11 of the best baby carriers tried and tested by parents

A baby carrier is a brilliant way to keep your baby close and secure while keeping your hands free. Unlike baby slings and wraps, which are made from fabric that wraps and ties around your body, baby carriers are more structured and usually fasten with buckles and clips.

• Jump to our list of the best baby carriers

There’s a huge range of styles to choose from, depending on how you want to carry your baby and how long you want to use the carrier for. Some are suitable from birth, while others are better for older babies, toddlers or even bigger children on longer adventures.

To compile this list, we tested a range of carriers with our parent testers and their babies, as well as consulting babywearing experts and midwives for their advice. We also compared the carriers for comfort, support, ease of use, features and value for money to find options for a range of families and budgets.

Best baby carriers at a glance

• Best baby carrier for parents of different sizes: Ergobaby Omni Breeze Baby Carrier, £184.90 at Boots
• Best newborn baby carrier: Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier, £99.99 £88 at Amazon (Save £11 or 12%)
• Best baby carrier for back support: BabyBjörn Harmony Baby Carrier, £208.90 £150.93 at Mamas&Papas (Save £57.97 or 28%)
• Best multi-use baby carrier: Ickle Bubba Seren, £59 at Ickle Bubba
• Best compact baby carrier: Integra Baby Carrier, from £85 at Integra Baby
• Best baby carrier for parent-facing: Baby Tula Free to Grow Baby Carrier, £139 at Tula
• Best baby carrier for adjustability: Infantino Hug & Cuddle Adjustable Hybrid Wrap baby carrier, £44.99 at Amazon
• Best lightweight baby carrier: Izmi Breeze Baby Carrier, £89 at Izmi
• Best eco-friendly baby carrier: Mamaruga Zebulo, £150 at Mamaruga
• Best carrier for toddlers: Izmi Breeze Adventure Toddler Carrier, £99 at Izmi
• Best baby carrier for hiking: Babymoov Moov & Hike carrier, £209 at Amazon

• Jump to our reviews of the best baby carriers
• Compare the best baby carriers
• Jump to what to look for when choosing a baby carrier
• Jump to alternatives to a baby carrier
• Jump to how to wear a baby carrier safely

Here are the best baby carriers tried and tested by parents

Ergobaby Omni Breeze Baby Carrier, from £184.90

Best for: parents of different sizes

Why we chose it: This is one of the most versatile carriers on our list, with a great fit range, four carry positions, strong support and excellent breathability from newborn through to toddlerhood.

The carrier makes your baby feel almost weightless, plus it adapts to you and your baby’s shape; the functionality is super and it’s a breeze to put on and adjust. From teething solutions and breastfeeding privacy to being seen in the dark, the designers have thought of everything and more with the Breeze.

What we like

• Comfortable and supportive for both baby and wearer
• Works well for parents of different sizes
• Four carrying positions
• Breathable SoftFlex Mesh fabric is great in warmer weather
• Useful extras including privacy hood and detachable front pocket

What to keep in mind

• It’s one of the pricier carriers here

"This has actually blown my mind!" was the reaction of one of our parent testers, who was especially impressed with the Omni Breeze’s comfort and features. According to Ergobaby, the SoftFlex Mesh fabric delivers maximum airflow and is 50% cooler than comparable mesh carriers, making it a strong choice for warmer days.

For those wanting a hardworking carrier that can be shared easily between adults and used for years, this is the standout all-rounder. It offers strong lumbar support, great outward-facing support and simple adjustability around the head and neck.

Read our full MadeForMums Ergobaby Omni Breeze baby carrier review

Available from: Boots and Amazon

Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier, £99.99

Best for: newborns

Why we chose it: Soft, lightweight and simple to use, this is a lovely pick for the early newborn months.

It’s adjustable to suit all shapes. There is a good length on the straps to suit larger people. I also like that there is elastic on the straps to tuck in and secure the length not being used.

What we like

• Good for very small babies
• Soft fabric that moulds to your baby
• Lightweight and simple design

What to keep in mind

• Doesn’t have a very long lifespan
• Only offers 2 carrying positions
• Some parents may want help fastening it at first

Available in a soft jersey knit or cool mesh, the Ergobaby Embrace is ideal for the fourth trimester when you may be wearing your baby every day. It has just three clips, making it less intimidating than some more structured options.

