Best baby hip carriers for safety and comfort so you can carry your little one in style

Selection of hip carriers

by Laura Healy |
Updated on

Carrying your little one on your hip is something we have all done, but it isn't always good for us which is why a baby hip carrier is a great idea to take the strain off your back. Plus, constantly strapping a baby, or toddler, into and out of a baby carrier is a lot of effort, so a hip carrier provides the freedom they crave and the support you need.

Best at a glance:

  • Best overall baby hip carrier: Hippychick Hipseat Baby Carrier, buy on Amazon

  • Best c-section friendly hip carrier: Momcozy CPC-Certified Baby Hip Carrier, buy on Amazon

  • Best hip carrier with a safety strap: Baby Hip Seat Carrier with Safety Belt, buy on Amazon

  • Best multifunction hip carrier: Bellababy Multifunction Baby Carrier Hip Seat, buy on Amazon

For older babies and toddlers who like the independence of walking but can't walk far and need to be carried part of the way, you can find yourself twisting your back to stick out your hip and carry them when they get tired, only minutes later for them to say they want to walk again. Sarah Campus, a women's personal trainer, Nutrition Coach, mum of 3 and founder of holistic wellness platform LDN MUMS FITNESS, says, "Back strain can be caused from lifting and carrying a baby or toddler on a daily basis. As you lift a toddler, the pressure on your spinal discs multiples to three to ten times the weight of your child and puts pressure on your back. It can twist your spine if you don’t hold your child in the right position. It is best to have two feet apart, hips as stable as possible and try not to stick one hip out as then you can twist your spine."

Or, perhaps, your little one wants to sit in the buggy or pushchair, then climb in and out all the way down the road, which can be frustrating and lengthen your journey. If you are wearing a hip carrier, you can scoop them up and they can rest before being easily let down.

Around the house a baby hip carrier will also come in useful because while you are trying to do jobs often your little one wants you to hold them too. While you do still need to hold onto them when using a hip carrier, it will still help you protect your back while pottering around the house with a little one in tow.

Essentially, a hip carrier is like a large, wide belt with a seat attached, which is normally padded for comfort. It should have an adjustable waistband making it easy to put on and take off. When you stick your hip out to carry a child, it can cause you to twist your spine, but wearing a hip carrier should prevent that and it will be more comfortable and secure for your little one too.

With hip carriers coming in a range of colours, and also with added features such as pockets for keys and phones, they are increasingly popular with parents when at home and out and about.

How we chose the best hip carriers

Our Mother&Baby awards are renowned in the industry for being one of the most highly respected product awards for baby and parenting products, and every year, we arrange for thousands of independent mum reviewers to test the latest products on the market.

Awards testers are asked to score the product they are reviewing in four areas: usability, design, quality and value for money. Each product is scored out of 10 with each of these areas in mind, and the final score determines which products make the coveted bronze, silver and gold spots in that product category.

Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.

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Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account in our testing process.

Best baby hip carriers 2024

Best overall baby hip carrier

Ideal for carrying babies and toddlers from 6 months to 3 years, the Hippychick Hipseat is a stylish option for parents who want to support their back but also keep their little one close. Designed in a lovely denim effect fabric, it features a padded seat with a non-slip pad to ensure great comfort for your baby. By wearing this comfortable hip carrier, it will keep your spine straight by supporting little one's weight from underneath and it has been endorsed by osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists. One reviewer said it's a, "great product, supports the back well therefore so much easier to carry baby around. Also fits small waist size."

For days out, or days at home, it is a great solution for easy hopping on and hopping off, plus it helps to keep your child close to you, even when they crave independence (but their legs get a bit tired every so often). With a wide waistband it is comfortable to wear and easy to adjust, however, it is not suitable for extended periods of carrying. There are additional accessories you can purchase such as an extension belt and travel pouch. One mum reviewer commented, "I came across Hippychick seats at a National Trust property. I really like it, it is sturdy and really takes the weight off your arms when carrying the baby. I have used it in the house as well when she won't be put down and I need to crack on with dinner. It is great for short distances when used outside but I don't find it comfortable for using for extended periods. It has been really handy though."

