No more crappy thermometers

Flu season is approaching, and wouldn’t you know it, all three of my little ones seem to be coming down with something. There’s nothing more pitiful or helpless than a sick baby. For me, the worst part is the not knowing: are we dealing with a baby that’s sick, an ear infection, or just allergies? Should we call the pediatrician or take the baby in? When we do call, the first thing they always seem to ask is whether or not the baby is having a fever.

The problem is that those cute little baby thermometers they give you in the hospital don’t work for crap when we leave the hospital. I feel stupid telling the nurse over the phone “Well, he sure feels warm, but his temperature is 94.” It’s ridiculous. Compare that to the pediatrician’s office, where they wave a high-tech handheld thermometer somewhere in the vicinity of my baby’s forehead. It beeps almost instantly, taking a super-accurate temperature that’s right on the money.

Why Digital/Infrared Baby Thermometers?

I want one of those, and I just found out, I can get it. Amazon has two bestselling digital baby thermometers: the Braun Thermoscan (an ear thermometer) and the Feverwatch non-contact thermometer. Both are under $40 with free shipping. Below I compare their features in some detail, but first, let’s talk about some good reasons to invest in a good baby thermometer.

1. Accurate temperature reading. That’s number one. I’d like to finally sound competent on the phone with the doctor’s office.
2. Fast temperature taking. The little hospital thermometers seem to take forever when you’re trying to pin them in a squirming baby’s armpit. These measure temps in just a few seconds.
3. Know and record baby temperatures. These will even save the most recent temperatures, so you can track your baby’s fever as it rises and falls.
4. Take baby’s temperature without a fight. Either an ear measurement or a non-contact model will go much better than the traditional ways of temperature-taking.

Baby Thermometer Reviews

Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer With Exactemp Technology The Braun Thermoscan ear thermometer is used by more doctor’s offices than any other, according to their claims. This device features a patented “pre-warmed” tip and measures temperature on the eardrum, yielding very accurate results. When you’ve taken a proper temperature, it lights up and emits a soft beep. This takes only a few seconds. The Thermoscan’s features include: Small, soft, flexible, pre-warmed tip. A guidance system to help you put the thermometer tip in the right place Memory function to store up to 8 recent results, so you can track temperature over time Disposable lens filters for sterile use with each measurement Oral, rectal or underarm use Includes: 2 AA batteries, 21 lens filters and thermometer tip cap

FeverWatch Professional Non-contact Infrared Thermometer This may be the best baby thermometer available to consumers, and I think it’s the model used by our pediatrician’s office. The FeverWatch non-contact infrared thermometer measures your baby’s temperature in less than 1 second with with 0.3 degree accuracy, all without touching the baby. You hold it 1-4 inches away from the forehead, click the button, and the temperature is taken. It’s kind of amazing that these devices work so well. The FeverWatch features: An intuitive guidance system to help you position it, and one-button operation A huge backlit LCD screen, so you can take temperature even in dark rooms. Very energy efficient: takes 100,000 temperatures on 2 AA batteries Stores up to 32 temperature readings for future reference. No touch, so no need for disposable tips and no risk of spreading germs! Imagine being able to tiptoe into the nursery while your little one sleeps and take his or her temperature without (1) turning on a light, or (2) touching the baby at all. Just brilliant.

If you don’t have a good baby thermometer, get one of them now! It’s free shipping, and should arrive just in time for the sore throat / coughing / runny noses.

Co-sleeping is a frequent practice in many families, but it’s also a safety concern. In some forms, co-sleeping is a good thing: sharing a room with your little one is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It lets you monitor their sleep more closely and watch for dangers, which helps reduce the risk of SIDS. What’s not recommended is sharing a bed with your baby, especially when older siblings are in bed with you too.