Both parent tester Laura and her husband found it easy to use, though she noted that an extra pair of hands could help in the beginning. If your priority is a snug, comfy newborn carrier rather than something that lasts into later toddlerhood, this is a great choice.

Read our full MadeForMums Ergobaby Embrace baby carrier review

Available from: Mamas and Papas, Kiddies Kingdom, Amazon and Ergobaby

BabyBjörn Harmony Baby Carrier, £208.90

Best for: back support

Why we chose it: With padded straps, a supportive waist panel and strong lumbar support, this is a comfortable choice for longer babywearing sessions.

The weight distribution and padded back support made this carrier really comfortable to use even over long periods of time.

What we like

• Excellent back support
• Premium breathable fabric
• Grows with your baby
• Four carrying positions

What to keep in mind

• High price point

The BabyBjörn Harmony has been carefully designed for hip health, with a wide seat and adjustable head support for little babies. It’s easy to adjust as your child grows, and the apron design with front clips makes getting your baby in and out simpler too.

This is a premium pick, but if support and comfort are top priorities, it makes a strong case for the spend. It’s especially good for parents who wear their baby for longer stretches.

Read our full MadeForMums BabyBjorn Harmony baby carrier review

Available from: BabyBjorn, Mamas & Papas and Amazon

Ickle Bubba Seren, £59

Best for: multi-use value

Why we chose it: For the price, this offers a lot: three carry positions, a lightweight feel and a comfortable fit for everyday use.

The Ickle Bubba Seren is a strong all-round carrier. It feels lightweight but sturdy, with padded straps that distribute weight well across shoulders and back — meaning I could wear it for both quick errands and longer stretches without discomfort.

What we like

• Lightweight and compact
• Comfortable for wearer and baby
• Three carry positions
• Easy-to-adjust buckles

What to keep in mind

• Fewer style options than some rivals
• Handwash only
• Knit fabric may feel hot in warmer weather

The Seren is a good-value all-rounder that works well for shorter trips and longer walks alike. Reviewer Donna found it supportive, practical and comfortable, and liked that her baby was happy enough to sleep in it.

If you want flexibility without paying premium-carrier prices, this is a very solid middle-ground choice.

Read the full Ickle Bubba Seren 3-in-1 baby carrier review

Available from: Ickle Bubba and Amazon

Integra Baby Carrier, from £95

Best for: compact storage

Why we chose it: Compact, supportive and long-lasting, this is a handy carrier for parents who want something less bulky.

The material is beautifully soft and lovely on baby’s skin. The instruction manual is amazing – very detailed with proper photos of a mum and baby attaching the carrier on herself with explanations as you go along!

What we like

• Compact and supportive design
• Good value
• Modern prints
• Comes in different sizes for longevity

What to keep in mind

• It may not suit every body shape

Sling expert Hannah Wallace praised the Integra for having “all the feel of a wrap, but was much easier to use”, which helps explain why it remains a popular option. Parent tester Paul also liked its quality and modern design.

If you want a carrier that takes up less room in your changing bag or buggy basket but still offers good support, this is well worth a look.

Read our full MadeForMums Integra Baby Carrier review

Available from: Integra Baby and Babi Pur

Baby Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier, £139

Best for: parent-facing carrying

Why we chose it: If you mainly want a comfortable, supportive parent-facing carrier without extra complexity, this is a strong option.

I love the fact it’s durable and it will be long-lasting. Although functionality-wise it ticks all the boxes, it’s also quite stylish with its abstract print.

What we like

• Great for bonding and closeness
• Simple design
• Supportive and comfortable
• Lots of prints available

What to keep in mind

• No forward-facing option
• Only 2 carrying positions

This carrier has impressed our testers with its comfort and ease of use. It distributes weight evenly, which helps reduce backache, and has an adjustable panel that grows with your baby into the toddler years.

It doesn’t offer as many positions as some carriers, but for parents who mainly want a really good ergonomic parent-facing carry, that simplicity may actually be part of the appeal.

