Our advice

When choosing a baby carrier of any type, the key points to consider are safety, comfort, and ease of use.

Safety

We are pleased the Ministry of Consumer Affairs is working with other agencies to develop a standard for baby slings and hammocks. But at present, there are no specific New Zealand safety standards for baby carriers (although there are for strollers). So, what's important?

• Support: The carrier should provide support for the baby's body, head and neck. It should also hold your baby securely - that's crucial for when you want to keep your hands free, or when you need to bend down.
• Straps: With soft packs and slings worn on the front, straps should be designed to cross over at the back so they won't slip off. This also helps distribute your baby's weight evenly. Straps shouldn't be too long - if they are, they trail and get caught. A broad hip or waist strap will take some weight off your shoulders and limit sideways movement. This makes it more stable.
• Leg holes: Check the size of the leg holes. Leg holes that are too big can let babies slip through - this has been the cause of product recalls in the United States. 
• Hazards: Also make sure there are no points, sharp edges, choking hazards, small loops, clips, or buckles to trap small fingers and toes.

Comfort and ease of use

Different styles of carrier suit different body shapes and sizes. Try on a few different ones in the shop.

Can you put the carrier on and take it off easily, without assistance? Clear and concise instructions are important, especially if you haven't used one before.

• Ask for a demo: Get the shop assistant to give you a practical demonstration - carriers can take a bit of getting used to.
• Adjustments: Check how easy it is to adjust the carrier. Ideally, you should be able to adjust it to suit your size and shape and also the size of your baby. 
• Cleaning: Make sure you can wash the carrier, or that it has detachable parts that are washable.
• Test run: Take the carrier for a trial, with your baby in it. Go for a walk (including up and down stairs). Try bending down. Think about how long you'll be wearing the carrier - it's often for a surprisingly long period of time.

Other tips

• Think ahead: Planning to use the carrier for a few months? Then make sure the carrier will accommodate your baby's growth. Also think about the season you'll be using it in: lightweight carriers with a relatively open design will be more comfortable in the warmer summer months.
• Safety: Hold your baby over something soft, such as a bed, when you put them in the carrier. Check your carrier often for ripped seams, sharp edges, loose or missing buckles, snaps or rings. Check your baby can breathe freely at all times, clear of the material and wearer's body. 
• Where to buy: You'll find baby carriers in specialist baby shops, outdoor stores or Farmers. You can also buy second-hand carriers - check out Trade Me or classified ads. These may be good buys if you only need the carrier for a short period of time.