7 Best Baby Carriers of 2025: Find the Best Baby Carrier for You
Finding the best baby carrier can feel overwhelming with so many baby carriers available on the market. Whether you're searching for a baby carrier for newborns, a wrap baby solution, or something that grows with your child, this guide is designed to help you find the best option for your family. We've researched dozens of top-rated carriers to bring you the 7 best baby carriers of 2025 — carefully selected based on comfort, safety, durability, and value.
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
Before we dive into our baby carrier picks, it’s important to understand what makes a comfortable baby carrier and how to choose the carrier that works for your lifestyle and baby’s needs.
Types of Baby Carriers
There are several types of baby carriers to consider:
- Structured carrier: Also known as soft structured carriers, these offer support and ergonomic features.
- Wrap carrier: Long pieces of fabric you tie yourself. Great for wearing baby in a snug, cozy hold.
- Hybrid carrier: Combines features of structured and wrap styles.
- Backpack carrier: Ideal for outdoor use or long walks.
- Hip carrier: Supports baby on your chest or hip for flexibility.
Each of these carriers designed for different ages and stages, from newborn to toddler. Your baby might prefer one style over another, so comfort and safety are key.
1. Tula Explore Baby Carrier – The Overall Best Baby Carrier
The Tula Explore stands out as the overall best baby carrier in 2025. Designed to support your baby from 7 to 45 lbs, this structured carrier offers multiple carrying positions — including baby facing in, out, and back carry.
Why We Love It
- Ergonomic M-position seat for healthy hip development
- No infant insert required
- Wide padded straps for comfort
- Machine washable
Whether you're wearing your baby at home or on a walk, the Tula Explore baby carrier offers durability, comfort, and adjustability. Compared to other structured carriers, it offers superior weight distribution and support.
Use this carrier if:
- You want a carrier that works from newborn to toddler
- You're looking for modern carriers that are stylish and functional
- You want to keep your baby close and secure
2. Baby K’tan Original – Best Baby Wrap for Simplicity
The Baby K’tan Original is a wrap baby solution that takes the complexity out of traditional wraps. There are no buckles or rings — you just pop baby in and go.
Highlights
- Made from 100% cotton
- Available in multiple sizes (XS-XL)
- Ideal for new baby bonding and sleeping baby support
This wrap carrier is especially suitable for the baby carrier for newborns phase. It's soft, stretchy, and provides that intimate feel without a learning curve.
Use this carrier if:
- You want a baby wrap that's easy to put on
- You're in the early months and need a newborn carrier
- You want a budget-friendly baby option
3. Omni Breeze Baby Carrier – Best Carrier for All Climates
The Omni Breeze baby carrier by Ergobaby earns praise for its breathable SoftFlex™ mesh, keeping you and your baby cool year-round. It supports babies from 7 to 45 lbs and doesn't require an infant insert.
What Makes It Special
- Maximum airflow with SoftFlex™ fabric
- Lumbar support and padded shoulder straps
- Grows with your baby without sacrificing comfort
This baby carrier is ideal for parents who live in warmer climates or want one all-season carrier that works.
Use this carrier if:
- You live in a warm area
- You want multiple carry positions
- You're looking for a sleek, comfortable baby carrier
🔗 Visit Ergobaby's Product Page
4. Solly Baby Wrap – Best Newborn Wrap Carrier
The Solly Baby Wrap is a favorite for parents who want to keep their baby close and cozy during the newborn stage. It’s incredibly soft, lightweight, and made from sustainable TENCEL™ modal.
Key Features
- Designed for babies up to 25 lbs
- Ideal for newborn carrier needs
- Distributes weight evenly to avoid back strain
While not suitable for older babies, it’s perfect for bonding and supporting a sleeping baby during the first months.
Use this carrier if:
- You're looking for a stylish, wrap baby option
- You want skin-to-skin contact in a breathable fabric
- You're still in the early weeks and months
Bullet Point Recap (Quick Summary for Busy Parents)
- Tula Explore: Best all-around for flexibility and longevity
- Baby K’tan Original: Easy wrap carrier for beginners
- Omni Breeze: Best for warm climates and long-term use
- Solly Baby Wrap: Soft, breathable, and perfect for newborns
5. Beco Gemini Baby Carrier – Best Hybrid Carrier for Versatility
The Beco Gemini is a standout hybrid carrier that blends the snug feel of a wrap with the convenience of a structured carrier. Designed for babies 7 to 35 lbs, it transitions smoothly from newborn to toddler.