Read our full MadeForMums Baby Tula Free to Grow baby carrier review

Available from: Tula

Infantino Hug & Cuddle Adjustable Hybrid Wrap baby carrier, £54.99

Best for: adjustability

Why we chose it: This hybrid design blends some of the softness of a wrap with the simplicity of a structured carrier, making it easy to tweak for a close fit.

This carrier takes elements from both structured baby carriers and fabric wraps to create a baby carrier that is easy to put on and adjust, comfortable to wear and is ergonomic. In my mind, it encompasses the best of both worlds, being quite stylish in appearance, while enabling me to carry my baby close and securely – exactly like a hug.

What we like

• Easy to adjust
• Comfortable to wear
• Good for newborns
• Easy to clean

What to keep in mind

• Only offers parent-facing carrying
• Not as sturdy as some structured carriers
• More limited in how long you can use it

This is a good-value option for parents who want something simple, soft-feeling and easy to fit around a little baby. Helen found it especially good at holding baby close and snug.

It won’t replace a more substantial carrier for long-term use, but for the newborn months it offers a reassuringly cosy carry.

Read the full MadeForMums Infantino Hug & Cuddle Adjustable Hybrid Wrap baby carrier review

Available from: Amazon and BabyCity

Izmi Breeze Baby Carrier, £89

Best for: lightweight everyday use

Why we chose it: Ultra-light and breathable, this is a brilliant carrier for warmer weather and parents who don’t want lots of bulk.

What I really liked on the whole about this product was how much care has gone into its design. Every detail has been designed with both the parent and child in mind, with elements such as the mesh panels and wide shoulder straps thoughtfully implemented to ensure a comfortable experience for both of you.

What we like

• Very lightweight at 480g
• Breathable mesh panel helps keep both of you cool
• Packs down small for days out
• Offers four carrying positions

What to keep in mind

• Limited colour choice
• Mesh may need extra layers in colder weather

The Izmi Breeze is one of the best options here for summer babywearing. Reviewer Katie found the mesh fabric genuinely helped both of them stay cool, and also felt reassured by the head support when carrying her small baby.

It’s a very practical carrier for everyday life, especially if you like something supportive but not bulky.

Read the full MadeForMums Izmi Breeze baby carrier review

Available from: Izmi

Mamaruga Zebulo, £150

Best for: eco-conscious families

Why we chose it: Made from 100% organic natural fabrics and designed with comfort, support and inclusive fit in mind, this is a standout sustainable choice.

The straps on the Zebulo are very wide which provides solid support. I also think the crossed straps when front wearing help to protect your back and makes it feel more comfortable that other carriers.

What we like

• Ethically made
• Organic fabrics
• Comfortable for parent and baby
• Inclusive fit range
• Fun patterns

What to keep in mind

• On the pricier side
• No world-facing option
• Can take practice to master

Run by two mums and babywearers, Mamaruga has created a carrier that feels well thought through and comfortable for a range of body types. Parent tester Beth found it worked just as well for her petite frame as it did for her 6ft husband, which adds to its appeal for shared use.

It may not be the easiest carrier to get the hang of straight away, but once adjusted properly it offers an ergonomic and comfortable carry that should last from newborn days through the toddler years.

Available from: Mamaruga

Izmi Breeze Adventure Toddler Carrier, £99

Best for: toddlers and older children

Why we chose it: This is a rare carrier that works well beyond babyhood, making it a smart option for parents still carrying toddlers regularly.

If you’re a toddler parent looking to buy once and buy well, you can't really go wrong with the Izmi Breeze Adventure Toddler carrier. The breathable mesh and soft cotton design mean that it is both practical and portable, with enough flexibility for everything from quick school runs to full days out.

What we like

• Long lifespan up to around 6 years
• Great weight distribution
• Breathable mesh design
• Compact enough for days out
• Free 1-to-1 fit check and aftercare support

What to keep in mind

• Not suitable under 12 months
• Limited colours and designs

This carrier proves that babywearing doesn’t have to stop once your child is walking. Reviewer Sophie found it comfortable enough for full days out and even tested it with a friend’s 5 year old.

For parents who want a practical, supportive way to carry bigger children on tired legs days, this is a very useful specialist option.

