How to select baby carrier
There are a number of different type of slings and carriers available, including soft baby carriers, pouch slings and multi-way carriers. Below we talk you through the different types on offer and the typical costs of each, but before you read on, you might find out which ones parents rated as the most comfortable and easiest to use.

Multi-way baby carriers
Multi-way carriers give you three or four options for carrying your baby and are suitable from birth to 10kg (12 months), 12kg (18 months) or 14kg (toddlers) depending on the style.
Most multi-way carrier models offer three positions: carrying your baby on your front, back or in a 'nursing' position suited to breast-feeding. Four-way carriers offer an additional hip position, suitable for when your child is able to sit up by him- or herself.
Multi-way carriers offer a longer life-span than two-way models, but they tend to be more expensive than soft carriers and can take some practice to use correctly.
To make sure you and your baby are comfortable and happy, choose one of our best baby carrier.

 
Wrap sling
A piece of fabric that you wrap and tie round your body so your baby is held securely
A wrap sling is simply a piece of woven or stretchy jersey-type fabric that you wrap and tie around your body so your baby is held securely. These are suitable from birth to around two years (or up to 14 kg) .
By wrapping the fabric around the waist and shoulders, you can distribute your baby’s weight, which makes these slings comfortable to wear over long periods of time – even with a heavy toddler.
Stretchy materials make it possible to tie the wrap on first, then slip the baby into place – great for a newborn. Woven materials are better for heavier weights as they have less give and hold the toddler close to you. There are numerous different sizes, tying methods and carrying positions, and excess fabric can be used for discreet breast-feeding.
They're the most versatile but also probably the most difficult type of sling to get the hang of, so follow the instructions carefully until you're sure what you're doing.