Nursing can be time-consuming in those early days, even for second, third, and fourth-time moms, as you and your new baby learn together. Babywearing allows you to simultaneously feed baby on demand and tackle your long to-do list. We’ve rounded up some of the best baby carriers for breastfeeding to help you in your journey.
Best Baby Carrier for Breastfeeding
The LILLEbaby, honeyroo, and FRUITEAM carriers offer 6 different ways of carrying baby compared to the other baby carriers. The Boba Carrier features a quick release breastfeeding buckle that wasn’t seen on the other carriers.
BABYBJORN Baby Carrier One
The BABYBJORN Baby Carrier One is a favorite of moms and dads for its sleek design and comfortable carrying positions.
The BABYBJORN soft structured carrier is one size fits all and accommodates wearers of all sizes and heights, as well as babies. The carrier is designed for newborns to toddlers up to 36 months.
Many moms say they’ve found success in breastfeeding their babies in an upright position using the BABYBJORN Baby Carrier One. Baby’s positioning inside the carriers makes it optimal for nursing. However, many mothers recommend wearing the appropriate clothing to make the breast accessible.
The great thing about the BABYBJORN Baby Carrier One is that you do not need an infant insert to use this from birth. It allows four ergonomic carrying options: newborn, baby facing in, baby facing out, and back carrying (recommended for 12 months and up).
The padded shoulder straps and waist belt ensure a comfortable fit. There is a small zippered pocket at the waist to hold a phone, keys, or a snack.
The cotton fabric is machine washable.
RELATED: BabyBjorn Carrier One, One Air, Mini & Free Baby Carrier Review: Which Suits You?
FRUITEAM 6-in-1 Baby Carrier
The FRUITEAM 6-in-1 Baby Carrier is a great, affordable option. It is markedly less expensive than some of the more popular brands on the market, and this carrier will grow with your baby.
What makes the FRUITEAM 6-in-1 Baby Carrier unique is the waist stool. The carrier comes with a seat that your baby sits on rather than having them hanging. The seat accommodates newborns up to 36 months of age.
There are multiple carrying options, but the one that breastfeeding mothers may find most useful is the cradle position. The FRUITEAM Carrier works similarly to a supportive nursing pillow. If you leave the house, you can take this one item to help you nurse and to give baby a comfortable spot to nap.
The carrier comes with a convenient zippered pouch that is large enough to hold your phone and keys. It also includes an anti-UV shade and breathable mesh front panel.
Boba Baby Carrier Classic
The Boba Baby Carrier Classic comes with a detachable infant insert, so you can start using this carrier from day one without having to purchase an additional accessory.
The Boba Baby Carrier Classic accommodates newborns as small as 7 pounds with the use of the integrated infant insert, which acts as a booster seat and maintains ergonomic positions. The carrier can be used with children up to 45 pounds.
The only way to breastfeed in this carrier is with baby in an upright position. The great thing about the Boba Baby Carrier Classic is that it comes with free extenders for both the waist and chest, so larger chested moms should be able to nurse more comfortably.
The carrier fits parents from 5 feet to 6’3″ in height and a 25 to a 58-inch waist.
One potential downside is this carrier can only be used when baby is facing you and when baby is on your back. There is no front, facing out option.
Other convenient features include a pocket on the waist belt for your phone and other personal belongings and a purse strap holder to keep your diaper bag on your shoulder. The hood pocket is also spacious enough for a pacifier.
honeyroo Baby Carrier Joey Classic
Your back and shoulders will appreciate the honeyroo Baby Carrier.
This carrier can be used in six ways: as a waistband with a hip seat, as a single sling carrier or combined as a whole baby carrier. You can also try a few variations and directions for your baby to face.
The easiest way to nurse a newborn will be to utilize the waistband hip seat function. You won’t be hands-free, but the seat serves as a nursing pillow to support your baby’s weight. The large padded, Velcro waistband provides great lumbar support.
Used as a full carrier, the seat for baby ensures ergonomic positioning and takes some of the pressure off your back. Your little one can nurse in the upright position in the full carrier once they have more head and neck control.
There is a convenient zippered pocket for your belongings and durable mesh fabric for breathability and airflow to your baby.