Read out full MadeForMums Izmi Breeze Adventure Toddler Carrier review

Available from: Izmi

Babymoov Moov & Hike carrier, £209

Best for: hiking and outdoor adventures with toddlers and older children

Why we chose it: This structured hiking carrier is built for longer walks, heavier toddlers and proper outdoor adventures, with strong support, clever storage and a stable loading stand.

It is a stylish yet practical and well-designed hiking carrier that balances comfort, storage and adjustability well, plus the lifetime guarantee adds reassurance for families planning to use it for several years.

What we like

• Fully adjustable, ergonomic design
• Supportive cushioning with breathable materials
• Includes a UV and water-repellent sunshade
• Handy PopStand foot folding system makes loading easier
• Generous built-in storage including detachable 10L bag

What to keep in mind

• Does not fold down particularly compactly for storage
• Back-carry position only
• Can be tricky to put on solo with a heavier child or when fully loaded

Unlike soft structured carriers for everyday errands, the Babymoov Moov & Hike is designed for longer outdoor use with older babies and toddlers. Reviewer Yvette found the weight felt evenly distributed, the mesh back panel supportive and the adjustable seat comfortable enough for her daughter to nap in mid-walk.

The QuickFit system, six-position back length adjustment and load-retaining straps make it especially useful for parents of different sizes. It also stands out for practicality, with built-in storage, an insulated pocket, hidden water bladder compartment and a fold-out UV and water-repellent sunshade.

This is a more specialist buy than the other carriers here, but for outdoorsy families who love hikes, country walks and longer days out, it looks like a very strong investment.

Read the full MadeForMums Babymoov Moov & Hike baby carrier review

Available from: Babymoov and Amazon

Compare the best baby carriers

What to look for when choosing a baby carrier

Sling and carrier expert Hannah Wallace, owner of Wear My Baby, shares her top advice on choosing the right carrier for your family.

Get the right size: Choosing a baby carrier is a lot like choosing jeans, shoes or a bra – how it fits depends on both your body shape and what feels comfortable for you. If you can, try on a few styles before buying.

Get the right fit: How a carrier is fitted matters just as much as which one you choose. Even an expensive carrier can feel uncomfortable or be used unsafely if it isn’t adjusted properly. Carrier shops, sling libraries and babywearing experts can help.

Think about carrying positions: Some carriers offer front inward, front outward, hip and back carrying, while others are more specialist. Outward-facing carrying can work well for some babies from around 4 months, but it should only be used for short periods and never when your baby is asleep.

Check cleaning instructions: Baby carriers get a lot of use and can quickly get dribbled, chewed or spilled on, so it’s worth looking for machine-washable fabrics where possible.

Consider value rather than just price: Many carriers sit around the £130 to £150 mark, but cheaper options can still perform well. The most important thing is choosing a carrier that fits you properly and feels easy to use.

What are the alternatives to a baby carrier?

If you’d prefer a soft stretchy option for a newborn, see our guide to the best baby wraps and slings. These don’t usually have clips or buckles and need to be tied securely, so they can take a little more practice.

If you want something for older babies on bigger outings, backpack carriers are another great option. These are usually suitable once your baby can sit up unaided and are especially useful for walks where a buggy would struggle.

How to wear a baby carrier safely

Babies should always be carried upright: This keeps their airways open and clear. Babies should never be carried in a lying-down cradle position.

Make sure the carrier is well tightened: Your baby should not be able to slump inside it. If the carrier is too loose, their chin can drop onto their chest and affect their breathing.

Make sure it’s adjusted correctly: If your carrier has an adjustable seat or panel, check that it’s set correctly for your baby’s age and size. If in doubt, follow the instruction manual.

Make sure you can always see your baby’s face: Your baby should sit high enough on your chest that you can easily kiss the top of their head.

Make sure their legs are positioned correctly: The IHDI (International Hip Dysplasia Institute) recommends carrying babies with their hips in a natural "M" position during the first 6 months.

Don’t let your baby overheat: As a rough guide, your body counts as one layer, the carrier as another, and warm weather as another again, so dress your baby accordingly.

Remember the T.I.C.K.S. guide to babywearing safety: Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off the chest, Supported back.

Read more

• What you need to know before buying a baby carrier
• Hip dysplasia and carriers: what you need to know
• 10 of the best baby slings and wraps