Babies have little patience, and a hungry baby doesn’t care where you are – they want to eat. Using baby carriers for breastfeeding lets you feed your baby anytime and anywhere.
Having a baby makes even the easiest tasks seem more complicated than ever before. Heading to the grocery store takes serious planning, and if you want to spend the day out running errands, you have a lot to consider.
Using a baby carrier is one of my tricks to getting so much done around the house and balancing life with three kids. Best of all, breastfeeding in baby carrier is easier than you think.
I’ve walked around Target, Walmart, and every store in my town while nursing, and no one is the wiser. Using a carrier is a way to discreetly feed your baby while often being hands-free and getting things done.
Not all carriers are great for breastfeeding, but when you find the ones that are, it’s seriously life-changing!
Learning how to breastfeed in a carrier requires a bit of practice, but the first step is finding a carrier that works for you.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about baby carriers and breastfeeding.
Why You Need to Use a Baby Carrier
The first baby carrier I saw was a pouch sling my cousin used years ago. While it didn’t look too comfortable, I liked the idea of keeping your baby close while getting things done.
I stored away the idea until my daughter arrived, and I immediately dove into researching different baby carriers.
Using carriers have several benefits that mothers should consider.
1. Increases the Chances of Breastfeeding
Wearing your baby and keeping them close to your body increases your body’s release of oxytocin – the love hormone. Some experts say that mothers who wear their baby regularly are twice as likely to have a successful breastfeeding relationship.
Isn’t that cool?
2. Makes Skin to Skin Easier
Skin-to-skin has many benefits for babies; that’s why so many hospitals encourage mothers to spend hours doing so after birth. The benefits continue for weeks and months after birth, and wearing your baby makes it much easier to spend this time together.
3. Get More Done Hands-Free
One of the hardest adjustments I had when my daughter arrived was feeling like I wasn’t able to get the things done I wanted to do, even loading the dishwasher or getting clothes washed.
Babywearing keeps your baby in a safe, upright position and allows you to be hands-free while doing other things. At the same time, your baby is close and connected with you, so they are less likely to cry and feel upset.
Your baby is happier, and you are happy. What’s not to love about that?
Related: 117 Simple Mom Hacks to Make Life Easier
4. Lets You Breastfeed While On-The-Go
Another huge benefit of baby wearing is being able to breastfeed while on-the-go. Put your baby in the carrier and go in the store. If your baby gets hungry, feed him!
It’s really that simple.
5. Makes It Easier to Parent Your Other Kids
When my second child arrived, I saw a huge other benefit to wearing babies – it makes it easier to parent your other kid.
For example, chasing your toddler at the park becomes much easier with a small infant if you put your baby in a carrier. Parents can be present and busy with their other kids while keeping baby safe, close, and cozy.
What is a Baby Carrier for Breastfeeding?
If you try different carriers, you’ll quickly learn that not all baby carriers are created equal. Some make breastfeeding easier, while others are complicated or far from comfortable.
A baby carrier for breastfeeding is one that allows for easy, comfy nursing while wearing your baby.
Wearing a baby while nursing is helpful for mothers. Your baby is cozy in the carrier and becomes hungry. Why take them out?
These carriers give the proper support needed to keep your baby in the right positive for nursing. They also will support your baby as they grow over the first few months.
The Four Types of Baby Carriers for Breastfeeding
Carriers for babies come in different types, and not all work for all babies. Some are better for breastfeeding. Other carriers are better for newborns, and some work best for older infants.
It’s important to know all the types of carriers to pick the one that will work best for you and your needs.
1. Soft Structured Carrier – SSC
Soft structured carriers are the most popular style of infant carrier on the market, but they also work for toddlers. These carriers have structure with shoulder straps and buckles, which is why some refer to these as buckle carriers.
It takes a bit of a learning curve to breastfeed in these carriers, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it.
One of the biggest benefits of using a SSC is that it can be used from newborn stage until toddlers. Many have a weight range of 7 to 35lbs or even 45lbs!
However, they tend to be more pricier than other styles.