Co-Sleeping and SIDS

Sure, bed-sharing with babies is a common practice, and we certainly get enough comments from mothers who co-slept with all of their children and everything was just fine. Yes, that’s usually how it is. No one said that co-sleeping guaranteed SIDS. It just increases the odds, and needlessly! Just as putting your baby on his or her stomach to sleep, crib bumpers, or loose bedding, co-sleeping is something that puts your baby at risk and is completely preventable.

There are plenty of good reasons to begin transitioning your baby to sleep in the crib. It gives your baby a safe place of his or her own to sleep, while helping you with baby sleep training techniques. It’s also less work and worry when it’s time for your little one to go to bed. One of the reason more parents don’t do it is that making this transition is difficult, especially when you’re still breastfeeding at night. That’s where a co-sleeping crib, such as the Arm’s Reach Bassinet, can be invaluable.

A Safe Bed for Co-sleeping

The key innovation in co-sleeping beds is that they’re separate from your bed.

	Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper Mini Bassinet Convertible
	Size:	34 x 20 x 31 inches ; 28 pounds
	Features:	Wheels on one end to move easily around the house. Ventilated floor to avoid heat build-up Comes with 100% cotton fitted sheet and carry bag 2 side pockets which you should load with extra pacifiers Safe place for baby to sleep next to bed.
	The Arm’s Reach Co-sleeper Mini Bassinet is designed for keeping your baby close to your bed, but in his or her safe little space. It attaches securely to any adult bed (size twin all the way to California king) just under the mattress. That way, you’ll have your baby right next to you for comfort and closeness.The mini bassinet is easy to assemble and comes with a decorative liner to keep your baby cozy. The bottom is ventilated to prevent your baby from getting too warm. It’s also portable enough to be used as a little baby play yard, safe from pets or anything on the floor.Portability is one of the best features of this bassinet – it’s wheeled on one side for moving around the house, and also comes with a case so that you can fold it up for travel (weighs only 25 pounds). Thus, it’s great to take on trips or to the grandparents’ house for a weekend. If you’re currently cosleeping with your baby (letting him or her sleep in bed with you), you should really think about this product. It provides all of the closeness and convenience of having your baby next to you in bed, but gives them a safe little spot to fall asleep in.
	Reviews:

Keeping your baby comfortable is an important aspect of baby sleep training. That comfort starts with the crib mattress, which (as you’ll find) usually doesn’t come with the crib. There are almost as many options for baby mattresses as adult mattresses!

Most baby crib mattresses also fit a toddler bed, so this is a mattress that your little one could sleep on for the next 3-4 years. To help you, we’ve compiled our picks for the best baby crib mattresses in a few different categories: all-around mattresses, extra firm, and organic mattresses.

Contents:
All-around Mattresses
Extra Firm Mattresses
Organic Mattresses

Best All-Around Crib Mattresses

There are many good options for an all-around mattress. They’re roughly a standard size in terms of length and width (52 inches by 27 inches), though the depth can vary. And you should still measure the crib or toddler bed it’s for. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right mattress for your baby:

• Don’t make the mistake of getting a cheap 3″ thick mattress. Technically one will work, but it’s flimsy. Quality mattresses are 5 inches thick or more.
• Your baby doesn’t need a super-soft mattress. In fact, firm mattresses are safer because they reduce the chances of suffocation.
• Even though they’re kind of bulky, if you buy a crib mattress online, you can usually get free shipping. I won’t lie, it’s fun to get a huge package in the mail, even if it’s just a baby crib mattress.

Kolcraft Pure Sleep Therapeutic 150 Crib Mattress

Kolcraft is a family company (started in 1946) whose core business is producing safe, sturdy mattresses for cribs. The Kolcraft 150 crib mattress is so named because it contains 150 steel coil springs, densely packed together to provide firm and consistent support, and covered with soft hypo-allergenic material.

It fits standard cribs as well as toddler bed frames, and comes with a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty. This is a well-made mattress that’s both firm and thick (some crib mattresses you see are a paltry 2 to 3 inches thick). For all-around quality this is an outstanding and affordable choice.

