Baby Slings: Baby slings, or sling carriers, are a simple and easy way to carry a child hands free. They are the most basic child carrier available. They are similar to the front and hip carriers in the way the child is carried, but they are less elaborate. In fact they are very basic. The baby sling is worn like you would wear a satchel, it goes over one shoulder, across the body, and rests on the opposite hip. Most sling style carriers position the baby in a natural position, commonly the fetal position. This is great for the baby because it puts the least amount of stress on the back, neck, and entire body. Although, some slings do carry the child in front of the person carrying them in an upright position similar to the front carriers.

Child Carriers: Child carriers can be a very useful tool for parents. They give you the ability to take your child with you safely, while keeping your hands free for other uses. Child carriers come in many different shapes and sizes. The three most common types are framed carriers, front and hip carriers, and baby slings, which can also be referred to as sling carriers.

Framed Carriers: Framed are just like their name suggests. They are the sturdiest because of their frame. They can also be somewhat bulky, but not to an extent to where they are uncomfortable. Most of the framed carriers use an aluminum frame, so it is strong enough to carry the child and light enough that it won’t put a strain on the parent. The framed carriers attach to the parent as if they were wearing a backpack. The child is secured behind the parent, in a harness, facing forward. The harness is similar to having a soft car seat or stroller seat on your back. The framed carriers also have a hood to keep the child protected from the elements. Many framed carriers also come with extra features such as diaper bags, and water bottle holder.

Front and Hip Carriers: Front and hip carriers are child carrier that use a harness to carry the child. The front carrier is similar to wearing a backpack backwards. The child goes in the front of the person carrying them. Depending on the carrier the child could be facing forward or backwards. The hip carrier is very similar except for these the child is off to the side instead of directly in front of the person wearing the carrier. These types of carriers are not as sturdy or elaborate as the carriers, but they are a lot less bulky. One of the features that is nice about these carriers are that you can easily see the child. Whereas with the framed carriers the child is behind and cannot be seen at all times.