Pros

  • Padded seat with non-slip fabric
  • Wide, adjustable waistband

Cons

  • Uncomfortable to wear for extended periods
Age range: 6 months - 3 years
Max weight: 20kg
Washing instructions: Machine washable
Material: Cotton
Item weight: 340g
  • Wide, adjustable waistband
  • Stylish denim effect material
  • Padded seat
  • Non-slip pad
  • Additional accessories available to purchase

Best c-section friendly hip carrier

The Momcozy hip carrier features a widened waist belt with an EVA massage pad that relieves abdominal pressure and makes this hip carrier ideal for mums who have had a c-section. The seat evenly distributes your little one's weight which provides protects your back and shoulders too. Plus we love the 30 degree inclined seat which brings baby closer to you as well as ensuring your baby's legs are in the paediatrician recommended 'M' position which will alleviate stress on your hips.

The seat is suitable from newborn and up until 36 months or 45 pounds, and it offers multiple seating positions including, inward-facing, outward-facing, side carrying, and feeding position. It is perfect for around the house whilst doing chores, or out and about on a day trip or holiday, or even just doing the weekly shop.

We love how it also have storage compartments for wipes and your personal belongings, while still being extremely lightweight. One reviewer said she "loves the freedom it gives her and it’s so easy to put her daughter down or into a swing and to change her position quickly and easily. Lots of storage and pockets too." While another reviewer commented that it "is thoughtfully designed and really well made with good quality fabrics and an ergonomic shape with supportive inner filling so it feels very natural and comfortable to use. It's flexible too in how you can position it and I think it serves its purpose really well. I hadn't come across anything like this before so I found it to be quite an original product, I think it's worth the investment."

However, one reviewer did say that "the only drawback for me is that it’s almost too big. I would have liked a size small for a firm fit."

Pros

  • Pockets for storing personal items
  • Seat tilts at a 30 degree angle for closeness
  • Various seating positions for your little one

Cons

  • Some reviewers thought it was a bit large
Age range:Newborn to 36 months
Dimensions: 30 x 22.6 x 16 cm
Maximum weight: 45 pounds
Material: Polyester
Washing instructions: Machine washable
  • Designed so little one sits in the 'M' position
  • Tilted seat for closeness
  • Wide, elasticated waistband
  • Multiple seating positions
  • Storage pockets

Best hip carrier with a safety strap

With a safety belt for added reassurance, you can carry your little one on your hip without harming your back. It ensures your baby is kept in a natural sitting position and they can face in or out, plus the seat is tilted at 30 degrees to keep them close to you.

We large the large storage pocket which is ideal for your personal belongings but also wipes and nappies, meaning this carrier can be worn at home or out and about. One reviewer, Tania, said, "it's useful when I carry my grandson in my arms. It's also useful when he falls asleep. My grandson only falls asleep in my arms. This support helps me because it supports the little one and I can better protect my arms and back."

Reviewers also like the mesh fabric on the waist belt to ensure you don't get too sweaty when wearing it. They also liked the support it provides for baby's legs, hips, spine, and how it allows you to hold your baby close. One reviewer commented, "the baby carrier is good. I am using it for my 8 kg baby. Easy to use and install. I am feeling comfortable and I don't feel any weight of the baby as it has seating arrangement for baby. Baby legs position are safe."

However, one reviewer did say, that the "only negative is that it doesn’t expand much on the waist so my husband can’t wear it."

Pros

  • Mesh fabric to keep you cool
  • Large storage pocket to carry essentials

Cons

  • Waistband is too small for everyone to wear
Age range: Not stated
Maximum weight: 35 pounds
Material: Cotton
Dimensions: 34 x 33.4 x 14.4 cm
Washing instructions: Machine washable
  • Large storage pocket
  • Mesh fabric for coolness
  • Tilted seat for closeness
  • Baby can face in or out

Best multifunction hip carrier

Baby hip seat with carrierAmazon
Price: £39.98

This handy hip carrier also doubles as a baby carrier and there are 6 ways to carry your little one, plus it is suitable from newborn until 36 months, or 33 pounds. We love that it has been acknowledge by The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) as a 'healthy hip' product.

There is an abominable cushion made of breathable sponge to enhance air circulation, and an adjustable shoulder strap buckle for added support when using as a baby carrier. One reviewer was really impressed with the product, saying, "it is easy to wear and comfortable for both us and baby. It feels safe and structured but isn’t heavy. The detachable seat will also be great for the future. It has a little side pocket that is handy. Lovely colour and design too. Great quality and price."