And best of all, it’s made in the U.S.A.!

Features:	Perma-Dri cover that’s both durable and waterproof; it wipes clean with a damp cloth. Phthalate and flammability compliant without toxic fireproofing chemicals. Natural airflow pocket to keep mattress fresh without any metal venting
Dimensions:	51.62 inches long by 27.25 inches wide x 5.00″ deep
Reviews:

Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress Here’s an excellent mattress whose durable core is made from a renewable resource: American soy. It’s made from high-density soybean foam that’s both hypoallergenic and more durable than traditional foams. The result: extra support and reduced sagging. It’s also lightweight, which is useful when you have to change the sheets or lower the crib. This mattress meets flammability standards, is made in the U.S.A., and comes with a lifetime warranty. It fits a standard crib and a toddler bed frame. Overall, a great American-made mattress that supports farm families! Features: Soy-based high density foam core to reduce sagging Water-resistant and wipes clean with damp cloth Square-cut corners for snug fit in cribs Airflow pocket to let mattress breathe Dimensions: 51.6 inches long x 27.2 inches wide x 5 inches deep Reviews:

Extra Firm Crib Mattresses

Babies don’t need the cloud-like pillowy mattresses that their parents might prefer. In fact, a firm mattress is safest because it won’t let your baby sink into it or get caught between the mattress and the side of the crib. And as you’ve probably seen, babies can fall asleep just about anywhere. Between the baby fat, the diaper, the clothes, and the swaddler, there’s plenty of padding to go around!

Serta Nightstar Extra Firm Crib Mattress

Our favorite crib mattress in the extra firm category is made by legendary mattress company Serta (of “Perfect Sleeper” fame). Its full perimeter border wire and heavy gauge coils provide an extra firm, balanced, and supportive sleeping surface. Cloth binding at the edges and “lock stitching” add to the durability. And the laminated cover is easy to clean.

As mattresses go this is on the larger side of standard, so it fits quite snugly into most cribs with no room at any edge. And the fact that your baby can stand on the reinforced sides without sagging is a real comfort. This is by far the most safety-conscious crib mattress we’ve come across.

Features:	Top insider layer is Serta Fireblocker; outside is a cotton blend Border wire keeps edges firm even if baby is standing Meets all federal and state standards 25 year warranty
Dimensions:	52.5 inches long x 27.3 inches wide x 5.8 inches deep
Reviews:

Organic Baby Crib Mattresses

If you’re teaching your baby about organic materials, the first place to start is where he or she sleeps. Happily, there are a some excellent organic baby mattresses out there. Generally “organic” means that the covering and comfort layers (padding) are made from organic materials such as organic cotton. There’s no disadvantage to this; organic mattresses are just as water-resistant as non-organic ones.

L.A. Baby Organic Cotton Orthopedic Crib Mattress

The most popular organic baby mattress on Amazon (and a consistent bestseller overall) is the organic cotton two-sided orthopedic crib mattress from L.A. Baby. Two-sided mattresses like this are less common these days for a simple reason: they last longer than a one-sided mattress because you can flip them over on a routine basis. There’s also an extra support on the sides for your infant’s safety and orthopedic comfort.

The cotton insulator pad and comfort layers are made from 100% certified organic cotton materials. Cloth bindings prevent the edge seams from splitting, and the mattress meets all federal and state flammability standards.

Features:	Certified 100% organic cotton insulator pad and comfort layers Water-resistant, antibacterial surface 240 inner coil springs of 15.5 gauge steel
Dimensions:	52 inches long x 27.5 inches wide x 5.8 deep
Reviews:

Willow Natural Coconut Palm Crib Mattress

This mattres is made by Da Vinci, a well-respected maker of mini cribs for babies. It’s constructed of a natural coconut palm fiber and filled with latex-free foam to provide a completely organic foundation for your baby’s crib.

