Wear a baby? Who ever heard of such a thing? I certainly hadn’t.

But 8 months after my little Buttercup entered my life, I not only know what baby-wearing really means; I am an absolute addict.

The term “baby wearing” is attributed to Dr. William Sears, and refers to the practice of carrying a child in a sling, which has been proven to foster a greater sense of independence in “sling babies” as they grow.

Other benefits include greater ease of breastfeeding, less crying, greater ability for the baby to interact and view the world from the adult standpoint, and of course, the chance for Mom (or Dad) to be hands-free while also sharing plenty of one-on-one time with their baby.

I previously wrote about the Moby Wrap on baby gooroo®, but wanted to follow up with my thoughts on the other slings/carriers I have tried over the past few months.

As with anything related to parenting, personal preference plays a major role in what type of sling or carrier you decide upon, but this summary may make your decision easier.

Zolowear

When it comes to wearing your baby, it can’t get any simpler than a sling. The Zolowear adjustable ring sling design is simple, strong, and adjusts to six different carrying positions from birth to around three years.

An added bonus is the tail that can be used for covering baby on sunny days or if you desire, a discreet breastfeeding session.

Since I already had a water sling (see below), I could narrow my choices between a solid cotton sling or a more sophisticated silk sling. In the end, practicality won (I live in jeans and work from home, after all) so I went with the organic cotton choice.

This is a great buy for the price, but keep in mind that the included instructional DVD is there for a reason: You actually need to watch it to learn the exact and proper positioning techniques for properly wearing the sling. Placing the ring too high or too low results in serious back and shoulder pain. But when worn correctly, the sling (which includes a zipper pocket in the tail for a diaper or keys) is a breeze to carry baby in.

Pros: Extra fabric tail covers baby when desired, easy on and off styling, adjustable for multiple users, pocket for diaper or keys, instructional DVD included.

Cons: One-shoulder styling can result in back or shoulder pain if worn incorrectly.

Dittany Baby Water Sling

Those familiar with baby-wearing know that anything that can be done (or needs to be done) usually can be done faster if they baby is attached. In my experience, this includes showering. Not only do I save time by getting both of us nice and squeaky clean at the same time, I also save on water use since I’m not filling up the tub or the sink to attend to a separate bath.

I searched high and low before finally settling on the Dittany Baby Solarveil Pouch as the best option for a little water-wearing fun. The Solarveil material is a bit on the rough side and not necessarily comfortable for everyday use, but it is perfect as a supplemental sling for water park, beach, pool, and shower use. Parents can also take comfort in the fact that baby’s delicate skin is protected from UV rays, and rejoice in the quick-drying and light-weight ease of the Dittany Baby.

Pros: Easy on and off, affordable, quick-drying, light-weight, and UV blocking material.

Cons: Material is rougher than traditional cotton slings and may not be suitable for everyday use.

Didymos Wraparound Baby Sling

The Didymos Wraparound Baby Sling is the most expensive baby carrier I have tested, but worth the money if it fits your budget. Think of it as the Cadillac version of the Moby Wrap but much more secure, as the material (which is quite beautiful) does not have the “give” associated with cotton.

Baby-wearing Mommas can use the Didymos for up to 10 different carries, which is a major bonus since many other slings/carriers on the market top out at about 5. One size does not fit all here, so be sure to order according to the largest person who will be wearing the baby. Also keep in mind that different sizes are designed to work for carrying your baby certain ways.

While expensive, the Didymos comes with a devoted following and allows for parents to continue using the wrap long after baby has outgrown it in the form of a blanket, throw, or even as a scarf.

Pros: Secure fit, non-stretch material, ability to use long after baby has outgrown carrier.

Cons: Pricey, non-stretch material, may need to buy more than one size depending on desired way to carry baby.

Mei Tai Deluxe

Hold your baby close to your heart in the Mei Tai Deluxe. The design, which is Asian-inspired, has a fold-down headrest which stays in place when not in use and wide shoulder straps for comfort.

While relatively easy to get on for front and back carrying positions, the Mei Tai is not the easiest to take off (and ties must be undone in order to get your baby out.) But then again, most who enjoy baby-wearing are into wearing their babies for long periods of time, so it all depends on your intended use.

Mei Tai’s are recommended for babies 4-5 months of age through the toddler years.

Pros: Easily packable for a family outing, machine washable (line dry).

Cons: Carrier must be undone in order to take baby out.

Baby K’tan

After my original baby-wearing post was published on the site, a few readers commented that they were in love with their Baby K’tan carriers. So I decided to try one for myself. Unfortunately, the first one that arrived (a size medium) was too big for me (I like to wear my baby snug against my body) so I gave it to my husband to try out while I waited for my x-small to arrive.

We are in love with this carrier! There is no wrapping, it can be used in 8 positions from birth to about 4 years old (or about 40 pounds), and there are no buckles, straps, or padding. And best of all, there is no back pain, thanks to the double loop design which distributes weight on both shoulders (except when worn in the hip carry).

The carrier is also machine washable and safe to throw in the dryer, which I do often when I want to make it nice and snug again.

Thanks to my baby gooroo® readers for recommending this carrier!

Pros: Washer and dryer safe, no wrapping or material touching the floor, easily packable for family outings.

Cons: Not adjustable so you need to measure for size. Ask to speak with a customer service rep online or by phone for tips on sizing.