LÍLLÉbaby 360° Ergonomic Baby and Child Carrier
The LÍLLÉbaby 360° Ergonomic Baby and Child Carrier is a parent favorite with thousands of rave reviews.
This soft structured carrier allows your little one to be carried in six different positions, starting from newborn to toddlerhood. LÍLLÉbaby also offers an “all seasons” version of this carrier that has an all mesh front panel for maximum airflow. It’s a thoughtful feature for families who live in hot, tropical climates.
As far as breastfeeding goes, you can nurse baby in an upright position. Just like other soft structured carriers, make sure the shoulder straps are lengthened when feeding, so that baby can latch comfortably. When he or she is done eating, you can scoot baby back up.
The LÍLLÉbaby carrier also includes a large storage pocket, a removable sleeping hood that can double as a privacy shield when nursing, and an extendable torso.
Tula Baby Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier
The Tula Baby Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier is an upgrade of other Tula Baby carriers in that you do not need an infant insert to wear newborns in the Free-to-Grow.
You will need to wait until your little one is at least 7 pounds. The Free-to-Grow features three width settings and two height settings to adjust to baby’s growing body.
The height adjustments are great features when it comes to nursing. Moms who’ve breastfed while wearing the Tula Baby Free-to-Grow say the carrier gives baby easy access to the breast and comes with a removable hood with snaps to provide extra privacy when nursing.
The Free-to-Grow is machine washable!
Ergobaby Multi-Position Original Baby Carrier
The Ergobaby Multi-Position Original Baby Carrier is a classic and much-loved carrier.
The Ergobaby Original is made of 100 percent cotton and is very soft and comfortable for baby. It has large, padded shoulder straps to evenly distribute weight and ensure comfort for long-term wear.
Baby can be nursed in an upright position. Parents absolutely love the extra-large zippered storage pocket that sits at baby’s back for keys, phone, snacks, hand sanitizer, and more.
The Ergobaby Original is designed for babies 12 pounds to 45 pounds. You will need an infant insert, which is purchased separately if you want to use this with newborns. Some complain the insert can be a bit bulky, but other moms have had no issue with it.
Best Meh Dai/Mei Tai Carriers for Breastfeeding
Infantino Sash Wrap and Tie Baby Carrier
The Infantino Sash Wrap and Tie Baby Carrier is an affordable option that is a mom favorite over many expensive carriers.
The Infantino Sash is designed after a centuries-old Chinese style of baby wearing called Mei Tai. It is a wrap and tie design that does not include buckles. The carrier is flexible and supports little ones ergonomically. It offers three different carrying positions: tummy to tummy, hip-hugger, and backpack.
While many newborns are breastfed in the recline position, nursing upright in the Infantino Sash is possible because the front panel sits higher to support the head and neck.
The best way to breastfeed using a Mei Tai is to loosen the shoulder straps and scoot baby’s seat down to achieve a good latch. The waist strap should remain fastened. Once baby is latched, you can tighten the straps to ensure a secure hold.
This carrier accommodates babies from 8 pounds up to 36 pounds. The Infantino Sash includes a detachable hood for sunshade and nap time.
Boppy ComfyChic Hybrid Baby Carrier
The Boppy ComfyChic Hybrid Baby Carrier combines a wrap and a carrier for extra protection and comfort. With four carrying positions, you can carry your baby your way.
Use the carrier with your newborn front facing with legs in the frog position, legs out, front-facing, or hip carry. A snuggle screen panel provides shade and even acts as a nursing cover for breastfeeding.
Furthermore, you can adjust the arm straps, toss the carrier in the washing machine, and pack it up in an integrated storage pouch. Use it for babies 8 to 35 pounds. No other baby carrier offers as much flexibility!
While it’s a little pricy and only comes in one color option, it offers everything you need with comfort in mind. It even has breathable panels for hot days.
Best Baby Sling for Breastfeeding
The Kids ‘N Such sling offers 5.5 yards of fabric whereas the Hip Baby Wrap offers about 2 yards and the Moby Ring Sling offers 2.36 yards.
Kids ‘N Such 4 in 1 Wrap and Baby Sling Carrier
You don’t have to choose between a wrap and ring sling carrier with the 4 in 1 Wrap and Baby Sling Carrier by Kids ‘N Such!
