Best baby carrier and slings for newborns and beyond, chosen by parent testers 2025

This luxury carrier is fantastically versatile, offering four different carry positions including forward-facing, backwards-facing, side-facing and backpack style as well as a large detachable pouch for extra storage. Mum tester Israa loved the style, commenting, "It’s very stylish and gender neutral and I LOVE that there is a carrying pouch for keys etc. My baby loved it and would fall off to sleep every time, so I think that classifies as comfortable too!"

We love how much longevity you'll get out of this carrier, taking you from week one with your baby up to 20kg. It even includes a lumbar support belt as well as crossable straps for a more comfortable and personalised fit as your baby grows. Our mum testers agreed these extra features made the baby wearing experience a lot more comfortable, with mum Joanne saying, "It is really comfortable to wear and the ability to put a small baby in without an insert is a stand out feature. It makes it much quicker to put on but also looks far more comfortable for the baby."

This carrier is also machine washable, and our reviewers found it didn't lose its shape even after washing. Added extras were also very welcome including the little fold-out hood that offers sun protection for baby's head and a cushioned neck support added comfort for baby.

Read our full Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier review.

Awarded Gold for Best Baby Carrier at the Mother&Baby Awards 2023.

Winner of the Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier in the 2023 Mother&Baby Awards, this carrier offers ease and security for parent and baby, allowing you to keep your little one close while keeping your hands free.

Suitable for babies aged 0-3 years, the Nuna CUDL is designed to grow with your child, featuring an integrated infant booster for newborns that easily adjusts as your baby grows. Whether you prefer baby facing in for those intimate snuggles or facing out to explore the world, or even backpack mode for long walks outside, the CUDL has you covered. Parents also love the range of stylish colours it comes in, with something to suit everyone. 

We know comfort is key when it comes to baby carriers, and the CUDL ensures maximum comfort with its padded shoulder straps and waistband, which are made using breathable fabric for warmer months. The magnetic buckles make taking your little one in and out of their carrier a breeze, while the zip-open storage pocket on the waistband provides convenient storage for your essentials. Our mum tester Evie found taking her sleeping baby out very easy; “It’s very easy to put on and fit, and we love that you can easily undo the buckles quietly to transfer a sleeping baby out of the sling," she said. 

It also comes with a sun hood for brighter days and organic cotton bibs, making it a must-have for on-the-go families who just need everything in one. Our parent tester particularly loved this feature, "The bib attachment to the front of the CUDL is great for forward facing, especially as little ones like to suck on the front of the sling. We love how easy it is to then remove the bib and wash it without needing to wash the entire thing."

Read our full Nuna CUDL review

Awarded Silver for Best Baby Carrier/Sling in the 2020 Mother&Baby Awards.

Ideal for mums and dads on the move, the BabyBjörn Carrier Mini offers a more compact solution compared to bulkier baby carriers on the market. Made with soft and breathable fabric, this carrier is designed to make both day and night use effortless, particularly for travelling. Our mum tester, Charlotte, agreed with how easy it is to transport – “The carrier is very transportable, it isn't too bulky, and it is very easy to use when taking your baby out and about.” Its detachable front section allows for easy access when your little one is sleeping, adding to the convenience for both parent and baby.

Our real parent testers also found the BabyBjörn Carrier Mini very easy to adjust and loved that the head support was also fully adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit for your growing baby. Our mum tester Emma found it very easy to use, commenting, “The simplicity of use is a massive bonus as there’s no complicated straps or buttons to deal with, and the baby can be placed and secured in the carrier quickly and easily.” The carrier's ability to distribute weight evenly means you can carry your baby comfortably for longer periods and the fact it’s machine washable only adds to its convenience.

It also comes with very clear instructions, making it a breeze to use, even for first-time parents, giving you the peace of mind that the baby is secure and safe in their carrier. Our mum tester, Eliana, liked how safe it felt, commenting, “It comes with clear instructions, and you can also download this on the internet. It is reassuring that you have to hear the click noise to know you have locked the carrier securely.” As well as providing a safe spot for your little one, its smaller size makes it nice and portable for when you need to take it with you, and the soft fabric and supportive design ensure both parent and baby stay comfortable, whether you're on the move or enjoying quiet moments at home.

