Baby carriers and slings: Choosing a sling or baby carrier Slings and soft carriers

To read more details about the different types of sling and carrier and who they will suit most visit our features explained page.

Pouch sling  

A piece of fabric sewn together at the ends and folded to form a pocket. They go over one shoulder like a sash, and the baby sits in the pouch on the front or back.

• Suitable: from birth to around two years, or up to 14 kg
• Typical prices: from £15.50

Ring sling

A piece of fabric which threads through two rings, forming a loop. The sling goes over one shoulder and is fastened by pulling the fabric through the rings. Once you've mastered how to adjust the rings and thread the fabric through, these are among the easiest slings to use.

• Suitable: from birth to around two years, or up to 14 kg
• Typical prices: around £30-£60

Wrap sling 

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. 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.

• Suitable: from birth to around two years, or up to 14 kg
• Typical prices: around £40-£50

Bag-style slings

In March 2010, baby company Infantino recalled two bag-style baby slings – the SlingRider and Wendy Bellissimo sling – following three infant deaths in the US. 

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is currently investigating a further 11 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers from the past 20 years. 

Go to our baby sling safety page for more information on how to wear a baby sling properly.

Soft baby carriers

Soft baby carriers are the simplest, most widely available type of carrier. 

Most are two-way carriers: you can carry your baby facing you (most suited to very young babies) or facing outwards (which is only appropriate when the baby is already able to support the weight of her own head).

• Suitable: from birth to 15 months
• Typical prices: from £20-£50

Multi-way baby carriers

Most multi-way carrier models offer three positions: carrying your baby on your front, at the back or in a 'nursing' position suited to breastfeeding. Four-way carriers offer an additional hip position, suitable for when your child is able to sit up by him- or herself.

• Suitable: from birth to 12 months (about 10kg), 18 months (about 12kg) or toddlers (up to 14kg)
• Typical prices: from around £40-£100

 Next: take a closer look at baby backpacks and hip belts.