While another reviewer, Alice, added, " I absolutely love this carrier I have had a bad back after having my little one and this has saved it when I’m out and about not wanting a pushchair it’s comfy it feels so supported it has numerous pockets and the colour choice is fab it’s easy to adjust and to put baby in and the quality is amazing! I love it." Although, some reviewers did say the buckles at the back are hard to do up on your own and another also said, "when they are forward facing, my baby seems pushed forward with shoulders behind and can't find a comfortable place for their arms."

Pros

  • Multiple wearing options including as a baby carrier
  • Listed as a 'hip healthy' product

Cons

  • Back buckle is hard to do up on your own
Age range: Newborn - 36 months
Dimensions: 20 x 26 x 24 cm
Maximum weight: 33 pounds
Washing instructions: Machine washable
Material:Polyester and cotton
  • Doubles as a baby carrier
  • 6 ways to wear
  • Hip healthy
  • Storage pockets

Best money saving hip carrier

A great carrier for older toddlers up to 3.5 years, we love that it is lightweight and easy to store when out and about so you can put it away between uses. Made from easy to clean polyester, it is a convenient and easy to care for product, providing comfort for mum and baby.

Reviewers like that it can be used in two ways with baby either lying down or sitting up in the hip swing carrier. One reviewer was pleased with the convenience of the product saying, " It feels sturdy and has been really useful for quick trips out. It didn't need to be assembled in any way and it's very easy to use and adjust."

However, another reviewer was disappointed and thought it was lacking quality, although added they "should have realised that from the price."

Overall, it is great for older children up until 50 pounds and babies too but do bear in mind that whether baby is lying down of sitting up you do need to support them with one hand on the back of their head or back.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact to store or travel with
  • Great for older toddlers

Cons

  • You need to support your child's head or back when they are in the hip swing
Age range: 5 months to 3.5 years
Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 40 cm
Material: Cotton and polyester
Maximum weight: 50 pounds
Washing instructions: Machine washable
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Compact
  • Great for older toddlers
  • Machine washable

Best hip swing carrier

Wild Ride toddler carrierNatural Baby Shower

For real style when wearing a hip carrier, then the Wildride is a great choice. Available in a range of fabrics from black zebra, to olive cord, feathers or leopard print, we love the variety. It is also very comfortable to wear for you and your little one with a seat made from 100% cotton.

The Wildride is expensive and one reviewer said, the "product itself is handy and easy to use. Fabric feels cheap though, would say this should be priced around £65-70 for the quality. I don’t think this will last till my second child." However, reviewers love the convenience of the product and especially that it can be used when it is hard to take a stroller to buggy. One reviewer commented, "firstly this product is so well made, for all heights. My little one absolutely loves being in the sling, it has even made us closer as I had trouble with my lower back and could not pick him up for long, now I can go for very long walks with him being in the sling."

Overall if you are looking for a stylish carrier that is easy to take with you on days out, this is a great choice as one reviewer said, "the quality of the Wildride toddler carrier is 5/5. And is comfortable for me and seems comfortable for my 13-month-old son. Looks good too! I'm planning to take this with us abroad, it folds up small so easy to put in a bag, so will be perfect for travelling." While another mum added, it's "great for in between stage of walking but not far- doesn't give masses of support but highly useful."

Pros

  • Fun designs available
  • Very portable for days out
  • A nylon strap for extra strength
  • Easy to put on and take off

Cons

  • One of the most expensive hip swing carriers
  • Only suitable up until 20kg
Age range: 9 months - 4 years
Maximum weight: 20kg
Material: Cotton and nylon
  • Fun designs
  • Suitable up to 4 years
  • Strong nylon strap
  • Compact and great for travelling

Best lightweight hip carrier

Tushbaby hip carrierAmazon

Rrp: £84.99

Price: £55.99
Alternative retailers
Target$55.99View offer
Nordstrom$85.00View offer
Crate & Barrel$85.00View offer
Nordstrom$85.00View offer

Weighing less than 1 pound, this is a really lightweight hip carrier, plus it doubles as a nappy bag because it can hold nappies and wipes in a large storage bag. We love that it lets you carry baby in 4 different positions including, feeding, side carrying, front facing, and face to face.

The Tushbaby is paediatrician approved for babies and also approved by chiropractors for grown ups. It puts your baby's hips in the pediatric-recommended M position, and reduces painful spine curvature for grown-ups so you can both stay safe and comfortable. It is also suitable from newborn up to 44 pounds or 3 years. One reviewer loved how it allowed her to carry her baby for longer saying, "ordered this to use for our Disneyland vacation and it was THE BEST! My 35 lb toddler loves to be close to me, so this was great for walking or waiting in line. I love the storage space and ended up only bringing the stroller for one day - we didn’t need it because this was so comfortable for us. It allowed me to relive the baby carrying days a little longer!"

