Best Baby Carrier For Newborn
Looking for the best baby carrier for newborn to safely and comfortably hold your newborn baby?
Then let us help you find a newborn baby carrier you’ll love with our ultimate guide on the best baby carriers for newborns!
When you’ve just welcomed your little one to the world, you want to keep them as close to you as possible, for as long as possible.
Unfortunately, parenthood requires more than just baby snuggles!
The newborn carrier is an excellent solution.
Your little one is kept close and secure, while your hands are free for other tasks.
In this guide, we’ve taken a look at the best infant carriers for newborns, including their features, pros, and cons so you can find a infant baby carrier that best suits your needs.
And if you love this guide on the best carrier for a newborn, then you’ll love these guides on the best baby carriers for breastfeeding, baby carriers vs wraps, best baby carriers for hot weather, and how long can you carry a baby in a carrier. Or even our guide to the best baby carriers for petite moms!
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The Ergo 360 is an all in one carrier that grows with your baby from newborn to toddler (0-48 months; 7-45lbs). From forward facing in to forward facing out, hip and back carry it's hard to go past the versatility of this baby carrier!
We love it for forward facing baby wearing as it is easy to adjust and provides head & neck support for your baby. This is in additional to the padded lumbar back support and extra padded shoulder straps that provide maximum comfort.
The Omni 360 is so incredible for warm weather because it's made with soft, durable mesh fabric that keeps both you and your baby cool. It also has a detachable storage pouch and a UPF 50+ baby hood for sun protection and privacy.
List of The Top 5 Baby Carriers For Newborns
Best Baby Carrier For Newborn
1. Ergobaby Omni 360 Omni Baby Carrier
Best Overall
Babies are expensive, so you want to be sure that all you get your money’s worth from all your purchases.
You don’t have to worry with the Ergobaby Omni 360! It’s our top pick for the best baby carrier for newborn to toddler!
This baby carrier is suitable from 7lbs to 45lbs without the need for an infant insert, which means it can grow with your baby.
You can use the Ergobaby Omni 360 from week one, with a front facing carry that’s cozy and supportive for newborns.
Certified by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, the Ergobaby Omni has three seat adjustments for infants from 0-3 months, 3-9 months, and 9+ months, so you know they will get the ergonomic support they need based on their age.
Designed to fit many bodies, the Ergobaby Omni 360 has an adjustable fit across the shoulders and back.
These straps are well padded, so they feel gentle on the body, even after hours of use.
The waistband also acts as lumbar support, spreading weight evenly so you can carry comfortably for longer.
And to give parents extra peace of mind, Ergobaby have included a UPF baby hood.
This can be used on sunny days, or for breastfeeding.
There’s even a detachable pouch, for a convenient storage solution, however this is on the small side so not very functional.
Pros
- Breathable mesh – Comfortable even on warm days, with improved airflow.
- One-handed slider adjustment – When your newborn is old enough to face outwards, adjust positions with a quick slide.
- Padded lumbar back support – A versatile and supportive fit.
Cons
- Small storage pocket
- May not be suitable for petite moms
The Ergo 360 is an all in one carrier that grows with your baby from newborn to toddler (0-48 months; 7-45lbs). From forward facing in to forward facing out, hip and back carry it's hard to go past the versatility of this baby carrier!
We love it for forward facing baby wearing as it is easy to adjust and provides head & neck support for your baby. This is in additional to the padded lumbar back support and extra padded shoulder straps that provide maximum comfort.
The Omni 360 is so incredible for warm weather because it's made with soft, durable mesh fabric that keeps both you and your baby cool. It also has a detachable storage pouch and a UPF 50+ baby hood for sun protection and privacy.
2. LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons Baby Carrier
Best Versatility
The LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons Baby Carrier is an excellent choice for nearly all parents, thanks to a versatile fit to suit different frames.
With padded shoulder straps and an expandable waistband, new parents can ensure a tight hold on their baby that doesn’t compromise on comfort.