Read our full BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini review

Awarded Gold for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier at the M&B Awards 2022.

If you’re looking for a more premium quality carrier designed for parents who struggle with back pain, then you may want to consider the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony. This carrier features a wide seat area, adjustable head support, and a blend of cool, breathable mesh and soft jersey materials for optimal comfort.

Our real parent testers loved how easy it was to use, with mum tester Philippa saying, “I’ve used a range of carriers before and really struggled to get them on and baby in by myself! This one is so much easier, I can adjust all of the straps effortlessly.” They also loved how easy this was to adjust from parent to parent, with mum Daisy saying, “it is easier to fit (especially when swapping between me and my husband) than any other carrier we tried.”

With adjustable straps and multiple carrying positions, the Harmony is great for your growing baby as it’s suitable for babies aged 0-3 years, without the need for a newborn insert for smaller babies. Parents also found their baby’s weight was evenly distributed and the padded back support and shoulder straps provided some extra comfort.

While some testers suggested additional colour options or integrated pockets for storage, parents loved how easy it was to use as well as the long-term value this carrier offers. They also loved how easily this folded away when not in use.

Mum tester, Carly had originally questioned the higher price tag but felt that this was justified after testing it. "The only thing that had originally put me off the carrier was the price tag. When there are so many options on the market, of course you find yourself wondering if it’s worth it to splash out on theextra cash. There are more expensive options available too, but the BabyBjörn carrier is one of the higher priced options. However, with a breathable mesh fabric, three-year use and the incredible back support, it’s got my vote."

Read our full BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony review

The Carifit+ carrier was designed with movement in mind; it's a carrier made from technical sports fabric and designed to help maintain your centre of gravity and make your baby feel lighter, and comes with a 12 month subscription to the Carifit+ app. 

It was created by Vern Hill, an ante and post-natal fitness expert and father of two, so from the racerback design and the breathable mesh technical fabric, to the close carrying position, every detail is designed to enable you to move freely and safely while babywearing. Not only is it comfortable for you, but our tester mum, Zoe found it to be safe and comfortable for her daughter, saying "My daughter can’t speak yet, but she certainly looks comfortable in the carrier, and it complies with T.I.C.K.S guidelines, holding your baby in a safe position."

As well as being comfortable for workouts, Zoe found the Carifit+ was comfortable enough to wear for extended periods. "The first day that I got fitted for my Carifit+ I walked across London and then got the train from London back to Leeds, and then got a bus from Leeds out to the suburbs where I live and then walked from the bus stop to my house — with my daughter in the Carifit+ carrier. All this to say that it is very comfortable for long-distance (or long time-period) babywearing."

She did note that while the structure makes it ideal for longer periods of babywearing or exercise, it does make it more of a process to put baby in and out which isn't ideal for more casual use. "The Carifit+ still isn’t my go-to for casual babywearing around the house or running errands, because that overhead motion to get the baby in and out means that you essentially have to remove everything except the waistband each time (as opposed to just pulling the fabric and/or loosening the straps)." For this reason you might find it helpful to have a second carrier that can be used for just popping baby in and out when they need a bit of comfort.

Zoe also appreciated the app, which is full of workout programmes that can be tailored to you, and advice in the care section from trusted experts.

Read our full Carifit+ review.

Shortlisted for Best Baby Carrier/Sling in the 2022 M&B Awards.

Designed to provide optimal support and comfort for both you and your little one, the Joie Savvy has four different carrying positions, including front and back, this carrier allows you to keep your baby close and secure while you get on with life.

Certified hip-healthy by the Hip Dysplasia Institute, the Savvy ensures your baby sits in a comfortable M-shaped position, promoting healthy spine and hip development. Our mum tester Kirsty particularly loved how easy it was to use; “The carrier is easy to put on and the magnets make it easy to get baby in and out by myself. This feature also means I can take my baby out just to feed her or change her nappy and then pop her back in without needing to take off the whole carrier and readjust it all over again,” she said.