2. Wraps
Wraps are a long piece of fabric that parents tie in different ways around their body to hold their baby in place. This style of carrier is great for newborn babies, but if you buy a non-stretchy wrap, they work for older babies as well.
Wraps work great for breastfeeding because they’re adjustable and versatile. Plus, all of the fabric offers plenty of privacy for mothers.
Depending on the material of the wrap, they tend to be less expensive, but some cotton or bamboo blends get pricey. The biggest downside to wraps is the learning curve that comes with it for new moms.
However, once you figure out how to use them, wraps are so comfortable for parent and baby!
3. Ring Sling
Ring slings are one of the most popular types of carriers, and they’re one of the easiest to use when breastfeeding. This is the carrier I used first when I tried breastfeeding in a baby carrier!
Ring slings are made out of a woven wrap with metal rings sewn into the shoulder. Parents adjust the fabric that goes through the rings to find the best fit.
This style offers plenty of adjustability and versatility for parents. They’re great for newborns and small infants, but some styles work good for older babies.
However, a learning curve comes with this style of carrier. Be prepared to practice to get the hang of it!
4. Mei Tai
Sometimes referred to as a meh day, a Mei tai carrier has origins in China. The fabric panel looks similar to a soft-structured carrier, but the connected straps are tied around the parents’ body rather than clipped.
A Mei tai has similar benefits as a soft structured carrier, but they’re often considered more comfortable because of the lack of buckles.
However, you have to tie them in place, so learning how to do that properly takes some practice.
9 Best Baby Carriers for Breastfeeding
1. Solly Baby Wrap
If you want a carrier that works amazing in the early weeks and months, the Solly Baby Wrap is a fantastic choice.
It works for babies up to their first birthday, around 25 pounds. Solly Baby is truly for infancy.
Parents comment on how short the carrier, and how well it fits all sizes. It fits petite moms and plus-sized mamas, so don’t worry – it will work for your body type!
If you want to keep your baby close in the early days, grab a lightweight, super soft Solly Baby wrap!
Features to Consider:
- The wrap distributes your baby’s weight evenly across your upper body.
- It’s made with high-quality knit fabric.
- 5.5 yards in length
- Recognized as a hip-healthy carrier by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute
Specs:
- Newborn to 25lbs
- Machine Washable
- 100% lenzing modal fabric
2. Lillebaby Baby Carrier
If you prefer a soft structured baby carrier, the Lillebaby is a great, adjustable option. The wide, adjustable straps distribute the weight of your baby evenly across your torso, and the wide waist belt holds your baby up securely.
This carrier is meant to be one you can easily toss on and wear from newborn stage up to toddlerhood. You can wear it with your baby facing you or baby facing outward – but you obviously cannot breastfeed from that position.
You can even position the carrier slightly off to the side on your hip or on your back. Versatility abounds!
One of the unique features of the Lillebaby is the lumbar support and waist belt design. It provides stability and reduces pressure, distributing your baby’s weight evenly.
Features to Consider:
- Comes in eight colors and designs.
- The padded straps can be worn in the backpack H-style or a crossed X-style.
- Has built-in, breathable mesh to help keep both your baby and you cool.
- Comes with a sleeping hood with SPF 50+ protection.
Specs:
- 7 to 45lbs
- 100% Cotton
- Machine Washable
3. Tulababy Free to Grow
Tulababy is another popular carrier choice for parents, and the Free to Grow has a unique design that parents love.
This carrier was the first to feature an adjustable seat for babies that accommodates newborns up to toddlers, gradually widening with a series of snaps. It also has two different height settings to find the perfect fit for you and your baby.
Tulababy Free to Grow is a comfortable, non-bulky carrier made with cotton fabric to increase air flow.
The versatility of this carrier means that parents only have to buy one carrier, saving you money. It truly does adjust as your baby grows – hence the name “Free to Grow!”
Features to Consider:
- Comes with a detachable hood that snaps on for extra head support or privacy while breastfeeding.
- Promotes healthy hip and spine positions.
- The straps are padded to increase the comfort for parents, and the waist belt adjusts from 27″ to 56.”
- It’s available in different styles and designs.
