13 Best Baby Carriers For Breastfeeding Moms | Nursing While Walking At The Same Time!

When your a breastfeeding mom you get the desire for hands free nursing while walking at the same time as breastfeeding! While learning to nurse in a baby carry, then go hands free, then ultimately walk at the same time as breastfeeding can take a little practice, you can get there! Discover the best baby carrier for breastfeeding moms that will allow you to keep your baby close to nurse in plus how to choose the best baby carrier for you!

SPOILER: My personal favorite is this one!

Best Baby Carrier Wraps For Breastfeeding Moms:

 Best Baby Carrier Wrap: Solly Baby Wrap

Solly is known for their ultra soft baby carriers that are also SUPER cute! They are my #1 baby carrier in general, but also the most comfortable and breathable baby wrap I've tried!

They work great for babies from 8 to 25 lbs. They come in over 20 colors to choose from. Since baby wraps are adjustable, this can be worn by the breastfeeding mama as well as any other caregivers.

As far as nursing in the wrap, it takes some getting used to but IS possible! And if you don't feel

comfortable doing it, the wrap offers nice privacy coverage if nursing in public, without having to cover your baby's face with a blanket.

Their wraps are made from 100% certified Lenzing modal. Lenzing modal is a luxuriously silky-soft, sustainable knit made from the pulp of Austrian beechwood trees and manufactured right in Los Angeles. Lenzing uses wood and wood pulp that is free of pesticides.

The lightweight, stretchy – yet sturdy – material is the easiest to adjust of all the baby wraps I've tested, making it the best for breastfeeding mama's to lower their baby to the boob, while remaining secure when needed.

Runner Up Baby Wrap For Breastfeeding: Boba Baby Wrap

The Boba Baby Wrap is a simple and easy to use wrap carrier that transitions throughout the first year. It can hold babies up to 35 pounds. The French terry material is made from 95% cotton and five percent spandex for stretch and breathability, but it does feel a little stiff compared to Solly baby's wrap.

With five yards of fabric, and a green tag that helps you find the center, this wrap is easy to tie. Plus it’s certified by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) — meaning that you don’t have to worry about creating muscular developmental issues if you use this wrap to baby wear. You can choose from 13 colors here.

Budget Friendly Baby Wrap: KeaBabies

Whether you’re shopping on a budget or want to get an extra wrap carrier, the KeaBabies wrap is a great choice for a modest price. Available in 11 colors, this option also supports up to 35 pounds. You’ll like that it also comes with an instruction video to guide you on the multiple positions. 

The KaeBabies wrap has one the Baby Maternity Magazine 2019 Top Choice Award and the 2019 Family Choice Award. This wrap is also machine washable and made from cotton. We like that you can also use this as a swaddling blanket. 

For extended breastfeeding + baby wearing: Solly Baby The Loop Carrier

The Solly Baby loop carrier is THE BEST for extended wear! It's the ease of a sling with the hidden loop feature, with the support of a wrap.

With that said, cotton definitely feels DIFFERENT than the super soft lenzing modal Solly uses on their wraps. So it'll feel a bit stiffer/thicker. However with each wash it gets softer and softer. It also provides a ton of support, while still remaining breathable.

Easiest Learning Curve: Baby K’tan Original Baby Carrier

If the idea of wrapping and tying yourself up before adding your baby to the mix sounds intimidating, you’ll like the Baby K’Tan Original Baby Carrier. It features a pre-wrapped design so that all you have to do is slip into it. It supports up to 35 pounds and is also compatible with newborns. 

We give it a win because Baby K'tan features a few different materials to choose from, and plenty of colors in each style! The Original and Breeze carriers are 100% cotton, they also have the “Active Oasis” baby carrier which is a nylon, spandex poly blend that's silky soft and moisture wicking while providing 90% UVA protection. Lastly, they offer the Organic version that's GOTS certified 100% Organic cotton. All their carriers are machine washable too!

Best Ring Sling Baby Carriers For Breastfeeding:

We like sling baby carriers for the added ease of both breastfeeding and bottle feeding in a baby carrier – the latter being something you cannot do in the other baby carriers on this list. A ring sling baby carrier provides enough support for your to be hands free or walking at the same time as bottle feeding in a baby carrier. Though we would recommend keeping one hand on baby and one on the bottle in the latter scenario!