The carrier also comes with bibs and harness pads, and our parent testers appreciated that the carrier was also machine-washable, making cleaning a breeze, with mum tester Kirsty saying, “I love that the Savvy is machine washable too so I don't have to worry if it does get dirty.” 

Although there were a few aspects of the carrier our parent testers would like improved, including the strength of the buckles, they loved its comfort and design overall, with the standout feature being how easy this was to put on and take off. Mum Sarah found it very easy to use even with another little one in tow; “The auto click buckle is absolutely amazing and can even be done one-handed, which is an absolute godsend, especially when juggling more than one child. It can be put on really quickly, so it minimises any time for tears or tantrums from all parties!”

Read our full Joie Savvy review

Designed by the Swedish brand Najell, this baby carrier is a modern twist on a classic baby carrier, both feeling and looking the part. The Original Volume 2 will see you from newborn to 3 years with just one carrier making it much better value for money compared to other carriers with less longevity.

Our mum testers also love how environmentally friendly this carrier also is as it’s made from recycled fabrics. The magnetic clips ensure quick and easy usage, while the extra pouch adds convenience for carrying essentials. Our mum tester, Ria, agreed with how easy it is to use, commenting, “The magnetic clip system is so quick and secure that it means I can put our little one in without assistance. It takes a matter of seconds to strap in our little one and we’ve actually ditched the pram for small dog walks and use the Najell baby carrier as it’s so easy to put her in.” It’s easy adjustability also make it ideal for both parents to use.

As well as feeling soft and having a trendy design, the padded waistband and shoulder straps provide an added layer of comfort particularly for postpartum recovery when you need it most. Our mum tester Ria said, “The carrier has a padded waistband and shoulder straps that make it very comfy to wear (even with a post-partum belly and c-section scar), and I imagine this will be particularly helpful as she gets bigger and we are carrying that little bit more weight.” 

The carrier is also machine-washable, adding further to its convenience, allowing for easy cleaning after any spills. “A big bonus is that it's machine washable meaning that I don’t have to worry about any milk dribble or reflux that might get on the carrier.” Ria said.

Read our full Najell Original Volume 2 baby carrier review

Made from 100% certified organic cotton, the Gaia Stretchy Baby Carrier Wrap offers the perfect blend of comfort, simplicity, and eco-conscious design. Designed to support newborns through to toddlerhood, it’s breathable, soft against delicate skin, and provides excellent value for money for first-time and experienced parents alike.

Its ergonomic fit allows for even weight distribution and supports healthy hip development from the earliest days. Parents can choose from three carry positions, all explained through easy-to-follow video instructions. A clearly marked centre point, complete with sticker, makes it even easier to get the fit just right. As one first-time mum, Carly, shared “I was nervous about trying a wrap-style carrier, but my nerves were quickly settled. It only took me two tries before I felt comfortable—and the positioning sticker gave me total confidence I was doing it right.”

Thanks to its gender-neutral and size-inclusive design, this wrap works for all, and with no buckles or bulky straps, it’s as stylish as it is practical. Carly noted, “It’s incredibly light—there’s not too much material, no straps, and it’s stripped right back to basics. I’ll be using it around the house, for events, or even popping to someone’s place—it’s just so easy.”

This minimalist design doesn’t mean compromising on performance though. The one-way stretch organic cotton is naturally anti-bacterial, biodegradable, and completely free from chemical dyes, providing a safe, breathable environment for baby. The neutral colour palette draws inspiration from nature and is neutral enough to fit most tastes.

Our mum tester also thought its affordability was another highlight. “At only £40, it’s easier to use than some of the pricier carriers I’ve tried. It’ll be my go-to for indoors or short outings—it’s an absolute bargain,” Carly added.

The Gaia wrap is machine washable and compact enough to tuck into a change bag so it's a great baby carrier to have on-the-go, whether you're out and about and baby wants a change of scene from the pram or you're at home and need to be hands-free.

