“You are so lucky! You’re so thin and short, you probably look good in everything.” If I had a $1 for every time I heard this line, or something similar, I would be so rich!
So let’s bust some myths. No, petite ladies are not always thin and shake off baby weight like it’s nothing. We have to work just as hard as everyone else to be fit and healthy. No, we are not ‘so lucky’ to be small built and short, we usually get confused for school girls making it difficult to be seen as professionals in the workplace and capable mothers. First impressions last a lifetime. And no, we don’t look good in everything! We usually have to search for hours to find the perfect fit and will most likely have to have pants shortened, or shop in the kiddies department – either way it’s inconvenient.
Unfortunately the same rings true when it comes to maternity clothing and baby gear designed for mothers to wear. As a petite mom myself, I am familiar with the struggles of finding baby carriers that fit properly around the waist and shoulders and doesn’t make you seem like your drowning in it.
With your baby’s safety and comfort a priority, it’s really important to find and select a carrier that fits you comfortably too! So, I’ve helped you narrow down your search to 3 of the best baby carriers designed for petite moms that Amazon.com offers.
These baby carriers are backed by hundreds of satisfied, petite mothers, like yourself. The reviews speak for themselves. Below you will find summaries of each carrier with pros and cons to help you make the best decision!
Baby Tula Explore Baby Carrier
The Tula Explore Baby Carrier is truly a remarkable and versicle baby carrier that has been designed for your baby’s comfort and development. As a petite mother, your comfort and ease of use have to be considered too. Being a lightweight baby carrier, it suits petite moms, but there are many more benefits that should be considered before your purchase. Here is a list of pros and cons to help you weigh up your decision.
Pros:
- A single purchase suitable for babies from 7 to 45 lbs (3 to 20 kgs). For newborns, there is a padded neck and head support pillow that will provide support to your baby when awake or asleep. No additional newborn inserts are necessary.
- 6 different carrying positions that include front-facing or facing-out, facing in and back carry. Each position is comfortable for both mom and baby as they are natural ergonomic positions that promote healthy hip and spine development for your baby.
- An adjustable body panel that can be altered to fit your growing baby from newborn to toddler.
- Machine washable cotton fabric that is both soft and breathable.
- There is extra padding on the shoulder straps and a thickly padded waistband that helps to support your baby’s weight evenly. The padded leg openings for your baby add to their comfort and prevent chaffing.
- Can be used by different people, thanks to the adjustable straps.
- The carrier allows for breastfeeding while offering mom some privacy.
- The detachable hood is a great feature to protect from direct sunlight, wind or other weather conditions.
- There is secure storage space on the waistband designed for easy access.
Cons:
- Compared to other baby carriers the cost may seem high but weighed up against the versatile design features, length of use, and comfort for both mom and baby, it is a worthwhile investment.
You + Me 4-in-1 Ergonomic Baby Carrier
Talk about sharing the load; this all-seasons You + Me 4-in-1 Ergonomic baby carrier allows parents to switch carrying baby between two adults without removing the little one from the carrier. Made from stain-resistant fabric, this carrier is suited for infants from 8 to 32 lbs (3.5 to 14.5 kgs). Below is a list of pros and cons of this user-friendly baby carrier.
Pros:
- The carrier includes a 2-in-1 bandanna bib that can be used with the carrier or separately. The bandanna used on its own is like a wrap that promotes closer bonding between mom and baby.
- There are 4 carrying options. Front facing-in for babies younger than 6 months, front-facing in and out for babies over 6 months and back facing out for toddlers. The seat can be adjusted to suit the width of your baby’s hips and can accommodate your newborn in a facing-in seating position. The seat can then be adjusted for babies 6 months and older with a wider seat that allows your baby to face outward.
- Easy to transfer the baby in the carrier from one adult to another without removing the baby from the carrier. The internal harness allows for this easy transfer so if your baby is asleep you need not wake them when someone else takes over carrying the baby.
- The mesh lining of the carrier allows a degree of temperature control through airflow in warmer climates or seasons. The waist belt and padded straps are also made from mesh lining.
- The design and structure are lightweight and will suit petite moms. Can also be used for larger or taller caregivers.
- Has a built-in baby headrest that adds to your baby’s comfort.
- Built-in secure storage facility.
- The carrier can be machine washed and dried.
- Affordable price.
Cons:
- The carrier does not work well for tall babies as the head and neck support is designed for babies of average length.
- Check to make sure that the carrier doesn’t squeeze your baby’s legs and stop circulation. Extra padding at the leg openings would help a great deal but are not present.
LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Baby Carrier
The LÍLLÉbaby complete all-season baby carrier is designed for babies between 7 and 45 lbs (3 to 20 kgs) and is suited for all seasons as the name suggests. Not only are the seasons covered but every baby carrying position is covered too. It is available in an assortment of colours and has a versatile strapping system that can be crisscrossed for petite mothers. Here are the pros and cons of this innovative baby carrier.
Pros:
- There are 6 carrying positions that include front, hip, and back. The hip carrying position has made this carrier a 360-degree baby carrier system.
- The front of the carrier can be zipped down and rolled up at the bottom in hot temperatures. There is a mesh panel beneath the material that supports the baby’s sitting position.
- The carrier has a removable hood that when used, protects your baby from the elements. It is ideal for times when your baby falls asleep in the carrier.