Best Ring Sling Baby Carrier For Breastfeeding: Nalakai Ring Sling Baby Carrier

The Nalakai ring sling baby carrier is formerly known as Pura Vida slings and comes in 20 luxury colors. They're made from a SUPER soft bamboo material that's machine washable and breathable! The bamboo is sustainably grown without harsh chemicals or fertilizers and is UV reflective.

This ring sling is designed with safety in mind and are compliant with CPSIA 2008 and ATSM safety standards as well as focusing on healthy hips to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia.

Sling Ring Carrier Runner Up: Moby Ring Sling

Breathability is important, especially if you intend to wear your baby for extended periods. The Moby Ring Sling is made from a double gauze cotton fabric, ensuring plenty of airflow. While it has a smaller weight range capacity compared to others on the list, for eight to 33 pound babies, we do like that it features more fabric, coming in at 85 inches long, for more versatility and is more plus size friendly.

This sling can be worn in front and hip carry positions. It won the Baby Maternity Magazine 2018 Top Choice Award, BabyCenter Best of 2018 Moms’ Picks, and is recognized by the IHDI for promoting healthy hip development. 

Best Sling Baby Carrier For Newborn: Wisremt

Especially for newborns, you need a baby sling that’s designed to provide proper support to avoid having them stuck in a C-position which can obstruct airways. The Wisremt Newborn Baby Carrier Sling is an easy to use solution that makes slipping tiny babies in and out of the carrier a breeze. 

The natural angled design makes breastfeeding significantly easier. This is a one-size product with an adjustable shoulder strap. And while it can transition out of the newborn stage, it can only provide hip support, meaning you’ll need to support their back when your baby is sitting upright.

Best Structured Baby Carriers For Breastfeeding:

Best Overall (TIED): Ergobaby Omni 360 + Lillebaby 6-in-1

These two win best overall simply because of their comprehensive designs. You can wear your baby from the newborn stage through the toddler years. From facing you, to facing forward, to on your back, these carriers are meant to LAST and are super durable. They both feature great lumbar support as well. Both are machine washable, work for babies seven to 45 pounds, and are approved by the IHDI.

With that said, the share one major con: they are bulkier than any other carriers on this list. Meaning you can't just toss it in your purse in case you need to baby wear later.

Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier for Newborn to Toddler with Lumbar Support

Personally, I had the Ergo since my daughter was born, but only wore it during long, physically intensive travel days; like hiking in California or to Disney. With that said, I did get more use out of it after my daughter turned 2 years old and wanted to be carried home from the park everyday. The Ergo Omni 360 was great for me to strap her forward facing, or on my back once I was pregnant, and get her home without the strain.

Lillebaby Original 6-in-1 Baby Carrier

Both the Ergobaby and the Lillebaby feature lumbar support, the Lillebaby model offers more targeted hip support. 

For Newborns: BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini

The BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini is designed to encourage a feeling of closeness and is made from 3D jersey, 3D mesh, and satin-woven cotton and a wide variety of colors. 

Note that it has a smaller weight capacity from seven to 24 pounds and is meant to be phased out after your baby is 12 months old or 24 pounds. 

It is lightweight and folds up into a nice small size, making it one of the best structured baby carriers to toss in your purse or travel with. And the adjustable leg straps grow with your baby. However it is not IHDI certified, and when my baby was still in the 7-10 lbs range, I didn't feel comfortable with how straight his legs were (you want their legs in more of a splayed M shape, not straight like an l or capital I).

For Newborns with Lumbar Support: Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier

The Ergobaby Embrace carrier is newer to the baby carrier market than the BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini – but is a TOP contender and our personal favorite.

For my baby, I found it had a much better hip placement in the 7-10 lbs range compared to the BABYBJÖRN Mini, truly making it a newborn carrier. It also feels much more supportive with the low back strap.

While both carriers feature a cross back for support, the Embrace carrier feels more supportive as it splays on the shoulders and you can easily adjust the cross back (the BABYBJÖRN you need to position the X before getting baby in or have someone help you adjust it once baby is in).