Read the full Gaia Organics baby carrier wrap review

The Ergobaby Aura was a firm favourite with our mum testers for younger babies, with one saying, "I really love this baby wrap! I have been using a baby carrier, but as my daughter is only 8 weeks old, it feels a bit big for her. I love how the wrap helped her to feel snug and secure, and brought her closer to me, which is definitely more helpful in those early few months. It feels really nice, and it's comfortable to wear too" 

We loved that this wrap is ideal for summer walks or travel, being lightweight and breathable with an integrated pocket that makes it easy to store when not in use. The non-buckle design also makes it a comfortable, fuss-free option for travelling and moving about with your baby. It also comes in a choice of two fabrics - cooling mesh or cosy knit for different seasons. It's available in petite and plus sizes, making it suitable, not to mention comfortable for mum and dad whatever your size. Comfort is something that parents seem to agree on when talking about the Ergobaby Aura – One reviewer shared that it was extra important for her that the wrap was soft and durable as she broke her back a couple of years ago. She approves of the Ergobaby Aura baby carrier for being much more comfortable than other bulky carriers. Plus, this wrap is great value for money with its impressive 10-year guarantee, meaning you're covered for baby one, two and three!

The main challenge parents seem to face with this baby carrier is learning to tie it properly, with some mums also complaining that the fabric has too much stretch. Mum tester, Tashina, says she felt a little overwhelmed at first with how long the wrap is, but after watching the instructional video and after a couple of practices, she got the hang of it and felt her baby was completely safe and secure when wearing it. She adds that while it may seem like a lot of rope at first, you'll soon see that you need all of it to safely secure your baby. It's worth mentioning that the wrap can actually be pre-tied to then pop your baby in when you're ready – and colour-coded seams make it easier to tie!

While some may find it more on the expensive side when compared to others, overall the wrap is praised for being comfortable and well-made. Plus, the design supports the essential baby squat-spread position, which promotes a healthy M-shape leg position and healthy development for your baby’s back, head, and neck. For parents, it distributes your baby’s weight evenly across your back and hips, alleviating common back pains associated with carrying, which are all really important factors when deciding on a baby carrier.

Read the full Ergobaby Aura Baby Carrier Wrap review

Awarded Silver for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024. 

The RYLOOBABY Sling offers little ones a safe, comfy and calming space with good airflow to keep them cool. It's also one of the most budget-friendly baby carriers on our list.  

Made from durable materials – 95 per cent cotton and 5 per cent spandex, the sling is practical as well as comfortable. Our dad tester, Tim Ferid, describes the sling as "incredibly soft", and he thought the packaging was lovely; "a cute touch when receiving the wrap". He also said the baby sling is "lightweight and all rolls up into a small bag for easy transport." Tim recommends this baby sling due to how user-friendly it is and how comfortable he said it felt for both him and Otis, his son.   

As for mum, we think you'll love the grey-green colour, it's a soft neutral that'll go with anything you have in your wardrobe and, being a one-size-fits-all, all mums can wear it. You'll find the clear pictorial instructions useful, which Tim found easy to follow, not to mention the video link if you really do find yourself tangled up! Our mum tester, who had never used a wrap sling before, also found it easy to follow the instructions.

She goes on to express how much she loved the material of this wrap, describing it as thick, soft and luxurious. The comfort factor of this product was also tested against the mum's c-section scar that wasn't healing. She found that everything rubbed, but the soft material of the Ryloobaby Sling genuinely helped to keep discomfort at bay. In reviews, mums also love this sling for relieving back and shoulder pain. Indeed, the sling is described as a “hip-healthy” product by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI). 

The versatility of the Ryloobaby Sling is what reviewers appreciate most, not just allowing for different carrying positions - front and back, but also being suitable for newborns. Many mums commented on how they enjoy being close to little ones and experience that sense of connection while staying hands-free to get on with everyday life chores and activities. Our mum tester describes how this has minimised stress for her so that she can carry on as normal, whilst attending to her newborn baby's needs too. 

