6 Amazing Toddler Carriers For Child’s Safety And Parents’ Comfort

There are different kinds of child carriers in the market today. These carriers are designed to cater to children at different stages. Infant carriers cater to small children that are delicate and unable to hold themselves up. Baby carriers are the next step for children who are able to hold their heads and sit up. Then we have toddler carriers that are created to see to the comfort of both the caregiver and the child. The best toddler carrier is created to provide mobility and entertainment for the child as they take in the surroundings. The parent gets to walk around with the toddler without the constant stress of the child’s weight. It also allows parents to get a few things done in the meantime.

As parents, you always want the best for your children even when working on a budget. To get the best deal means considering the age of the child, the varied positions available and also the amount of room provided for the child to sit in. One also has to look at the weight capacity and the materials used to determine whether the child will be safe.

Top 6 Toddler Carriers Review 2020

There is so much information that you could use that we decided to compile it for you. After a few days of researching manuals and pouring over product descriptions here is what we found. We have compiled the information into detailed product reviews, a comparison table and, of course, a buying guide. Allow yourself to pour into this review and by the end of it, buying a toddler carrier will seem like a test you always pass.

Keep your child close – why do you need a toddler carrier

There are a couple of reasons why people gravitate to toddler carriers. Some of these reasons include:

Types of toddler carriers

Below are some of the more popular baby carriers in the market.

Wraps

Wraps are simple and just need you to wrap the baby around you securing the ends. Wraps happen to be good for newborns as it doesn’t force them to stay in unnatural positions. You can get wraps in a wide range of fabrics and colors without breaking your bank. They are easy to adjust according to the user and they are easy to clean. The only downside is that it may take time for a beginner to get used to the different ways of using wraps.

Pouch Sling

A pouch sling is a simplified version of a ring sling. The only difference is that the pouch sling lacks the rings to secure and adjust the fabric. These pouch slings come in premade sizes so it makes it difficult for people with larger/smaller body sizes than yours unable to use the item. They, however, make good carriers for newborns especially if you place them on the hip.

Buckle carrier

These are soft structured carriers appropriate for babies who have mastered head and neck control. These carriers come with a padded sitting compartment and adjustable straps to ensure that the baby is well positioned. Be sure to select a unit that has a wide sitting area so as not to stress the toddler’s legs or groin area. These are rather high price items, therefore, make room in your budget.

Mei dai carrier

These carriers are a functional hybrid between the wrap and the buckle carriers. They possess the sitting structure of a muckle carrier to buy the arms of a wrap which makes it highly adjustable. The padded hands need to be wrapped around your body to secure the child, the good thing is that these arms can be fitted around other caregivers. These carriers are good for children of different ages but it may take some time to get the hang of it.

Ring Sling

 Ring sling carriers usually possess rings that fasten the material and creates a pouch-like area for the child to sit. Since ring slings always come with long fabrics, the rings can be used to adjust the fabric so as to fit the size of the child. These units do not use stretchy fabric rather they make use of materials like cotton and linen. The only downside to these carriers is that it may strain your back especially if the child is heavy. Remember to watch the free ends so as to prevent them from dragging on the floor.

Backpack carriers

As the name suggests, these carriers look like backpacks. Your child sits on the provided seating compartment and they have a frame to protect them. These types are not for newborns rather for children who already have good coordination. If you happen to be the kind of people who enjoy outdoor activities then this is the perfect carrier. The Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier is a good example of these carriers. It comes with adequate storage and a kickback stand.

How to securely fit a toddler carrier

This is how to securely use a toddler carrier:

• See to it that the carrier fits your torso by adjusting the straps. The waist belt should settle on your hip bones.
• Fasten the hip belt so as to offer more stability.
• Adjust the load-lifter straps and sternum straps until they fit, make sure that it’s not too tight curtail your breathing.
• Fit the child through the carrier feet first.
• Fasten all the straps and buckles ensuring that the child is comfortable.
• Adjust the seat to make sure the child is not hanging low.
• Check the straps and fabric to see if it has pinched the child’s skin.
• To get your child off the carrier undo the straps and hoist it off your back like you would do a backpack. If you are unable to do this, call someone for some help.

How to use a toddler carrier

Here are a few tips that will show you how to use a toddler carrier:

• Avoid using the carrier when engaging in high energy/ dangerous outdoor activities.

  Never leave the child unattended.

  Regularly check to see if the child’s limbs and neck are comfortable.

  Avoid leaving the child inside the carrier on top of high surfaces.

  Use carriers whose structure is not compromised. Tears or breaks in the frame may cause unwanted accidents.

  Get fabrics that are breathable so that the child is not sitting in uncomfortable heat.

  Don’t let the child eat inside the carrier to avoid choking hazards.

  Keep toys in their designated keyholes/compartment so as to keep the child away from choking on the go.

  Safety tips on using a toddler carrier

  Safety as always is a priority for many parents. The first step is to get an age-appropriate carrier that can support the needs of the child. If it is a toddler then you have to see to it that it can support the baby’s head so that their air pathways remain clear. By using the acronym TICKS you can always see to it that your baby is safe in the carrier.