This product includes extra long fabric to use as a wrap carrier. It also comes with 2 metal rings to utilize as a ring sling carrier.
While you can breastfeed in both types of carriers, you should consider your baby’s age when considering which type to purchase. Newborn babies often nurse in the recline position and ring slings work best. Once babies are about 4 to 5 months, they have better head and neck control and should nurse in an upright position to help with digestion.
We love the versatility of the Kids ‘N Such Wrap and Ring Sling Carrier and that it will grow with your baby.
Kids ‘N Such has a free return policy and lifetime guarantee.
Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carrier
The Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carrier is another highly rated sling carrier.
It allows breastfed babies to nurse in the recline position and return upright once they are done eating. The Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling is very adjustable and offers a secure carry while breastfeeding. The slack on the carrier also provides coverage during nursing, if you want it.
Babies can also breastfeed in an upright position once they gain more head and neck control.
One tricky thing about ring slings is it only comes with one size so you cannot try out different lengths. However, it’s extremely affordable and made of cotton with tons of color choices. Hold babies from 8 to 35 pounds in this gorgeous sling.
Moby Ring Sling
From the makers of one of the most popular baby wrap carriers comes the Ring Sling by Moby.
The Moby Ring Sling provides hands-free support to moms who want to hold babies close while running errands. Moby says its ring sling carrier is comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. One criticism of ring slings is they tend to put pressure on the shoulder when the rings are placed.
The Moby Ring Sling works for newborn babies. It is important to note, however, that Moby does not recommend nursing while baby is in the cradle position in the ring sling. The company says it is easy for little ones’ chins to get compressed to their chest, which makes it hard to breathe.
Many reviewers love to use the Moby Ring Sling for slightly older babies. Upright nursing is a breeze for babies who are accustomed to it. The fabric is strong and thick, which makes carrying toddlers more comfortable.
Best Baby Wrap for Breastfeeding
Unlike the other baby wraps, the CuddleBug and Boba Wrap is designed with cotton and some spandex for stretch. These wraps can hold babies up to 35-36 pounds except for the KeaBabies Wrap which can only hold babies up to 25 pounds.
The Boba Wrap Baby Carrier gets rave reviews from breastfeeding moms who need to nurse on the go and in public. The material acts as a privacy shield to keep you and baby comfortable.
The Boba Wrap works similarly to other wrap carriers. You find the center of the extra-long fabric and tie it once around your waist. Then create an X on your back, bringing the panels over each shoulder. Be sure to keep the fabric as flat as possible for even weight distribution.
Then tuck the ends of the wrap into the front panel and cross. Wrap around your waist and tie in a knot.
Your baby will sit in the X that was created in the front of your body. When placing baby in the wrap, their face should be visible and their head close enough to kiss. However, when breastfeeding, it is OK to scoot baby down in the seat to position for a good latch. You and your baby should still be tummy to tummy.
Note: your baby will be nursing in an upright position, rather than a cradle position. The upright position may require you to hold and position your breast. While you won’t be completely hands-free, you will have one hand available!
Once your baby is done eating, you should scoot him or her back up and tighten straps as necessary. It is best to breastfeed in the Boba Wrap once baby has a bit more neck control.
The Boba Wrap is made of 95 percent cotton with a bit of spandex for stretch and flexibility. It accommodates babies from birth up to 35 pounds.
The wrap is easy to wash. Simply throw it in the washing machine to clean spit-up stains.
Some nursing moms noted that it can get rather hot when wearing the wrap for extended periods of time outside. This is not unique to the Boba Wrap, however. All carriers – wraps and structured – can be uncomfortable in the sweltering heat.
Moby Wrap Baby Carrier
The Moby Wrap Baby Carrier is another favorite of nursing moms.
Nursing in the upright position works similarly to the Boba Wrap above. On Moby’s website, the company says it is safest to take baby out of the Moby when feeding horizontally.
However, many moms have found success in maneuvering baby safely into the cradle position in the Moby when it is time to breastfeed. There are many tutorials on YouTube to look up.