Read our full RYLOOBABY Sling review.

Awarded Bronze for Best Baby Carrier/Sling in the 2021 M&B Awards

Offering both complete carrying freedom and close bonding with your baby, the Izmi Wrap is made from luxuriously soft two-way stretch bamboo material, providing a snug and supportive position for your baby, which is recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. With two carrying positions - front carry and hip carry - this wrap offers some extra comfort for babies and mums. Tester, Sam described it as "An absolute must-have for any mum. I love babywearing for the bond it gives me with my baby.”

Some parents would have liked some improvements, such as increasing the weight limit for older babies, as our mum tester Carys found, commenting, “there is a limited timeframe on how long the wrap can be used for, which might not make it suitable for all if budgets were tight.” They would have also liked a more simplified wrapping process, as Carys also found, “Without having the videos to hand, putting the wrap on is a bit difficult, so if this could be simplified, then I think that would be a big benefit.” 

Overall, our parent testers loved its durability and versatility, making it a preferred choice over structured carriers for the close bond it fosters between parent and baby.

Read our full Izmi Baby Wrap review

Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards and won Gold in 2020 for Best Baby Carrier/Sling category.

Made with a blend of soft, breathable fabric, including sustainable eucalyptus tree pulp, the FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap ensures your baby stays safe and comfortable throughout the day in a soft and cosy cocoon. In addition to being soft, our parent testers also loved the stylish design, how lightweight and portable it is, and how it kept both them and the baby cool. 

We know using a wrap can feel a little intimidating the first time you use one, but parent testers found the FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap easy to use thanks to its clear instructions and online tutorials, allowing parents to master the wrap's technique. Our mum tester, Samantha, loved the added instructions, saying, “There are instructions and a video online to help you learn how to fit the wrap correctly. Once you have mastered how to use it, it can be fitted quickly, and it allows you to be hands-free while still giving baby cuddles and comfort.”

Designed to fit all sizes, it can carry babies from 8 lbs up to 35 lbs; parents love its sustainable nature as well as its premium design. Our mum tester, Emily, loved this wrap, saying, “This wrap is without a doubt the best on the market. I have used others & found them too hot, but the fabric of this wrap is really breathable, and this is what makes it stand out for me. I also like the fact that in the future FreeRider will be making wraps to support various charities and will donate a percentage of the profits.”

Read our full FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap review

Awarded Bronze for Best Baby Carrier at Mother&Baby Awards 2023.

This soft and cosy cotton wrap is designed to provide your newborn with the comforting sensation of being in the womb. Unlike other wraps, it offers four different carrying positions and is designed to be suitable from birth to 12 months.

Made from 100% cotton, the SnuggleRoo is gentle on both your baby's delicate skin and yours, leaving no red marks behind. Its simple design promotes that all-important bonding experience between parent and child while allowing for hands-free parenting, ideal for busy mums and dads on the go.

During testing, parents found the carrier comfortable and convenient, especially during the newborn stage. “I loved how high and close it held baby to me, so he felt reassured at all times too,” commented our mum tester Rosemary. Although some parents found the instructions a bit tricky to follow initially, with mum Natalie saying, “they weren’t very clear on how to wear it,” parents eventually praised the carrier's soft material and absence of complicated buckles or mechanisms.

The SnuggleRoo's lightweight and compact design make it easy to store away and carry, fitting neatly into your baby bag or stroller without being bulky. Our mum tester Georgia said, “it is lightweight, so can easily be folded up into your change back, popped underneath the pushchair or packed in a suitcase, without taking up too much space.” Parents also appreciated its versatility and comfort, making it a go-to choice for outings and busy schedules.

Our testers also found it very easy to adjust as baby grows, with mum tester Sooha commenting, “It’s easy to adjust which saves valuable time.” They also agreed that the fact it was machine washable was brilliant after an accident, making it very easy to keep clean.

Read our full Dreamgenii Snuggleroo Baby Carrier review