really are not limited to the standard baby bears and balloons that can be found on any given baby accessory.  Have fun with it I say and make a statement or at least turn a few heads while you run all those errands!

Wraps, Mei Tai, Bjorns, and Backpacks:

 Wrap: A wrap can be best described as its very name a wrap!  Its wraps and swaddles baby in various fabrics but most often can be found as woven or stretchy.  A wrap is essentially worn wrapped around the torso and shoulders with a pocket left for baby to snuggle into.  These have long stood the test of time for their versatility.  Some people like the comfort, and secure feeling of a wrap while others find the fabric restrictive and hot. Not for warm climates! The learning curve is a bit longer with a wrap. 

 Mei Tai / Asian Baby Carriers: These are easy to figure out and can be used with infants as well as toddlers.  The design of a Mei Tai in particular is simple as it has a rectangular shaped body with four straps. Two straps extend from the top for shoulders and two more straps that come from the bottom and are usually tied similar to an apron.  This type of carrier has been used for ages in Asia and with good reason.  They can be used with baby in front, or on your back. 

Front Carrier (Bjorn/Snugli): These are ever so popular and can be spotted on any given occasion.  These types have caught on well as they are found readily at most baby stores.  They are definitely most comfortable under certain length and weight of baby.  I found them to be useful in the beginning as I was just beginning to wear my baby and was not aware of all my options.  Out of all the baby carriers this is the one that will get mention in most of the parenting guides.  In the long run, you will not get as much use out of these as compared to some of the other baby carriers.  It can be said this carrier serves its purpose in the beginning, but is a mere introduction to your options on babywearing. 

Frame Backpacks: Ok I confess...these are on the bottom of my list as they are not my favorite at all!  That said, some men do seem to prefer this type for its rugged looks.  So for that reason its nice that dad may want to share in the babywearing fun.  These do provide a birds eye view for the child, but so do others and without all the bulk.  It has less positions to offer as the child can only ride on back.  As I said, I?m clearly not a fan but I know they do serve a purpose and will get the job done.  Better to wear baby than not at all!

I can say without any hesitation that wearing my child has been a joy and has been a lifesaver on many an occasion.  It has kept me close when he needed me and these days has kept him out of trouble as a curious toddler!  No other baby gadget or must have item has done so much for our little family.