Compared to other hip carriers on the market, it is on the pricey side, but one reviewer, commented, "if you’re deciding on whether or not to buy a knock off or a competitor brand, I suggest not doing it. I do believe that Tushbaby is worth it!" She added, "Tushbaby provides a thick belt, allowing a more comfortable fit when baby’s weight pushes down. Baby sits right where he should be. In my opinion, it seems to be sturdier based on its heavier materials. There’s several pockets, which is something that I don’t really need, but does come in handy when I need to put my phone down. The seat is a suede type of material (I bought the camo style) and seems like it would be comfortable to sit in, as opposed to the benefits rubber grips. My son doesn’t slide around and is pretty stable when seated. The Velcro that wraps around your body seems to be very secure, and the buckle features a safety lock which I thought added a nice touch."

Overall, the Tushbaby is popular with mums for supporting their backs, despite it being more expensive. One mum said, it's "a lifesaver for the back. It has really helped me with carrying my baby around with no back pain. The quality seems good and does not seem like something that will break anytime soon. I use mine everyday."

Pros

  • Paediatrician and Chiropractor approved
  • Large storage space for nappies and wipes
  • Non-slip seat to keep baby stable

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other brands
Age range: Newborn to 3 years
Maximum weight: 44 pounds
Material: Memory foam
Dimensions: 6 x 11 x 10 cm
Washing instructions: Machine washable
  • Paediatrician and chiropractor approved
  • Large storage pocket
  • Machine washable
  • Lightweight

Best budget hip carrier

A great budget option, this hip carrier comes in under £25, plus it has a handy shoulder strap for additional support. This means the baby's weight is shared across the waist, shoulder and arm. We loved the thick sponge seat which is very comfortable for baby to sit on and there is also waist padding to reduce any tummy pressure after a c-section.

One mum Emma found this product really helpful saying, "I've torn a tendon in my shoulder and was really struggling to hold my baby with the pain. Came across these by accident and so pleased I did. Very comfortable and really secure. Love mine. Worth every penny!" However, another mum, Emily, added, "wouldn’t recommend for adults on the bigger size - I’m a size 14/16 and the Velcro only just goes around me."

Reviewers were really pleased with the versatility and one commented, that it "will hold my 4 year old and my 9 month old so easily. It’s a life saver." Although some reviewers still didn't think it was suitable for prolonged wear.

Pros

  • Padded waistband to relieve pressure on tummy
  • Shoulder strap to evenly distribute baby's weight
  • A good budget option

Cons

  • Quite small for larger waists
  • Hand wash only
Age range: Babies under 3 years
Dimensions: 29.9 x 26.4 x 15.1 cm
Maximum weight: 20kg
Material: Polyester
Washing instructions: Hand wash only
  • Shoulder strap for added support
  • Padded waistband
  • Comfortable seat for baby
  • Additional colours available

Are baby hip carriers safe?

Yes, hip seat carriers are safe as long as they are used appropriately. Always take note of the age limits and don't use on a child under the recommended age and similarly stop using once your little one exceeds the maximum weight limit. Some hip carriers have straps, or can double as a baby carrier, but others don't and therefore you must make sure that you support your baby or toddler with your arms to ensure they stay safe.

Hip carriers are a safe option for parents because they distribute the weight of your little one to protect your back, and also prevent curving of the spine which can happen when you stick your hip out to carry a child. However, carrying a child can cause back problems and also weaken the pelvic floor when not done correctly, whether using a baby carrier or hip carrier. It is also important to think about the strain on picking them up. Sarah Campus advises, "holding your baby on one hip and only supporting them with one arm kicks your hips and spine out of alignment. Hip and pelvic girdle pain are common when you hold your child incorrectly. Regardless of babywearing status, lifting a child creates most pressure on the pelvic floor. During the carry phase, the weight of the child increases the pressure on the pelvic floor, whether in arms or a carrier."

The International Hip Dysplasia Institute says that ideally for the first 6 months your little one should be inward facing because this is a rapid period of hip development. They explain: "When the infant is carried while facing towards the mother, an infant may grasp the mother’s torso by using the inner thigh muscles. This generates beneficial forces for hip development while the infant is in the M-position." The same as the dos and don'ts of baby carriers, you also have to follow the advice that comes with your hip carrier to ensure little one (and you) stay safe and comfortable.