I’m not thrilled about the fact that this mattress is made in China, but I know that Da Vinci prides themselves on craftsmanship, and those who have bought this mattress simply love it. It’s balanced and engineered to be usable on both sides (one for infants, one for toddlers).

And the idea that it’s made from a coconut palm tree is simply enchanting. Why can’t more things be made of them?

Features:	Engineered and balanced to be used on both sides (flippable) Soft 100% cotton covering, all natural coconut palm foundation JPMA certified and 10-year limited warranty
Dimensions:	52 inches x 27.5 inches x 6 inches
Reviews:

What To Read Next

Still looking at cribs too? Check out our reviews of the best 4-in-1 convertible cribs for some great options.

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The best crib mobiles in musical, black/white, and organic categories.	If your baby baby won’t sleep, this guide will help you diagnose and fix the problem.	Travel Crib Reviews covers light-weight, ultra-portable bassinets and cribs for traveling.	Establishing a bedtime routine is a critical for teaching babies to sleep through the night

One of the most important elements of our babies’ bedtime routine came as a gift: a pair of plain white Aden & Anais swaddle blankets. Lightweight, breathable, and incredibly soft, this is the first and last blanket you’ll ever need for your baby.

Aden+Anais has three main product lines for their unique muslin fabrics:
Swaddle Blankets
Dream Blanket
Sleep Sacks & Sleeping Bags

What is Muslin, Anyway?

Muslin, the material for which Aden & Anais blankets are renowned, is a loosely woven cotton fabric. It originated in Bangladesh and became popular in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries. Because air moves so freely through this fabric, it’s commonly used for curtains, clothing, and upholstery in hot and dry climates.

Aden & Anais Swaddle Blankets

The classic Aden+Anais blankets are perfectly suited for swaddling because they’re large, thin, and lightweight. When you have a newborn you can swaddle him or her with virtually any receiving blanket bigger than a hand towel. It gets more challenging, though, as your baby grows (in length and weight) and becomes stronger.  At some point, a receiving blanket is no longer enough.

Here’s why Aden and Anais blankets are ideal for swaddling a baby:

• They’re made of a muslin. It’s a special weave of cotton that’s light, airy, and thin.
• They fold and wrap easily, while remaining breathable and not over-heating your baby.
• They’re larger than most baby blankets. Measuring 44″ x 44″ or 47″ x 47″, these are enough to wrap your baby a few times.
• The material is super-soft. Your baby will love that, and be less likely to kick out of it.

Try swaddling with an Aden+Anais and you’ll understand. It’s just easier, and you can make nice folds and tucks (like the girl at left) to keep it secure.

Swaddle/Blanket 4-Pack

The Aden & Anais classic and swaddle blankets come in 4-packs. This actually isn’t a bad deal – they often go on sale on Amazon.com, and you’ll be glad to have extras of these. If your babies are anything like ours, they’ll quickly become attached and fall asleep more quickly with the comfort of that soft muslin against their cheeks. Having extras on hand becomes very important.

Plus, you can and should wash the blankets. Aden & Anais encourages it, and says that the more you wash them, the softer they’ll become. Hard to imagine, but it seems true to us.

Aden and Anais Dream Blanket

The muslin swaddle blankets are warmer than you’d expect, but perhaps not enough for use in the colder months (or with an older child). If you’d like something similar but warmer, look into the Aden+Anais Dream blanket. It has 4 layers of muslin instead of one, making for a plush and warm blanket. The Dream blanket is generously-sized, too (47 inches by 47 inches). It’s perfect for:

1. Keeping your little ones warm, especially on winter nights when a lighter blanket doesn’t seem like enough.
2. Snuggling on the bed or couch (with a few stuffed animals, of course).
3. For an older child (2-5 year old) to sleep under in the toddler bed.

Though I haven’t had any issues with our single-layer swaddle blankets, I’d imagine that the Dream blanket is more durable, too. This is good for travel or outdoor use, and also handy because kids tend to get attached to blankets like these.