The important thing to know with all carriers is that baby’s airway should never be blocked. Even though the fabric is breathable, make sure baby’s nose and mouth are not covered in the wrap. Also, baby’s head, neck, and bottom should always be supported.
Breastfeeding moms won’t be completely hands-free, but the wrap releases some of the strain on your arms and shoulders as you are out and about.
The Moby accommodates babies from birth to 35 pounds and comes with clear directions for all types of holds.
Baby K’tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier
The Baby K’tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier is a wrap without the wrapping!
Unlike other wraps that are made of one extra-large piece of fabric, the Baby K’tan is made of two connecting loops of fabric. You put on this wrap similar to how you’d put on a t-shirt.
Nursing in the Baby K’tan Wrap works similarly to other wrap carriers. Feeding in the upright position is recommended. The wrap helps mom by helping to support the weight of the baby, allowing her to walk around and have one hand free if needed.
Your child can be held snugly in the Baby K’tan Wrap in five different positions. It accommodates babies from newborns up to 35 pounds.
One thing to note about the Baby K’tan Wrap: the unique design makes it so that it is not easily adjustable to different sizes. If mom and dad are different heights, buying two sizes of the Baby K’tan may be required.
KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier
The KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier makes nursing on the go easy and discreet.
When wrapping for breastfeeding, it’s best to tie the fabric around your hip, rather than the upper waist, to get a good latch. The fabric is made of a stretchy but sturdy material, so you can rest assured that your little one will be safe. And so will your back!
KeaBabies says babywearing promotes breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact releases hormones to help boost milk production.
The KeaBabies Wrap can also double as a nursing cover.
CuddleBug Baby Wrap Sling and Carrier
The CuddleBug Baby Wrap allows you to nurse while wearing baby. It also works as a privacy shield if you want to take baby out of the carrier for feeding.
Like other wrap carriers, Cuddlebug says baby should remain upright if he or she is in the carrier and breastfeeding. Otherwise, moms can take baby out and use the X as a cover-up while nursing.
The Cuddlebug Wrap is made of French terry cotton and spandex, which allows it to hold its shape. This wrap carrier promotes ergonomic hip development and growth.
Baby Carriers for Breastfeeding Compared
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
| LÍLLÉbaby 360° Ergonomic Baby and Child Carrier | 4.9 | - | 199.99 |
| Boba Baby Carrier Classic | 7.6 | 9.2 | 99.99 |
| Baby K'tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier | 9.8 | 8.4 | 69.95 |
| FRUITEAM 6-in-1 Baby Carrier | 9.6 | 9.0 | 55.99 |
| Moby Ring Sling | 9.2 | 8.2 | 51.00 |
| Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carrier | 9.5 | 8.8 | 49.95 |
| Boppy ComfyChic Hybrid Baby Carrier | 9.8 | 9.0 | 49.74 |
| Best Baby Wrap for Breastfeeding | 9.9 | 9.0 | 44.99 |
| Moby Wrap Baby Carrier | 9.8 | 9.0 | 44.99 |
| CuddleBug Baby Wrap Sling and Carrier | 9.6 | 8.8 | 29.99 |
| KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier | 9.9 | 9.0 | 26.96 |
| BABYBJORN Baby Carrier One | 3.9 | 9.2 | - |
| Infantino Sash Wrap and Tie Baby Carrier | 4.6 | 8.4 | - |
| Ergobaby Multi-Position Original Baby Carrier | 3.9 | 9.2 | - |
| Kids 'N Such 4 in 1 Wrap and Baby Sling Carrier | 6.9 | 8.6 | - |
| Tula Baby Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier | 4.2 | 9.4 | - |
| honeyroo Baby Carrier Joey Classic | 5.3 | - | - |
The Different Types of Baby Carriers
Before we dive into the best baby carriers for nursing, let’s explore the four different types of baby carriers available and the pros and cons of each. Choosing the right type of carrier for you will depend on how often you plan to use the carrier, where you live (hot or cold climate), comfort level, etc. Our list includes carriers from each category.
Wrap Carriers
Wrap carriers are made of a long piece of fabric and require some maneuvering. It comes with a learning curve to figure out how to tie the straps around your body and baby, but once you master it, baby wraps are an ideal choice from the newborn stage to keep babies snug and comfortable.
