mei tai, soft structured carrier, or woven wrap

 

The two shoulder carriers (mei tai, soft structured carrier, and wrap) offer the most comfortable carries possible for a heavy child: back and tummy to tummy.  A convenient back carry for a long walk at the store or the park. . .  A sweet snuggle (tummy to tummy) with your sick child who suddenly needs to be held all day. . .  

 

The mei tai, soft structured carrier, and wrap all work equally well in the front, but back carries are easier in both the mei tai and the soft structured carrier.  (Also, note that you will probably prefer woven wrap rather than stretchy when your child goes beyond 20 pounds.)

 

If your main concern is a “pop-able” hip carry and your toddler is not exceptionally heavy, you may enjoy the ease of a pouch or ring sling.  If you intend to wear your toddler exclusively on your hip (not snuggle or back) and are looking for the most comfortable carrier for just this position, you may find a Mei Hip (not pictured here) to be perfect for you.

 

 

The purpose of this chart is to give you a general idea of how the various carriers are used.  These charts are not intended to take the place of thorough wearing instructions.  

 

Related pages:

 

Also, more information can be found by exploring the links on the Babywearing Basics page. . .