They’re not bad for adults, too. I admit I’ve occasionally “borrowed” one of our boys’ blankets because they’re just so incredibly soft.

Aden+Anais Sleep Sacks & Sleeping Bags

If you’re concerned about having a loose blanket in the crib, check out the Aden & Anais sleep sack. This baby-sized sleeping bag is made of the soft muslin material, but fits snugly over your baby’s pajamas to keep them warm. Kind of like a velcro swaddler, but leaving your baby’s legs to move freely. These sleep sacks aren’t as versatile as a square blanket, but have some nice perks:

• Snug, safe fit around your baby. Essentially, it becomes part of your baby’s pajamas. No loose blankets to worry about.
• Warmth with freedom of movement. The arms are completely unencumbered, the legs kept warm in the “bag” without being restricted the way a swaddle does. Perfect for when they start kicking out of the swaddle.
• Zipper closure with diaper access. The zipper starts at the top (over the baby’s chest) and goes down to the feet. It takes a bit of getting used to, but the advantage is that you can access the critical diaper region without taking the sack off entirely.

Plus, there are lots of cute designs to choose from in the sleep sack. Make sure that you pay attention to the sizes.

Aden+Anais Sleeping Bag Size Chart

Sleep Sack:
Size:	Small	Medium	Large
Dimensions:	27 inches by 22 inches	30 inches by 23 inches	34.5 inches by 25 inches
Baby’s weight:	10 to 18 pounds	15 to 24 pounds	22 to 28 pounds

Go get one of these, either for your little one or as a gift. You won’t regret it!

If you plan to take your baby on a road trip or vacation, you’re about to realize just how much essential baby gear you’ll need on a day-to-day basis. One of the most important items is something for the baby to sleep in, ideally a portable bassinet or travel crib.

We’ve done the research to find and compile these portable travel crib reviews to help you find one that’s right for your baby. If you’re looking for something more permanent (to keep at the lakehouse or grandparents’ place), see our mini crib reviews.
Contents:
Features to Look for in Travel Cribs
Travel Crib Reviews
Fitted Sheet for Travel Cribs

Features to look for in travel cribs

There are a few key features that I like to see in a good travel crib – these are the absolute essentials for something that (1) I plan to travel in a car or airplane with, and (2) would be suitable for my baby to sleep in.

Travel Crib Reviews

	Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages
	Reviews:
	Size:	23.2 x 33.5 x 32.2 inches ; 19.1 pounds
	Features:	Height-adjustable bassinet with two levels Converts easily into a play yard Weighs less than 20 pounds Includes canopy and mobile
	Travel Crib Review: The Graco Travel Lite crib with stages is similar to a pack-N-play option with two important differences. First, its space-saving design makes it 20% smaller than your typical play yard. Second, it includes a bassinet with two height adjustments, to accommodate your growing newborn. There’s also a canopy to help block out the light, which is important when traveling (especially when you’re sharing a room). This travel crib also folds with the push of a button (visible on the side in the photo at left) into a compact, travel-friendly size. The quilted mattress pad keeps baby comfy and cozy when in the play yard. Overall this is a nice and travel-friendly option for your baby.

	Kushies Easy Fold Baby Bed
	Reviews:
	Size:	33″ x 22″ x 8.5″, 2.3 pounds
	Features:	Fits in a standard suitcase when folded UV protective fabric keeps baby safe from the sun Canopy with loops to hang toys
	Travel Crib Review: The Kushies Easy Fold Baby Bed is a compact, folding baby bed that’s perfect for traveling. Made of a lightweight, UV-protective fabric, it folds easily and weighs less than four pounds. I really like the protective netting, which makes this the perfect option for taking your baby outdoors to picnics, the beach, a little league game, or wherever there could be biting bugs or over-curious strangers.