- With adjustable side panels, you are able to custom fit the carrier to your baby and readjust as they grow. This is a great feature to get your baby’s hip placement right.
- The carrier also comes with a large pocket for storage.
- The carrier has adjustments for comfortable and private breastfeeding.
- The design has taken lumbar support for mom into account and your baby’s weight is evenly distributed to reduce pressure on your lower back.
- The International Hip Dysplasia Institute evaluated the carrier and found it to promote healthy hip development for infants – bonus!
Cons:
- The inner mesh, although much cooler in hot conditions, can be irritating for your baby and may cause red lines, especially on their back and neck.
- It is not easy to switch carrying positions with your baby still in the carrier.
- The canvas material will be hard when new and needs to be worn in with several washes before it is soft enough for your baby otherwise chafing can be expected when using a new product.
- Designed with mom’s comfort in mind but not as much for your baby’s comfort. A bit more padding for the baby could solve this issue.
FAQ’s
What should I be aware of when my baby is carried forward-facing?
If you trip while walking your baby can get seriously injured. With a forward-facing position, your center of gravity is no longer balanced and you place a lot of stress on your lower back.
Your baby needs to maintain the C shape of their spine for normal development but in a
forward-facing position, your baby’s spine becomes an inverted C shape. For this reason, this position is not recommended for babies who cannot walk yet. Spinal development is normally complete at about 18 months old.
An added concern is that with the forward-facing position there is the risk of your baby dropping their head forward when they fall asleep that will restrict their airway and result in asphyxiation. This will not happen when your baby is facing-in as when they fall asleep their head will rest against your chest keeping their airway open.
What should I know about hip dysplasia standards for baby carriers?
The first six months of your baby’s life are critical for normal hip development. Short-term occasional use of a baby carrier will not necessarily have an impact on your baby’s hips so it is best to keep the use of a carrier to a minimum and allow your baby the opportunity to develop normally.
If carriers are used for several hours each day then the risk of hip dysplasia
becomes a real concern. The standards set for carriers are that hip placement in the carrier is in line with normal infant posture where the hips are allowed to spread apart normally with the thighs supported to mimic the Froggie or M position. This ensures that no limbs are stretched which will restrict normal development.
Why are ergonomics important for newborns?
When babies are born, they are naturally very flexible and the hip joint being a ball and socket joint needs time to harden. If the hips are stretched out too early and for long periods of time this may cause hip dysplasia or dislocation. Because the condition is not painful it can go unnoticed until it’s time for your baby to begin walking.
To avoid this, you must always make sure your baby is in the Froggie or M position when using a carrier. This is the natural posture of your baby as they go through the development phase. Keep a good balance in the different positions you place your baby in. Swaddling too tightly can also cause hip dysplasia.
What’s the best way to clean my carrier?
This depends on the material that your carrier is made from. The best is to follow the manufactures washing/cleaning instructions.
Avoid cleaning soaps that will bleach the material of your carrier when in direct sunlight. If a mishap occurs some warm water and a cloth should do the trick and will prevent dirt from being smeared into the fabric.
Can babywearing help with colic, gas, and reflux?
Yes, to a point; mostly because you are paying attention to your baby that will calm them down. Using a carrier allows you to keep your baby in an upright position which helps a great deal for reflux. All the little bumps as you move about with your baby in the carrier will loosen up gas in their tummy and will be expelled in one way or another.
Will I not spoil my baby if I use the carrier too much?
All babies need a lot of love and affection to make them feel secure in their new environment. During your baby’s awake time bonding through touch and sound (voice) and smell are very important for development.
You can give them too much attention and you shouldn’t deprive them of the attention they need to develop normally.
Limit the use of the carrier if you are at home but a daily walk in the park is a good time to use your carrier. Get some skin-to-skin time in; maybe lie on a blanket with your little one and interact with them when doing tummy time. There are many great ways to help your baby feel secure and loved.
What is the NINO period?
NINO stands for Nine months in, Nine months out. Using a carrier mimics your baby’s sense of security while still in your womb. They are held close to your chest and can feel and hear your heartbeat which comforts them and promotes good emotional development. Using a carrier will help to regulate your baby’s sleep routine.
What are the advantages of carrying your baby?
It has significant advantages for your baby and for you if you choose to carry your child close to you.
There are at least six advantages of carrying your baby:
- Babies need skin contact (especially premature babies)
- Babies with reflux, cramps, or cry-babies feel more comfortable
- Carrying your baby strengthens the bond with you as a parent
- Carrying your baby provides practical convenience: your hands are free
- You will optimally benefit from mobility and flexibility without a pram
- Stimulates the physical, social, and motoring development of your little
child.
Conclusion
All of the above-mentioned carriers are 5 stars rated by authentic, petite mothers. All of which come with so many pros making the decision really difficult. No matter your style or preference in carriers, I’m sure that at least one of these listed carriers will suit your needs.
When choosing a carrier, you should always consider your child’s safety, health and comfort first, and of course your own comfort too.
One of the biggest adjustments for a new mom is being limited in movement. You will most likely feel exhausted from having to have your baby in your arms continuously and not having the freedom to do basic things like household chores. This is where a baby carrier works wonders!
If both mommy and baby are happy and comfortable, and mom can use her hands, this new chapter in life becomes even more enjoyable!
I hope this lists helps you to find the perfect baby carrier and makes life a little easier. Leave your comments below on these carriers and help other mothers with this difficult decision.