Many other carriers require an insert for tiny newborn babies to fit securely, but wraps allow you to use them from day one with your little one. Babies can comfortably snooze away in their familiar frog-like position (knees up and out) as they did in the womb.
Wraps are adjustable and customizable to your specific body type and shape.
As mentioned, wrap carriers take some practice to learn to tie, which might be daunting for sleep-deprived moms. The fabric, while breathable and stretchy, is still another layer of clothing, so wraps may not be the most comfortable option for families who live in hot, humid climates.
Ring Sling Carriers
Ring sling carriers are similar to wrap carriers in that both are made of a long piece of fabric. The difference though lies in the material. Ring slings are typically made of cotton or linen that does not have much stretch. On the other hand, wraps are made of stretchy fabric.
Another difference is that ring slings do not require any tying. Instead, they come with two rings to loop and thread the fabric through. Once you place the baby in the sling, his or her weight will keep the fabric from slipping.
Ring slings are great for breastfeeding because they offer support to the baby and also allows you to adjust to find the most comfortable fit.
However, unlike wraps and other carrier types, ring slings do tend to put some pressure on the shoulders. They are not recommended for mothers with back problems or shoulder pain.
Soft Structured Carriers
Soft-structured carriers are foolproof. No tying nor looping. Simply buckle the straps and you and your baby are good to go.
Soft-structured carriers come with padded shoulder straps, a front panel made of fabric, waist support, and buckles that go across the back or chest, depending on baby’s position. Once inside the pouch, soft structured carriers offer proper support for baby’s hips, thighs, and knees.
The buckles are adjustable, ensuring mom, dad, grandma or other caregivers can wear the carrier comfortably. They are made of less fabric, so it tends to be a bit more comfortable in warmer weather.
However, some baby carriers are not suitable for babies who do not yet have proper head control. This skill typically develops around 4 to 5 months. Some carriers require the use of an infant insert for younger babies. In my experience, the insert tends to be bulky and is yet another thing to carry around.
If considering a soft structured carrier for use on day one, find one that is safe to use without an infant insert.
Meh Dai, also known as Mei Tai, Carriers
If you combined a wrap and soft structured carrier, you would get a Meh Dai or Mei Tai Carrier. This carrier has a front fabric panel, but instead of buckles, it comes with straps to ties around the body.
The Meh Dai/Mei Tai got its name in China, which is where this specific carrier originated from.
This carrier is also easily adjustable, but like wrap carriers, it requires a bit of practice to get the ties just right.
FAQs – Baby Carriers For Breastfeeding
Which type of baby carrier is best for breastfeeding?
There are important considerations when choosing which of the four types of baby carriers is best for you and your little one.
First and foremost: how old is your child? If you have a newborn, nursing in a ring sling carrier or a soft structured carrier with a detachable hip seat may be most comfortable. Many young babies prefer to feed in a recline position.
If you have an older infant with a strong neck and head control, breastfeeding in the upright position is recommended in carriers. Soft-structured carriers are great options. Also, if you are petite, you may enjoy a baby carrier for petite moms.
Which baby carriers are best for newborns?
Wrap carriers are wonderful for newborns. The cozy tie mimics the womb and keeps baby close to your chest. Many experts say babywearing helps promote breastfeeding because of the increased skin-to-skin contact. Wrap carriers may get to be a bit uncomfortable as your baby gets older and more mobile.
Ring slings are also great for newborns. The fit is similar to wrap carriers without complicated tying.
If you choose a soft structured carrier, be sure it can accommodate newborns. Many soft structured carriers require infant inserts to fit smaller babies. Soft-structured carriers are great because you can get longer use out of them as babies get older.
What should I consider when buying a baby carrier?
You may only wear your baby for a few minutes a day while you get some quick chores done. Or your little one may have colic and only wants to be held. How long you will be wearing baby each day is something you should consider. For example, ring slings can start to dig into your shoulder and add pressure if you wear them for too long. Soft-structured carriers offer more support to the lumbar, which is designed for longer wear.
If you care to have more privacy when you breastfeed, the extra fabric on ring slings can double as a nursing cover. Many soft structured carriers also include detachable hoods for sunshades that can also work as a privacy cover.