Specs:
- 7 to 45lbs
- 100% Oeko-Tex Standard Cotton
- Machine Washable F
4. The Original Ergobaby
Ergobaby was the original soft structured carrier, founded in 2003. They paved the way for baby wearing to become as popular as it is now.
When it comes to a SSC, you cannot beat the Ergo baby carrier. It’s soft, comfortable, and well-designed without being too bulky.
Parents can wear their baby on their front, hip, or back. Ergobaby designed the carrier to have wide, extra-cushioned straps that won’t dig or pull on your shoulders or back. A wide waist strap gives extra lumbar support and accommodates all parent sizes.
Features to Consider:
- Comes with an attached hood for privacy or sleeping.
- Large pocket in front to the carrier to hold necessities.
- The waistband offers lumbar support for parents, along with comfortable, padded shoulder straps that distribute your baby’s weight.
- The waistband adjusts from 26″ to 52.”
- You need an infant insert to use this carrier with a newborn.
Specs:
- 12 to 45 pounds
- 100% Cotton
- Machine Washable
5. Moby Wrap Original Baby Carrier
One of the first stretchy baby wraps to hit the market was the Moby Wrap. Over a decade later, parents still love this carrier for breastfeeding.
If you want to feed in a horizontal position, Moby recommends that you remove your baby out of the wrap to nurse. The wrap itself can be left on, and your baby goes back in the carrier afterward, saving you time.
However, make sure you consider this because you aren’t supposed to truly breastfeed while keeping your baby in the wrap.
Features to Consider:
- Multiple carrying positions to try with your baby.
- The fabric is soft and durable without being too stretchy.
- It’s easy to wear and quite comfortable for both baby and the parent.
- Works from baby to toddler!
Specs:
- 8 to 35lbs
- 100% Cotton
- Machine Washable
6. Pura Vida Luxury Ring Sling
Ring slings are one of the easiest baby carriers for breastfeeding, and the Pura Vida Luxury Ring Sling is an awesome option. It’s made with 100% natural breathable fabric that keep your baby cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
The long tail provided by the Pura Vida gives mothers plenty of privacy while breastfeeding.
Features to Consider:
- Available in 20 different colored fabrics.
- The ring sling provides a naturally hip-safe position for your baby.
- Linen allows for better temperature regulation; you’ll always feel comfortable.
Specs:
- 8 to 35lbs
- Linen
- Wash in cold water in a wash bag
7. Baby K’Tan Wrap Carrier
Baby K’Tan has been around for YEARS! Parents love their products, so you can trust that these carriers work and last.
The Baby K’tan stands out because it’s a double-loop design that makes it much easier to use than traditional, long-style wraps.
Instead of figuring out how to put it around your body, slip the wrap over your body, and you’re ready to wear your baby. It slips on like a t-shirt – it doesn’t get easier than that!
Features to Consider:
- Offers five positions for parents to use while wearing their baby.
- It’s certified as a “hip-healthy” carrier by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
- An easy-to-read size chart lets you pick the right size.
Specs:
- 8 to 35lbs
- XS to XL Sizes Available
- Machine Washable Cotton
8. Kids ‘N Such 4-in-1 Ring Sling
The Kids ‘N Such is a versatile carrier that can be worn as a wrap that is tied or worn as a ring sling. Having different options allows parents to find the best and most comfortable way to wear your baby and the easiest position for breastfeeding.
Kids ‘N Such created their carrier out of breathable cotton that helps to keep you and your baby comfortable and cool.
The best way to use this carrier for breastfeeding is by off-centering the position with the rings!
Features to Consider:
- Can be worn in different positions.
- It comes with a carrier pouch.
- It’s constructed from soft, durable material.
Specs:
- 8 to 35 pounds
- Cotton
- Machine washable
9. Cuddle Bug Baby Wrap and Sling
Cuddle Bug offers an affordable baby wrap for parents. It’s a versatile, super-soft wrap that can be used for nine different styles and positions.
This wrap is quite stretchy, and it’s five yard longs, so you’ll have a lot of fabric. That can be a good thing for those who want to wrap different positions or different sized kids. However, it can be intimidating for new parents.