	Phil & Ted’s Nest Compact Baby Bed
	Reviews:
	Size:	30.3 x 15 x 13 inches ; 4.4 pounds
	Features:	Contoured and vented base with firm mattress Mesh cover top for indoor/outdoor use Roomy gear bag included
	Travel Crib Review: The Phil & Ted’s Nest is another great option for traveling, overnights with the grandparents, or a nap at the park or beach. This is not just a sleeper: One side is spacious storage bag and the other side unzips a pop-up bassinet. So, you can stash some baby gear, clothes, blankets, or other essentials in the storage section. It also accommodates a fitted sheet (sold separately). The product description states that this will fit into an overhead compartment of an airplane. While this might be true, you won’t get the chance to find out because it exceeds the carry-on size allowance, so most airports in the US won’t let you carry it on.

	BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light 2
	Reviews:
	Size:	45 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; 11 pounds
	Features:	Set up and ready to use in one simple movement. Compact and lightweight design (11 lbs) Waterproof, breathable mattress cover is machine washable New leg mechanism for easier take-down
	Travel Crib Review: The Babybjorn Travel Lite 2 is a new and improved version of their bestselling travel crib, with an improved leg mechanism that makes take-down even faster. This travel crib has a uniquely compact design that features a base with slanting edges. This means the crib stands firmly and doesn’t wobble, even if little ones are standing up or if older siblings are leaning against it. The see-through net fabric side panels let you keep an eye on the baby while he’s playing or sleeping. It also comes with a removable, waterproof cover, which helps protect against leaky diapers. You can buy a Baby Bjorn Fitted Sheet that will keep this travel crib soft and cozy for your baby.

	Gocrib Portable Baby Travel Crib
	Reviews:
	Size:	27″ x 39″ x 25″ inflated, 11 pounds uninflated
	Features:	Inflates to standard-size play yard with insulating mattress Anti-Puncture materials maximize strength, stiffness, and prevent leaks. Curved sidewalls eliminate hard edges and corners to prevent unintended bonks and bumps. Breathable ClearView Mesh allows for full airflow and an unobstructed view of baby
	Travel Crib Review: I saved one of the best for last: the GoCrib by Guava Family. This standard size, ultra-portable travel crib packs into a lightweight backpack for ultimate freedom. Set up is fast and simple with the included dual-action pump that inflates the crib in less than a minute. There’s a pressure gauge that tells you when the crib is ready to use. Once inflated, it’s the size of a regular play yard, with a nice zipper-down side to let you do some tummy time. Don’t think of this as a cheap blow-up crib. Just the opposite, the GoCrib is a rigid inflatable structure that creates a strong and safe environment for your baby anywhere you go. When it’s time to pack up, the valves lock open to make deflation a snap. And then it stuffs into a backpack like a sleeping bag would. The backpack is small enough to carry on, so you don’t have to worry about the airlines losing or damaging it.

Fitted Sheet for Travel Cribs

If you get the Graco, Baby Bjorn, or GoCrib travel crib, don’t forget to buy a fitted sheet. You can get the brand for most of these, but the Jersey Knit Porta-Crib Sheet by American Baby Company offers a nice alternative. These 100% cotton sheets are machine-washable, come in 5 different colors, and fit all standard size 24W x 38L porta/mini-crib pads.

When you’re running errands, taking a walk, or meeting up with friends, a newborn baby carrier can be incredibly useful. There are a lot of choices for these: carriers that hold the baby in front, backpack carriers, and carriers that you tote along.

We made the mistake (with our first daughter) of buying a cheap baby carrier at a discount store. It looked great, but was completely useless. Therefore I set out to find some better options. I hope you’ll find these newborn baby carrier reviews helpful!
Contents:
Soft Baby Wraps
Baby K’tan Carriers
Baby Bjorn Carriers
ErgoBaby Carriers
Baby Backpack Carriers

Soft Wrap Carriers

Soft wrap carriers are a unique option for snuggling your little one against you in a stylish, soft, hands-free body wrap. These are lightweight and less expensive, and generally more useful for newborns than older babies.