The Ergobaby Embrace carrier comes in 6 colors, and is a polyester, rayon, spandex blend that is soft to the touch, breathable, and machine washable. I found that is also perfectly positioned baby for breastfeeding in the carrier without much adjusting.

For Plus Size Moms: Tula Baby Carrier

With six positions and a large weight support from seven to 45 pounds, this Tula Baby Carrier is a great pick that can grow with your child from the newborn stage all the way to age four if need be. You also get a removable mesh hood which provides sun protection or privacy while nursing. 

There’s also mesh in the main panel, ensuring plenty of breathability for your baby. And if you dislike structured carriers that feel bulky, you’ll like that this one has a smaller profile, yet with a waistband that grows from 27 to 57″ for both petite and plus size moms.

---

---

How To Choose The Best Baby Carrier For Breastfeeding Moms:

It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the baby carrier options out there but they are saviors for moms in so many ways! They encourage skin to skin bonding, calm fussy babies, promote better sleep, and let mom go hands-free for a bit to get things done around the house or out and about.

If you plan to nurse in a baby carrier, it requires a few extra things to think about and test out in finding your perfect fit.

Keep in mind, many moms opt for more than just one carrier.

Style

There are a few different styles of baby carriers. Each has benefits and drawbacks depending on what works for you. The most common styles you’ll find as you shop for a carrier include: 

• Structured Carrier: This is probably what comes to mind when you think babywearing. They feature a mix of buckles and straps typically with an adjustable padded hip belt and shoulder straps, offering good support for your back and shoulders. These usually work for babies from newborn to toddler stages with multiple positions. However they tend to be a little bulkier and warmer than some other options.
• Wrap Carrier: A baby wrap is a one size fits all, long piece of fabric you tie around your body. While learning to tie a baby wrap can feel intimidating at first, once you get the hang of it, it's pretty easy and does offer shoulder and cross back support, as well as a little low back support depending on where you tie it off. They come in a wide variety of materials, making them ideal for keep baby and you comfortable in hot or cold climates. With that said, there is a subgroup of pre-done wrap carriers that go off your t-shirt size and are NOT one size fits all. These basically eliminate the need to tie anything, and just slip over your head like a shirt, making them an easy learning curve.
• Mei Tai: A happy medium between buckled and wrap carriers that still features a more structured sitting area for baby but features long sashes to tie around the wearer’s back. However, this pick offers less privacy and may need to be paired with a nursing cover. 
• Ring Sling: A ring sling baby carrier is a long piece of fabric with a circular ring that it loops into. They are considered easier to use than a wrap carrier and give you the option to wear baby on your chest, hip, or back. These can be easier to adjust while wearing baby compared to a wrap carrier.

Safety

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends safe babywearing for soothing, bonding, and nurturing baby's development.¹ Just keep hip positioning, your babies ability to breathe, and their heat levels in mind.

When it comes to baby wearing safety is a #1 priority. You'll want to first check the carriers supported weight range. Next, we highly recommend watching a tutorial video to ensure you've adjusted all the straps, buckles, or ties correctly. You should feel secure and supported. If you feel any discomfort at all, stop baby wearing and speak with a healthcare professional.

In addition, in the early postpartum days we suggest speaking with your healthcare provider or seeing a physical therapist to ensure you're engaging the proper muscles. During those early weeks and months, you still have a ton of hormones like relaxin floating through your body, which is still unstable from pregnancy and giving birth. Improper babywearing can increase your odds of a prolapsed pelvic organ.

Once you feel comfortable you'll want to double check a few things to make sure your baby is safely positioned too. Their legs should NOT be straight down. Instead you want their hips sprawled out like they are hugging you and creating an M formation.

Lastly, you want to ensure you are only wearing baby in a position that's appropriate for their age, weight, and height of the carrier. For instance, do not put a newborn on your back! Make sure their necks are supported until they've mastered neck control.

For added safety, we suggest bringing your baby and baby carrier to a pediatric chiropractor trained in the Webster method to assess babies position while nursing in the baby carrier.

Support

If you have a history of back pain you may appreciate a supportive low back strap.