However, the length does give you more ways to breastfeed your baby.
Features to Consider:
- It comes in six different colors.
- Comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
- Made with a blend of French Terry cotton and spandex for the perfect blend of snug and comfortable with a bit of stretch.
Specs:
- Machine washable
- 8-36lbs
- Cotton and Spandex
How to Pick the Best Baby Carriers for Breastfeeding
As you can see, there are tons of different baby carriers for breastfeeding, and not all will work for every baby and parent. You might find that your baby prefers a different style than you!
Now that I listed some of my favorite baby carriers for breastfeeding, here are some things to keep in mind when picking the best one for you.
The Style
Start by considering the style you want; each has pros and cons.
Wraps and ring slings are ideal for newborns and small infants, but the weight of an older infant or toddler will put too much strain on your back and toddler unless you find one with more supportive fabric.
Soft structured carriers are great for all ages, even if you need to buy an insert for your infant.
Coverage and Privacy
Of course, coverage matters! The extra fabric of a ring sling makes it easy to give you coverage, while soft structured carriers might show some skin out the side.
Privacy also matters because babies often get distracted by everything around them when nursing, especially as they get older. You want them focused so they don’t spend forever nursing!
It’s also possible to use a nursing cover or a blanket, but it’s nice to have a carrier with built-in coverage and privacy.
Support Provided
Ideally, the carrier should do some of the lifting for you. The last thing you want is a carrier that pulls down on you hard while breastfeeding.
That leads to back and neck strain!
Comfortable and Breathable
It’s important for your baby (and you) to be comfortable while wearing a carrier. If it’s not, chances are it will end up in a closet, unused.
Look for a carrier that reduces the strain on your back and doesn’t pull or cut into your shoulder. If you want a soft structured carrier, it should have thickly padded shoulder straps and a wide waistband.
Weight and Age of Your Baby
Each carrier will have a specific weight range. Make sure you consider the age and weight of your baby.
If you have a newborn, most carriers can be used from 7-8lbs and up. You might have to buy a newborn insert though. Make sure you think about your baby’s weight currently.
If your child is older, then make sure the weight limit isn’t too close to their current age.
Your Budget
It’s an undeniable fact; some carriers are expensive. Thankfully, as babywearing becomes more common, we see a multitude of carriers in different price points.
Stick to your budget.
The reality is you can find something no matter how much you want to spend. Another idea is to look at buying carriers used. Many brands have dedicated resale groups!
Easy to Clean
Babies are messy; that’s just reality. They have diaper explosions and spit up regularly.
So, you want to have a carrier that is easy to clean. Make sure it’s machine washable not spot clean. You want to be able to toss it in the washing machine with ease.
4 Tips for Breastfeeding in a Baby Carrier
1. Learn Each Separately
Before you attempt to breastfeed in a carrier, I suggest you learn each separately.
In the first few weeks of your baby’s life, you’ll learn and focus on getting nursing down with your baby. You also might wear your baby in a carrier when you head to the store or get chores done around the house.
Once you feel comfortable with each thing separately, that’s when it’s time to combine and learn how to breastfeed in a carrier.
2. Know Safety for Using Baby Carriers
Safety is always a factor when baby wearing, and if you want to nurse, it’s important to know these safety tips.
- Your baby should be visible at all times. They should be close; you should be able to kiss your baby’s head. If you can’t, they’re too low in their carrier.
- Make sure their chin is never touching their chest; this cuts off their airway!
- No fabric should ever cover their face.
- Check on your baby regularly to make sure they are fine.
3. Practice at Home
Don’t try to breastfeed while baby wearing out and about the first time; practice at home. Try walking around your house or taking a walk outside while breastfeeding.
Both you and your baby will feel more comfortable with a little practice at home first.
4. Bring a Cover at First
You’ll feel even better if you bring a nursing cover or a light blanket with you to cover up. At first, you might struggle to start nursing in a carrier discreetly, but it comes with time. Bring a light cover for extra privacy, and that fixes the problem!
Using baby carriers for breastfeeding is an easy way to get things done while nursing your baby on demand. Try these best carriers for nursing to make it even easier for you!