For newborns, the LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons includes a transformational carrier seat.
For those first few months, your little one can be cradled in a front fetal position.
When they get a little bigger, keep the seat narrow for a comfortable forward facing position.
And as they turn from newborn to toddler, they can be moved to hip carry, or to back carry!
Built-in head and neck support will keep your newborn secure, while the lumbar support will appeal to parents.
Even tiny newborns put strain on the back!
Designed to be used throughout the year, the front panels can be zipped down for increased airflow on warm days, and zipped up for a cozy rest on cold days.
The LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons is an adaptable and versatile choice for new parents.
Pros
- Transformational carrier seat – Cradle your newborn, and adapt the seat for a wider fit as they grow.
- Zip front panels – Control the temperature with removable panels.
- Lumbar support – Extra support for parents.
Cons
- The mesh interior can be a little rough on delicate skin.
The LÍLLÉbaby Complete baby carrier is a certified “hip-friendly” carrier that features 6 ergonomic carry styles!
The positions include fetal position, front carrying inward, front carrying outward, hip carry, and back carry. The hip carry position is fantastic if you breastfeed your older infant or toddler; it’s pretty comfortable!
It's ideal for both newborns and toddlers as it can be used from 7 to 45 pounds without the use of an infant insert.
You’ll love detachable lumbar support pillow and versatile shoulder straps that can be worn in the classic H-style or X-style.
Other great features include the zip down panel which reveals a breathable mesh as well as the large storage pocket.
This Lillebaby carrier is also made from 100% cotton, and it’s machine-washable.
3. Baby K’tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier
Best Wrap Carrier
Baby wrap carriers are fantastic for newborn babies, mimicking that feeling of being in the womb.
But as much as we love a wrap, they typically come with a steep learning curve.
Not with the Baby K’tan Original! This is a warp designed for easy use, allowing you to cradle your newborn with less fuss.
The Baby K’tan is a no-wrap wrap. Instead of struggling with buckles and rings, simply pull the wrap over your head, as you would a t-shirt.
The double loop design stretches to hold the baby comfortably, while keeping a close fit to the body.
A one way stretch ensures once your little one is secure, the wrap won’t move.
The unique shaping also supports breastfeeding on the go.
Made from 100% cotton, the Baby K’tan Original is soft to the touch and breathable.
Air can circulate through the natural fabric, keeping you and your newborn at the right temperature.
The baby K’tan original can cradle your newborn in a sling hold, and adjust to a seated carrier as they grow.
Pros
- Pull on design – No more struggling with rings and buckles, simply pull the wrap over your head.
- Machine washable – Cleans quickly and easily.
- Double loop design – Keep a secure hold on your newborn.
Cons
- The K’tan is available in different sizes, and you’ll need an accurate fit for comfortable support. So, you may need to buy multiple, to fit different caregivers.
The Baby K'tan baby wrap is quick and easy to wear - no rings, belts, buckles or excess fabric. This infant carrier is the no-wrap wrap! Just slip the sling over your head like a t-shirt. This is great as it means you don't have to spend too much time learning how to use it!
Made from 100% cotton, this baby carrier allows even weight distribution and the breathable fabric is soft against baby skin.
It comes in multiple sizes from xx-small to x-large making it a great baby carrier for petite moms & plus size moms!
4. Infantino Flip Advanced 4-In-1 Carrier
Best Budget Choice
A good baby product doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, as the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier proves!
This is a budget baby carrier with a quality performance that parents love.
A 4-in-1 carrier, the Infantino can be adjusted to provide extra comfort and support for parents and babies.
Newborns can be comfortably cradled in the front-facing seat, with a folded seat keeping them tucked in close.
For parents, the Infantino has adjustable padded shoulder straps.
These sit nicely on the shoulders, and can be altered to suit different body types.
Infantino has also included a waist belt, which helps distribute weight evenly, and prevent strain.