And in my personal opinion, thanks to technology and everyone always looking down out their phones and not at your new baby, you'll want good shoulder support too. Look for a baby carrier where the shoulder straps cross in an X at the back between the shoulder blades. You may also like shoulder straps that splay out, covering the entire shoulder, instead of just running straight up like a tank top.

Comfort

This will be unique to you, so definitely try on a few different styles. Some people prefer more padding a structured carrier offers, others prefer the blanket like hug of a baby wrap.

You'll also want to consider material of the baby carrier and climate. Choose something that's breathable and apprioriate for the types of weather you deal with regularly.

Ease of Use

It’s normal to experience a slight learning curve if this is your first time trying to use a baby carrier. But ideally, you’ll want to look for a style that you can easily manage by yourself. Additionally, if more than one person will be using the carrier, ensure that it can be easily adjusted to provide a secure fit — no matter who’s wearing it.

Privacy

Even though most states have laws that protect the rights of breastfeeding mothers in public, you might prefer a little privacy while feeding your baby. So, if you’re not comfortable with the chances of being exposed, look for baby carriers that offer more coverage. However, keep in mind that you can always pair your favorite baby carrier with a nursing cover if you prefer.

Cost

Baby carriers can range from anywhere between $40 to $200. Like we mentioned earlier, many women opt to have more than one baby carrier as well, so keep that in mind when planning your baby registry or future budget.

Durability

You'll want something that will last for at least your babies first year, but ideally beyond that and for future kids (whether you choose to have them or hand down your baby carrier to a friend). Most established brands are designed from durable materials and offer warranties or customer satisfaction guarantees.

Cleaning

Especially if you're breastfeeding, things can get messy from time to time. Choose a baby carrier that you can easily clean if your baby spits up while out and is machine washable for when you get home. The last thing you want is to add handwashing a baby carrier to your already too long to-do list as a mom!

Best Baby Carriers To Nurse In

FAQS About Baby Carriers For Breastfeeding Moms

When to start using a baby carrier:

Most baby carriers are designed to be used even with newborns. However, always be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines for approved positions that are safe for newborns and whether or not an infant insert is required.

In most cases, brands will recommend that your baby should be at least seven pounds before putting them in a baby carrier. 

If you are breastfeeding in a baby carrier, you may need to provide additional support with at least one hand for smaller infants, until your baby is able to get themselves into a position to nurse safely and comfortably in the baby carrier.

Can you wear your baby too much?

While you technically can’t wear a baby too much, the reality is that your body and your baby will tell you if it’s too much.

In the first months postpartum, but especially the first few weeks, it's important to not overdo it. Your body is depleted in minerals and nutrients from giving birth, and you still have loads of hormones pumping through your body, especially when breastfeeding. Baby carrying is AMAZING, but during those first few weeks and months you're more prone to injury as well as a pelvic organic prolapse if baby wearing too much for your body. So it's REALLY important to listen to your body and slow down!

If you’re experiencing back pain, you might want to reduce the total amount of time you spend wearing your bundle of joy. 

Likewise, if your baby feels too warm or begins to fuss, that’s a good sign that they need a break from being in their carrier. 

Can I wear baby all day?

If you want to and are strong enough to, there’s nothing wrong with wearing your baby all day.

Especially in the newborn stage, having your baby close by can be a lot easier than running back and forth through the house every time they cry. Even the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that you can’t spoil an infant by holding them too much. 

Just be mindful of any additional back or shoulder pain or discomfort in your pelvic region. We suggest seeing a physical therapist specializing in women's health (specifically the pelvic floor) while pregnant and even postpartum so your core and stability are working properly and you can baby wear all day with the best foundation possible.

Are baby slings safe for newborns?

Yes, but there’s a caveat. You need to remember that newborns lack neck control, which means that you can’t leave them in positions (known as C positions) where their necks are bent. 

Along with ensuring that you’ve configured the sling in the approved position for newborns, you want to ensure that fabric isn’t covering their faces.

Avoid bending at the waist as this can force your baby into the C position. Bend at the knees and support your baby as you bend. 

Which baby carriers are best for newborns?

As long as the carrier can be configured into a position that provides neck support for your newborn and positions their hips safely, you can use it. This can include buckle carriers, wrap carriers, Tei Mais, and Ring Slings. 