  T-tight, I-in view at all times, C-close enough to kiss, K-keep the chin off the chest, and S-support the back. Always dress the child well enough to keep up with the current weather because you don’t want the child to be too hot/cold.

  Features to consider while buying the perfect toddler carrier

  Here are a few things that you should put to mind when you are getting a new carrier or picking up a gift for someone.

  Size

  Size matters to both you and the toddler. If your baby is tall or short, you need to find a unit that will suit their limbs and overall body size. If you happen to be of short stature, you need to pick a carrier whose hip band does not go over your pelvic bones.

  Material

  The last thing you want is uncomfortable fabric for your child’s smooth skin. Choose non-toxic materials that are soft and offer good breathability. Mesh fabrics are particularly preferred for day walks as they allow the child to get ventilation, so you may want to opt for the LÍLLÉbaby 3 in 1 CarryOn Toddler Carrier. Cotton blends, nylon, and linen are most preferable as they absorb sweat leaving the child dry. Other synthetic fibers will leave the child sweaty and uncomfortable on warm days.

  Weight

  Carrying a child especially a healthy heavy one can be tasking. It is additionally harder if the carrier itself is a bit heavy. The heaviness may stem from the design of the carrier or from the heavy padding added. You want to buy a well-structured carrier that is light enough to make the walk both comfortable for you and the baby.

  Weight capacity

  Every carrier has a maximum weight limit that it can handle without endangering the child or straining the caregiver. This weight limit allows the carrier to last for longer and also keep the child safe. Carrying a child that is over the weight limit will end up ripping some seams or weakening the buckles. It is not good news either for your shoulders and back as the undistributed weight of the child pulls on those muscles.  Always check the weight capacity before purchasing the item to make sure that it is fit for the child.

  Age appropriate

  There is a reason why manufacturers design age-appropriate carriers. They have to make sure that the child is comfortable and safe at all stages. Newborns need more support than toddlers as they lack proper neck and head balance. If they fall asleep in the wrong position that could prove disastrous. There are carriers that come with inserts so as to support newborns delicate bodies. The insert is removed to offer more room for the growing child. Toddlers need carriers that let them look around comfortably without having to tilt their head all the time.

  Carrying positions

  A carrier that allows you to switch your child’s position is a good one. There is basically a maximum of four positions that you can use. The hip is usually appropriate for newborns as well as the front facing in. The front facing out allows the child to explore the world with their eyes as well as the back facing out. Depending on the position and age of the child, choose the one that is most comfortable for the child. For example, the Beco Gemini Baby Carrier and the Ergobaby Carrier 360 can be worn in any position comfortable for the parent.

  Safety features

  Some features found in a carrier are just there to make the child more comfortable. These include:

  • Padded straps- provide stability, comfort, and
  • Adjustable straps- make it easier to maintain a bond with your child through tender kisses on the forehead.
  • Non-toxic fabrics- keep the child safe from exposure to bad chemicals as they have a tendency to nibble or anything they see.
  • Wide seats – allow the child to sit comfortably without drooping their legs.
  • Clear space- sees to it that the child is kept away from any choking hazards.

  Baby-friendly accessories

  Not all brands will the time to offer accessories so those brands that do steadily become favorites. Some brands will choose to offer adequate storage space and even go further to offer thermally insulated pockets to keep the baby’s bottle warm. There are brands that will provide rain covers or sun shades just to see that your child is protected. There are some who will offer diaper changing mats or go as far as giving loops where toys can be hang. Depending on the features that you may need, shop accordingly.

  Parent’s back-supporting features

  As the caregiver, you also need support so as not to strain your back. It is best to seek carriers that offer adequate lumbar support. Features such as a wide waistband allow the babies weight to be equally distributed, like in LÍLLÉbaby 3 in 1 CarryOn Toddler Carrier. A well-padded body is essential to reducing the stress you feel on your shoulders carrying the weight around. A carrier that places the child around your center of gravity makes a good option if you already have back issues.

  Durability

  Durability goes back to the materials used to create the carrier. High-quality materials last longer even when strained continuously. Cheap carriers will have defects after a short time as they are not built to last. Repairing any damage when it appears will go a long way in extending the durability of the item.

  Comfort

  Whether it is a short trip or long trip, the comfort of the child always matters. Padded sits, angled droop pads, stirrups, and roomy cockpits are some of the features that would leave your child in a comfortable state. Read the manual to make sure that everything is put together right so that your child remains comfortable.

  Feel free to add something you think is important and relevant, and please mention some of the products reviewed as examples in the buying guide, where appropriate.

FAQ

Our Verdict

The LÍLLÉbaby 3 in 1 CarryOn Toddler Carrier proved to be the best as it is well priced for all the features provided. We especially note the breathable material used and the design allows the child to be placed centrally offering the caregiver some comfort.

The Osprey Packs Poco AG Plus Child Carrier is the only one that offered loops for hanging toys and we all know how fussy toddlers can be. We appreciate the comfortable cockpit as it allows the child to survey the surroundings.

The BABYBJORN Baby Carrier One is our budget buy because it offers quality features for a good price. It is JPMA certified ensuring that no toxic materials are exposed to your child.

All the products presented here have features that some of you really want. Don’t be shy, the heart wants what it wants. Grab the best toddler carrier for your child and enjoy their company as you go about your day.