Are you unsure about which carrier style you need? Here's a quick overview of the types of baby carriers so you can get a better idea of the differences.
Structured carriers: These are your standard baby carriers with shoulder straps, a hip belt and a support pouch for baby to sit in. The best thing about them is that they are adjustable for the baby's size, as they often fit up to the little one weighing 35 pounds or more. and for all the positions your baby might want to be in during the first months. However, they are a bit big and bulky compared to lighter carriers.
Wrap carriers: These are used for baby wearing, where just a long wrap of cloth is tied around your body and baby. We found these comfortable and breathable, but they are less secure and supportive, and are really only easy to use when baby is quite small. For babies who only want to be carried or held close to you, it can be a good, affordable solution. It may have more of a learning curve to get the wrap right.
Ring slings: These are similar to wrap carriers, but use a single ring to secure the baby in a hip or inward-facing position. They are light and breathable, but have a clear learning curve and also feel slightly less secure than a structured carrier. However, they have more positions than a wrap carrier and are easier to throw in a bag.
Toddler Carriers: Toddlers can fit in many structured carriers, depending on the weight and size of your little one. But because toddlers are mobile, they often aren't as happy to be strapped to your chest as they were when they were a baby (I know, I'm sad too). Hip carriers and toddler seats are the alternative, where you attach a lap belt with a seat for your toddler to sit on.