Beco's Best Features
- No infant insert needed
- Four carry positions: front in, front out, hip, and back
- Crossable shoulder straps for added support
The beco baby carrier is excellent for wearing your baby on walks or around the house. If you’ve noticed that my baby settles best when held, this is a carrier that works.
Use this carrier if:
- You want the flexibility of both a wrap and a buckle system
- You're new to using a baby carrier and want something easy to put on
- You appreciate budget-friendly baby options
🔗 More About the Gemini at Beco
6. BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini – Best Infant Carrier for Simplicity and Comfort
The BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini is specially crafted for the newborn stage. It’s compact, super soft, and perfect for keeping your baby close during those first few months when bonding and touch are essential.
What Stands Out
- Suitable for newborns up to 24 lbs
- Super soft materials are gentle on sensitive skin
- Small and easy to put on — perfect for quick trips
The BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini doesn’t require an infant insert, making it a fuss-free option for baby wearing. It's also one of the preferred carriers for new parents due to its simplicity and ergonomic design for the weight of the baby.
Use this carrier if:
- You’re a new parent needing a reliable baby carrier for newborns
- You want a baby carrier that’s ultra-light and breathable
- You're looking for a solution to help with a sleeping baby
🔗 Shop BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini
7. Osprey Poco Plus – Best Hiking Backpack Carrier
When it comes to outdoor adventures, the Osprey Poco Plus is the gold standard in hiking backpack carriers. It’s a robust, feature-rich backpack carrier designed to help you carry a baby on long hikes without strain.
Key Features
- Adjustable torso fit for adults
- Built-in sunshade and hydration sleeve
- Weight limit up to 48.5 lbs (including child and gear)
This is one of the carriers designed for active families who want to explore nature while keeping their baby safely secured and supported.
Use this carrier if:
- You’re an outdoor enthusiast
- You need a hiking carrier that supports both baby and parent
- You want something that grows as your baby becomes more active
🔗 Explore the Osprey Poco Plus
Bonus Mention: Aerial Carrier Options Rising in Popularity
The aerial carrier category is emerging in 2025, focusing on minimalist, breathable designs that are perfect for travel and light activity. While not as structured as other soft structured carriers, these are gaining traction for being easy to put on and off.
Popular aerial carrier picks include:
- Minimonkey Twin Carrier – Ideal for parents of multiples
- Tushbaby – A hip carrier that’s compact and back-friendly
These options don’t replace your main baby carrier, but they make great lightweight additions to your baby essentials.
Key Features to Look For in a Baby Carrier
When you're choosing a baby carrier, consider these factors to make the best choice for you and your baby:
- Weight Limit: Look for carriers supporting 7 to 45 lbs, which covers most infants and toddlers.
- Infant Support: Some need an infant insert, while others are ready for newborns out of the box.
- Comfort: Padding, back support, and shoulder strap design make all the difference.
- Ease of Use: Many parents prefer carriers that are easy to put on quickly, especially when juggling other baby gear.
Bullet Summary: What to Prioritize
- Longevity: Choose a baby carrier that grows as your baby grows
- Versatility: Options for front, hip, and back carry
- Breathability: Especially important in warmer climates
- Budget: Plenty of budget-friendly baby options exist without sacrificing quality
Using a Baby Carrier Safely
Using a baby carrier correctly is vital for both baby’s safety and your comfort. Always make sure:
- Baby's face is visible, with clear airways
- Legs are in the "M" position for hip support
- You follow manufacturer instructions for fitting and wearing
🔗 For baby safety standards, consult the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA).
Keeps baby close, keeps baby supported — these are the basics of baby safely carrying.
Carriers We Tested and Our Evaluation
When reviewing the 12 best baby carriers of the year, we looked at:
- Comfort for both parent and child
- Long-term usability
- Real-world use: noticed that my baby responded better in certain carriers
- Weight distribution and back support
- Ease of cleaning
This blog is based on both expert reviews and hands-on tests with real parents.
Wrap-Up: Choosing the Best Baby Carrier for You
There is no one-size-fits-all best baby carrier, but these seven models — from the Tula Explore to the Osprey Poco Plus — represent the top-rated carriers on the market in 2025. Whether you’re just starting with a newborn carrier, seeking a travel-friendly aerial carrier, or preparing for your first hike with a backpack carrier, there's a right baby carrier for every family.