	Moby Wrap Soft Baby Carrier
	Reviews:
	Features:	Unique, intimate way to hold your newborn Wide piece of fabric to wrap around shoulders Distributes weight evenly between shoulders and back For newborns up to 35 pounds
	Baby Carrier Review: A new and wildly popular approach to baby carriers, the Moby Wrap Baby Carrier includes a wide piece of fabric (100% cotton) that wraps around your back and shoulders. This distributes the weight evenly while keeping your baby warm and cozy against you. It’s a great way to bond with your little one while simultaneously freeing up your hands to get a few things done. This carrier is very comfortable and easy to wear – I like that it has no buckles, straps, or other confusing gadgets that are hard to figure out. You just wrap it around your baby and yourself. There’s even a breathable stretch of fabric you can use to help support your newborn’s head. You get two free hands and an ergonomic way to carry your baby’s weight. Your little one gets to bask in your warmth and listen to your heartbeat. It’s a win-win! Choose from 12 different colors at Amazon

Baby K’tan Carrier

Here’s a sling-style carrier that offers six different carrying positions, while blending the comfort of a baby wrap with the comfort of sling-type models.

	Baby K’tan Baby Carrier
	Reviews:
	Features:	Over 6 positions from preemie to preschool (35 lbs.) 100% natural cotton double Sling design No wrapping, no hardware, rests comfortably on both shoulders Machine washable and dryer safe
	Baby Carrier Review: The Baby K’tan Baby Carrier is an innovative 100% natural soft cotton baby carrier that is an ideal blend of a sling, wrap and carrier, providing the positions and benefits of all three. The Baby K’tan has six different carrying positions, letting you tote your little one around from birth to 3 years of age. One position even lets you privately nurse your baby. The Baby Kt’an is lightweight and compact like a sling, yet goes over both shoulders to evenly distribute baby’s weight like a structured carrier. What I like about this carrier is that it’s ready-to-wear, with NO buckles, snaps, rings or hardware. Instead, the double-loop design makes it easy to put on and take off, while providing excellent support and privacy for nursing mothers.

BABYBJÖRN Newborn Carriers

The Baby Bjorn is perhaps the best-known traditional baby carrier: well-made, secure, supportive, and top of the line. These are the best of the best when it comes to baby carriers.

	BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Synergy
	Reviews:
	Features:	Breathable mesh fabric efficiently reduces heat and moisture Enhanced lumbar panel provides maximum support for the lower back Comfortable, wide shoulder straps distribute baby’s weight evenly Carrier front can be removed completely to lay down a sleeping baby Folds compactly into a convenient pouch attached inside the carrier
	Baby Carrier Review: The BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Synergy (Black) is perhaps the best-known baby carrier, offering the ultimate in comfort for carrying your baby while keeping your hands free. Designed for Extra Comfort The Synergy model is made of airy, breathable mesh fabric and has enhanced lumbar support. This system is designed to let you carry heavier babies for longer periods of time while keeping your hands free for other tasks and giving your lower back extra support. Made of Safe, Comfortable, Non-toxic Materials All fabrics and materials used in BABYBJÖRN Baby Carriers that come into contact with baby’s skin meet international safety standards for textiles, and contain no health-hazardous substances. This means that during your baby’s teething phase, you can allow your baby to nibble or suck on the fabric without worry. For your baby’s comfort, the airy, mesh material feels soft to baby’s cheeks and won’t irritate sensitive skin. And, for your convenience, it is machine washable and dries quickly.

	BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Air
	Reviews:
	Features:	One-of-a-kind mesh material that releases heat and moisture Great for keeping mom and baby cool, especially in summer Wide padded shoulder straps Sliding buckle to accommodate your growing baby
	Baby Carrier Review: The BABYBJÖRN Baby Air Carrier is a lighter-weight version that’s perfect for hot summer months or warmer climates. It’s constructed with a unique mesh material (designed specifically for Baby Bjorn) that wicks away heat and moisture, letting you and your baby stay cool and comfortable. The light, airy mesh is super-soft, so your baby will snuggle quite comfortably against it. This carrier also opens all the way in the front so that you can slide out your sleeping baby without waking him or her. The wide straps are designed to distribute the weight evenly across your back and shoulders. There’s also an adjustable head support. You’ll probably want your newborn to face against you in the carrier, but you can also turn an older baby around so that he or she can see out. This is a nice feature, because the older they are, the more entertainment (and sadly, less snuggling) they often seem to need.

ERGObaby Newborn Carriers

ERGObaby is really giving Baby Bjorn a run for their money. These carriers are designed for ergonomic support of the parent while carrying the baby’s weight. They have both an original model and an organic materials carrier.

	ERGObaby Original Baby Carrier
	Reviews:
	Features:	Made of 14 ounce cotton canvas 400 threads per inch cotton poplin lining and hood 100% cotton batting in body of carrier to soften edges Sleeping hood adjusts in length to growth of baby
	Baby Carrier Review: The ERGO Baby Carrier is currently the #2 selling carrier on Amazon. ergonomic design supports a correct sitting position for the newborn’s hip, pelvis and spine growth. High-density foam filling in the shoulder straps and waist belt help make it comfortable for mom and dad, too. The buckles are by National Molding and tested up to 235 pounds, though if your baby weighs that much, you have other problems. I like that the sleeping hood adjusts so that you can keep using this as your baby grows – one of the saddest days is when your baby’s just too big for the carrier. There are several color options; the black/camel model is shown, but it also comes in cranberry, grey, and “sport black” (solid black with cool white stitching).

	ERGObaby Organic Baby Carrier
	Reviews:
	Features:	100% organic cotton and sateen materials Padded shoulder straps and a waist belt Machine wash cold with mild detergent on gentle cycle Baby’s legs are supported in a natural sitting position
	Baby Carrier Review: If you prefer to buy organic, then I have a baby carrier for you. This carrier has all the advantages of the ERGO Baby Original Carrier, with the added benefit of being crafted from 100% organic cotton and sateen materials. Like the original model, it provides ergonomic support for your newborn’s hips, pelvis, and spine while keeping the parent comfortable with high-density foam padded straps. The advantage of this design is that it puts all of the weight on your hips, rather than your shoulders or lower back. It’s also easier to put on and take off than some of the other carriers, without requiring long strap adjustments. Even though it’s made of cotton (organic cotton at that), you can machine-wash this carrier in cold water on the gentle cycle. The Highland Green color is shown; it’s also available in Desert Yellow and Navy Blue. Save 19% and get free shipping from Amazon

Baby Backpack Carriers

Last but not least, I just had to review my favorite backpack baby carrier. These are truly hands-free, and they let your baby look at you, smell you, even reach out and touch you at all time. The real advantage to backpack style carriers is in how they distribute the weight: rather than pulling your shoulders forward, they pull your shoulders back (less weight on the lower back).

	Chicco Smart Support Backpack
	Reviews:
	Features:	Ergonomic backrest Distributes baby’s weight evenly Standard bag / carry-all belt bag included Hood with rain cover
	Baby Carrier Review: This Italian-designed backpack has a height adjustable seat to give your newborn the perfect ride. Energy-absorbing lumbar cushions and padded mesh shoulder straps help you keep cool and comfortable. The frame is made of aluminum, so it’s sturdy but lightweight. There’s a kickstand to keep the whole thing stable while you load or unload your baby. What I like about this baby carrier backpack is that it includes a water-resistant canopy, sun visor, and ventilated, zip-off rain cover. This will protect your baby from the rain, sun, and wind while providing some ventilation to keep you both comfortable. And the frame is specially designed to distribute your baby’s weight, to minimize the strain on your back and shoulders. Right now save 25% and get free shipping at Amazon