Are hip seat carriers good?

There are many advantages to hip carriers. These include:

Convenience: They can be easily put on and off and allow your child to hop on and off without frustrating straps.

Promote proper posture: They prevent you sticking out your hip, or straining your shoulders.

Storage: They often include storage pockets for baby wipes or nappies, as well as keys, phone and purse.

Lightweight: They are lightweight and comfortable to wear

Weight distribution: They distribute your child's weight evenly across your waist, back and hips for added support

Healthy hips: Many hip carriers ensure your little one sits in the 'healthy hips' position.

Compact: Hip carriers, especially the hip swing carriers, can easily fold down into your bag for travelling and convenience

Is a hip seat carrier better than a normal carrier?

It really depends on you and your baby's needs. A baby carrier is more secure and will support baby leaving you hands free. A hip carrier will not always leave you hands free but it will give your little one more independence to jump on and off when they want without being unstrapped.

You might find a hip carrier more convenient for older toddlers who want to walk but can't manage to walk all the way and need the odd carry, whereas a baby carrier will allow you to carry your little one for longer periods safely strapped in. A hip seat carrier will provide less stress on your upper body than a baby carrier which might pull on your shoulders and not distribute weight as evenly. Sarah Campus, comments, that, a hip carrier is more "comfortable for your back: A toddler carrier hip seat or baby hip carrier provides you extra comfort, taking the pressure off your back and affording you more carrying positions than something like a wrap or structured carrier."

You can also use a hip carrier for feeding, just as you can breastfeed in a baby sling or carrier, the padded seat on a hip carrier can provide feeding support.

Should you carry your baby on your hips?

As parents, we know how natural it feels to scoop your little one up and sit them on your hip. It is okay to do this occasionally but constant hip holding will cause your spine to curve, because to support your little on your hip you need to push it out. To prevent this you can swap sides, and move your baby from hip to hip. If you have recently had a baby and still have a toddler who likes to be carried, then carrying them on your hip can affect the recovery of your pelvic floor. Sarah Campus explains, "the added weight of carrying your baby on your front, the postural changes it can encourage, and the pressure of a tight belt around your waist can all increase pressure on the pelvic floor, and therefore may contribute to worsening symptoms. So long as you give carrying a break on regular intervals it is highly advised and always be mindful of your posture, standing stance and to engage your core to protect your lower back."

Sarah Campus adds, "it's not to say you can't ever hold your baby on your hip; when doing so, be sure to switch sides intermittently to prevent strain. Keeping your hips in line and preventing kicking one hip out to the side is also a good idea." Alternatively, a hip carrier will support your back and evenly distribute weight, as well as prevent you pushing out your hip.

Can babies sleep in a hip seat carrier?

Yes, they can, however, hip carriers don't tend to be hands free, so you will need to support them. Some double up as baby carriers or baby slings which provide more support for sleeping. Often hip carriers have tilted seats to keep you and little one close and this will make baby feel secure and they will feel happy to sleep, as long as you can hold them while they doze.

What age are hip carriers for?

Some hip carriers are suitable from newborn and have options for inward facing, as well as feeding and outward facing. However, some are suitable for older babies and toddlers who are better able to support themselves. Typically, they are suitable up to 3 years, although some can go up to 4 years but always follow the maximum weight guidance to ensure you and your little one are safe.

About the expert

Sarah Campus is a highly qualified women's PT, Nutrition Coach, mum of 3 and founder of holistic wellness platform LDN MUMS FITNESS.  She is a Level 2 and Level 3 qualified Personal Trainer and Gym Instructor, and has completed programmes in Exercise and Nutrition, Exercise Referral/GP Referral, Exercise Ante and Post Natal, Exercise for Older Adults, Bootcamps and Circuits, Advanced Fitness Testing, Free Weights, Indoor Group Cycling, and specialises in Ante and Post Natal, Weight Management, Core-Stability, Tough Mudder/Circuit Training and Abdominal work. As a fitness and holistic wellness expert, Sarah regularly features on TV and in Magazines, offering tips and advice to keep the whole family healthy and active

Laura Healy is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby. She is a mum-of-two girls and loves writing about all things parenting, she is particularly interested in the toddler years and eco-friendly baby products, as well as children’s literature. She has a PhD in Creative Writing and has published short stories in the UK and Ireland, as well as previously writing freelance for her local paper.

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