As a budget buy, the Infantino doesn’t have quite the same amount of padding you might find in luxury carriers.
But it does mean the Infantino is machine washable, for added convenience.
Overall, the Infantino is a supportive and convenient baby carrier that is excellent for newborns, but might need replacing by the toddler years!
Pros
- Adjustable seat – Find the perfect position for your newborn.
- Supportive waist belt – Distributes weight for a more comfortable fit.
- Adjustable shoulder straps – Fits more body types.
Cons
- Lacks the durability of premium designs, so might need replacing sooner.
5. BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Mini
Best For Newborns Up to 12 months
The first few weeks with your newborn are wonderful, but also incredibly stressful.
The last thing you want to worry about is a complex baby carrier that requires an engineering degree to understand.
This is why we love the BabyBjorn mini baby carrier!
It’s simple to use straight from the box, so you can immediately get your little one secure.
Safe to use from 7lbs to 24lbs, the BabyBjorn mini doesn’t require a newborn insert.
You simply need to lift your baby in, and snuggle them close to you.
For newborns between 7 and 10 lbs, use the leg straps to create a super secure fit.
Created from 3D mesh, 3D jersey, and cotton, the BabyBjorn mini is soft to the touch while providing excellent support.
The carrier hugs the hips, legs, head, and back, and you can check the position through the fabric.
It’s flexible yet supportive, so you can get the fit just right.
Sleek and streamlined, the BabyBjorn baby carrier mini isn’t as bulky as similar designs, and the breathable fabrics ensure parent and baby are comfortable even on hot days.
But you’ll be sad when your little one grows out of the BabyBjorn mini, which, unfortunately, can happen surprisingly quickly.
Pros
- Simple buckle opening – Get the carrier on and off with no hassle.
- 3D mesh, 3D jersey, and cotton build – Lightweight and breathable with added support.
- Adjustable support for newborns – Ensure the fit is just right.
Cons
- With an upper weight limit of 24lbs, babies outgrow this carrier reasonably quickly.
Buyer’s Guide on the Best infant Carriers for Newborns
Once your little one has been welcomed to the world, you probably want to sit around and soak up just how amazing they are. That, and get lots and lots of sleep.
What you don’t want to be doing is messing around with a complex baby carrier that you’re not sure is quite right.
Maybe you just can’t get it on, or you’ve just realized you needed to buy a separate newborn insert.
There are many reasons why even a good baby carrier might not suit you and your newborn.
In this guide, we’ve taken a look at the key features you must consider before buying a newborn carrier.
We hope it will ensure those first few months are filled with more joy, and less stress!
Newborn Safe
For a baby carrier to be safe for a newborn, it has to offer them support in all the right places.
That means the head, neck, back, hips, and legs.
Your baby should be properly supported, so they can rest comfortably in the carrier.
Many baby carriers come ready for newborns, and can be used right away.
But others will require an insert to adjust the space for your new arrival.
Some newborn safe carriers will also need minor adjustments before they can be used.
You might need to move the seat, or change the strapping, for the most secure position.
Size And Weight Limit
Baby carriers come with a minimum and maximum weight limit.
For most newborn safe carriers, the minimum weight limit will be around 7 or 8lbs.
If the minimum limit is above this, the carrier is unlikely to be safe for a newborn.
It’s also worth paying attention to the maximum weight limit, although it might not seem very important at that moment.
The maximum weight limit tells you how long you can use the carrier for.
If you hope to get several years of use out of the carrier, then you will want to invest in a design with a high upper weight limit.
Type Of Carrier
There are several types of baby carrier that are suitable for newborns.
When making your choice, consider what design will work best for your lifestyle.
Baby Wrap Carrier
A traditional method for carrying a baby, the wrap is, essentially, a long piece of fabric that’s wrapped around the body to hold the baby close.
Wrap carriers are soft, flexible, and easy to clean.
They’re great for using around the home, and for short trips. However, they can be complicated to configure.