Recap: Best Baby Carriers of 2025
| Carrier | Best For | Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tula Explore | Overall Versatility | 7 to 45 lbs |
| Baby K’tan Original | Wrap Simplicity | 7 to 35 lbs |
| Omni Breeze | Hot Weather Use | 7 to 45 lbs |
| Solly Baby Wrap | Newborn Comfort | up to 25 lbs |
| Beco Gemini | Hybrid Flexibility | 7 to 35 lbs |
| BabyBjörn Mini | Infant Stage | 7 to 24 lbs |
| Osprey Poco Plus | Hiking/Outdoors | up to 48.5 lbs (combined) |
Structured Carrier Options: Support and Versatility for Growing Babies
A structured carrier, sometimes referred to as a soft-structured carrier, is one of the most popular choices among new parents. These carriers like the Ergobaby Omni Breeze or Tula Explore are known for ergonomic support, easy adjustments, and versatility from newborn to toddler stages.
Why Choose a Structured Carrier?
- They make the carrier easier to put on and take off with buckles and padding
- Provide back and shoulder support for long periods of wearing your baby
- Offer a secure seat for your baby, helping with hip development
- Compatible with both forward-facing and inward baby facing positions
Unlike some types of carriers that rely solely on fabric (like wraps), soft-structured carriers come with adjustable straps and lumbar support. Many parents prefer this because you can wear the carrier for hours without discomfort.
Quick Tips for Parents:
- Look for padded waistbands to evenly distribute the weight of the baby
- Ensure there are multiple carry positions so the baby gets variety and comfort
- Carriers with zippered pouches are ideal for baby essentials like wipes or a pacifier
Structured carriers are especially useful when the baby becomes more active, and they offer more durability compared to wraps or ring slings. While carriers don’t always fit everyone the same way, most structured models offer adjustable sizing for both caregivers and babies.
Newborn Carrier Considerations: What to Look For in the First Few Months
Finding a reliable newborn carrier is one of the most important early parenting decisions. The first few weeks and months are when every baby craves closeness and security, and the right carrier ensures you're wearing your baby safely and comfortably.
Features to Prioritize in a Newborn Carrier:
- Soft, breathable fabric for your baby’s sensitive skin
- Secure head and neck support
- A seat for your baby that encourages a natural "M" position
Many carriers like the Baby K’tan Original or Solly Wrap are ideal during this phase, providing close contact and comfort without the need for complex fasteners or an infant insert. These wrap baby solutions allow you to get the baby into position quickly, especially helpful when soothing a fussy or sleeping baby.
Additional Newborn Tips:
- Check that the carrier offers head and neck support for baby safely
- Avoid carriers that allow the baby to sit too upright in the early stages
- Use with baby monitors when possible, especially if you're multitasking at home
Remember, not all baby carrier for newborns are created equal. Choose carriers designed specifically for suitable for babies under 15 lbs, and always check safety certifications from sources like the JPMA.
Budget-Friendly Baby Carriers: Affordable Picks Without Sacrificing Safety
Looking for a budget-friendly baby option doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort or safety. In fact, some of the most popular carriers today combine value with function, making them ideal additions to your baby essentials list.
Top Budget-Friendly Carriers (Under $100):
- Beco Baby Carrier – A reliable, ergonomic choice that performs like premium brands
- Original Baby Carrier by Infantino – A classic option that has been trusted for years
- Baby K’tan Original – Perfect for newborns and great for beginners
The beco baby carrier, in particular, offers a great balance between structure and flexibility. It's one of those carriers like the Tula but at a lower price point. Its hybrid design makes it a smart pick for new parents on a budget.
Why These Carriers Stand Out:
- Easy to clean and easy to put on
- Lightweight and breathable fabrics
- Many include a built-in baby backpack compartment for small storage
Whether you're packing for a day trip or just around the house, these affordable baby carriers support bonding, comfort, and convenience. They're also great backups to have when traveling or visiting family.
For active toddlers, consider toddler hip carriers that allow you to distribute weight on one side — useful when your baby becomes too squirmy for front carries but still wants closeness.
Final Thoughts: Baby Wearing That Works for You
From soft structured carriers to wrap baby options, your choice depends on lifestyle, climate, and the weight of the baby. The best carrier is the one you’ll use every day — whether it’s a pop baby into a sling and go, or a robust buckle carrier for long treks.
- Baby carriers since their invention have continued evolving with better ergonomics and materials
- Baby gear since 2020 has increasingly emphasized multi-functionality and safety
- Many carriers now feature convertible positions for baby facing in or out
Whatever your pick, the most important thing is to carry your baby safely, comfortably, and close — because every moment counts.