Our personal favorite for newborns are the wrap carriers (specifically this one!) followed by semi structured carriers like this one; but it is a personal preference for you and baby!

Which is better: baby wrap or carrier?

As far as a breastfeeding baby carrier, I prefer a semi structured carrier like this one or a baby wrap.

Semi-structured carriers provide support that wraps lack, but are easier to adjust than a truly structured carrier.

Baby wraps are lightweight and can easily fit in a diaper bag. They allow you to maneuver baby with ease for nursing in them, or you can leave the wrap on, take baby out, and use the shoulder strap for privacy if nursing in public, without having to cover your baby with a blanket. Furthermore, they work great as swaddle blankets in a pinch or burp cloths when needed!

You can nurse in structured baby carriers too, but in our experience there's a bit more of a learning curve and they take a bit more adjusting.

Ultimately, it's whichever version you prefer. It's most important to make sure you and baby are comfortable, secure, and safely positioned.

Can you breastfeed with a baby sling?

Yes, you can breastfeeding in a baby sling. In fact, it's one of the easiest breastfeeding baby carrier styles in our experience since it most similarly mimics a laid back nursing position or cradle hold.

In addition, you can adjust the cloth for privacy. 

Can you breastfeed with a baby wrap?

Yes you can nurse in a baby wrap. You'll just want to be mindful of babies hip positioning and both of your overall comfort, security, and support.

At first, you will likely feel more comfortable keeping at least one hand on baby while nursing in this type of baby carrier and slowly practicing walking at the same time as nursing before moving to hands free nursing in a baby carrier.

Can you breastfeed in a baby carrier?

Yes, structured baby carriers can be worn to breastfeed. They are the easiest carrier for hands free nursing and walking at the same time as they provide the most structured support. However they have the biggest learning curve in our experience.

How do you breastfeed in a baby carrier?

Breastfeeding in a baby carrier may take a few tries to find a position that works best for you, but it can be done. It’s best to test out positions and carriers at home, when baby is well rested and happy before trying it when you’re on the go. 

Begin by positioning your baby so that they’re facing your chest. But be sure that they can still breathe comfortably! Soft carriers may make it easier for you to adjust your baby lower as needed so that they’re in the right position. You'll also want either a soft carrier or a little give where their head is so they can unlatch if needed – you don't want them pressed to hard against your boob!

Adjust + be patient!

You’ll most likely need to adjust your breast by hand so that your baby can reach it and begin to latch. So, it’s a good idea to wear nursing clothes or tops with stretchy necklines that allow for easy access — especially when you have limited working space. 

Some carriers may need you to unbuckle or loosen a strap on the side where you plan to feed. Once they’ve successfully latched, you can tighten the straps on a buckle carrier to provide a secure hold while they’re nursing.

Depending on the baby carrier you selected, you may want a nursing cover to give you a bit of privacy while your baby nurses. 

After they’re done nursing, you can use your hand to remove your breast, adjust clothing as needed, and reposition them and your baby carrier.

Final Thoughts on breastfeeding carriers:

Baby carriers are so essential as you adjust to life as a mom. They help calm fussy babies, extend naps, and can even give you a little time back if you learn nurse in a baby carrier.

Especially if you want to breastfeed on the go, a good carrier gives you access to nurse while also providing a bit of privacy.

Which baby carrier is best for breastfeeding?

The best baby carrier for breastfeeding in is the ErgoBaby Embrace semi-structured carrier. While it lacks privacy of a baby wrap, it is the most secure hold with the easiest adjustment.

The best baby carrier wrap in our experience is the Solly Baby Wrap. It's SO lightweight and breathable to ensure baby is comfortable and limit the likelihood of overheating. It also is stretchy – yet not too stretchy- giving baby both support and the ability to move as needed while nursing.

Our favorite structured baby carrier for breastfeeding is either one of the newborn carriers (this one if you do not have a history of back pain and this one if you do) or either the Lillebaby Original 6-in-1 Baby Carrier or the ErgoBaby Omni 360 All Position Baby Carrier. The newborn carriers won't last as long as the latter two options, but they are way less bulky and much easier to put on and get started baby wearing if you're new to it!