Soft-Structured Baby Carrie
With more structure than the wrap, the soft-structure baby carrier uses padding to create a cozy space, and belts and straps for an adjustable fit.
They distribute weight well, so you can use the carrier comfortably for longer.
Structure Baby Carrier
Extra padding and a built-in frame make the structured baby carrier an excellent choice for long days out and hiking trips.
However, structured carriers tend to be worn on the back, so are rarely suitable for newborns.
Inward Facing Seat
The safest way to carry a newborn is facing inwards, on your front.
This position supports their neck and back, and keeps them cuddled up close to their caregiver.
Your newborn baby should be within kissing distance!
Adjustable Positions
The inward facing seat position is a must for a newborn baby carrier, but you may want a design with a little more versatility.
Once your child is old enough to hold their head up comfortably, you can switch them to a front-facing hold, hip carrying, or back carrying.
These different positions are incredibly useful for older children, so if you plan on using the carrier for a while, consider the carry options it offers.
Parent Fit
Your newborn isn’t the only person using the carrier — it should be as comfortable for the wearer as it is for the baby!
Shoulder straps and waist straps that can be adjusted and altered are useful for creating a good fit.
This does more than make the carrier comfortable, as the right fit will hold your newborn correctly, and avoid giving them too little, or too much, space.
Even if you do choose an adjustable carrier, be aware that no model is suitable for all body types.
The length of the baby carrier can greatly affect the fit, so shorter and taller parents should note this feature.
Lumbar Support
Newborn babies seem so small in their bassinet, but when you’ve been carrying one around for a while, you will start to feel the weight.
Lumbar support helps to distribute this weight across your back.
If you do struggle with back problems, then lumbar support should be a top consideration.
Care And Cleaning
Wrap carriers and soft-structured carriers are typically machine washable, so you can quickly deal with spit ups and blowouts and all the other messes we associate with babies.
But it’s important to check the washing instructions before you start cleaning, or you can shrink your carrier.
Easy Use
Baby carriers can be surprisingly complex, particularly if you’re dealing with a case of baby brain.
For a newborn, a carrier doesn’t have to be confusing. Look for a design that’s easy to pull on and off.
If you have bought a slightly complex baby carrier, then there’s no need to panic.
Simply practice taking it on and off a few times, to get used to the method.
Use a stuffed animal in place of your baby, so you can really get a feel for the system.
FAQs on infant carriers for newborns
Yes, there are baby carriers that are safe to use from birth.
These are parent facing carriers that support the neck, back, and head of the baby.
While some baby carriers can be used for a newborn as-is, others require an additional newborn insert.
However, not all baby carriers are safe for newborns.
Be sure to check the age and size restrictions before buying.
A baby can face forward in a baby carrier when they’re able to hold their head up without support.
This typically happens when they’re around 4 to 6 months old.
Consult with your pediatrician, before making the switch.
All newborns should use the carrier facing toward their parents, so the neck is supported.
Check the carrier is safe in a parent facing position before using it.
The best baby carriers for newborns provide a safe, secure, and comfortable space for them to rest.
We recommend the Ergobaby Omni 360 for optimal performance, but we also love the LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons and the BabyBJorn Mini.
For a wrap style newborn carrier, we recommend the Baby K’tan Original.
Parents on a budget should check out the Infantino Flip Advanced.
Final Thoughts on the best baby carriers for newborn
We love the ErgoBaby Omni 360, which keeps your little one snuggled up against you as a newborn all the way through to toddlerhood.
But there are many great baby carriers that are suitable for infants.
We hope this guide has helped you find the right infant carrier, so you can enjoy more time spent cuddling your little one (and less time struggling with straps, buckles, and inserts).
And if you love this best carrier for newborn baby, make sure to check out our other babywearing guide on when can my baby face forward in a carrier. Or even our guide on the best plus size baby carrier, best baby carriers for big dads, best baby carriers for hot weather, and Baby Bjorn vs Ergo baby carrier!
