A guide to the best baby carrier for each stage of childhood
The best baby carrier depends on your baby's current age and size. For newborns, the Sprout Newborn Carrier is our top pick. Once baby hits 10 lbs, the Lark Baby Carrier takes over. At size 3T, the Lark Kid Carrier is built for the long haul. Read on for the full stage-by-stage breakdown.
The right carrier changes as your baby grows. We carry every size, every stage, XXS through 6X, and this guide walks you through exactly what to reach for and when. Want to browse everything first? See our full carrier range.
Yr
Best Baby Carrier by Stage
Important: The Lark Baby Carrier starts at 10 lbs and is not designed for newborns. If your baby is under 10 lbs or younger than about 6-8 weeks, start with one of the options below.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to you?
What does your toddler need today?
| Carrier | Newborn 0–3 mo |
Baby 3–12 mo |
Toddler 1–3 yr |
Kid 3T+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprout7–24 lbs | ✓ |
~ |
– |
– |
| Lark Baby Carrier10–45 lbs | – |
✓ |
✓ |
– |
| Lark Kid Carrier25–65 lbs · 3T+ | – |
– |
~ |
✓ |
| Ring Sling7–35 lbs | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
– |
| Baby Wrap7–35 lbs | ✓ |
~ |
– |
– |
| Meh Dai7–45 lbs | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
– |
Best Baby Carrier FAQ
What is the best baby carrier for each age?
The best baby carrier depends on your baby's age and size. For newborns from birth, the Sprout Newborn Carrier is our top pick, with ring slings, baby wraps, and meh dais also working from day one. From around 10 lbs and up, the Lark Baby Carrier becomes the workhorse and carries through the toddler years. Once your child hits size 3T, the Lark Kid Carrier takes over at 25 to 65 lbs. All hope&plum carriers fit sizes XXS through 6X.
When should I switch from a newborn carrier?
Most babies outgrow a dedicated newborn carrier between 3 and 6 months, or when they reach around 20 to 24 lbs. The Sprout Newborn Carrier is rated to 24 lbs, but once your baby has strong neck control and is sitting with support, the Lark Baby Carrier at 10 to 45 lbs is the natural next step.
Can I use the same carrier from newborn to toddler?
Yes, with the right carrier. Our ring sling and meh dai both work from birth all the way through toddlerhood, carrying up to 35 and 45 lbs respectively. If you want one carrier that spans the most stages, either of these is your best bet.
What is the best carrier for a 1 year old?
The best baby carrier for a 1 year old is the Lark Baby Carrier. It handles 10 to 45 lbs with structured support, easy buckles, and front and back carry. The ring sling is also excellent at this age for quick hip carries, and the meh dai works beautifully for longer back carries once your toddler sits unassisted.
When can I use a toddler carrier?
The Lark Kid Carrier is designed for children in size 3T and up, carrying 25 to 65 lbs. It is not an age-based transition but a size-based one. Until your child hits 3T, the Lark Baby Carrier, ring sling, and meh dai all continue working well through the toddler years.
What carriers work for plus size parents?
All hope&plum carriers are designed for bodies XXS through 6X from the start. The Lark Baby Carrier waistband extends to 65 inches on the long size, the meh dai ties to fit any waist size up to 74 inches, and our ring slings come in three lengths to fit a wide range of bodies. Size inclusivity is built into every carrier we make.
Skye Amundsen
Skye Amundsen is the co-founder of hope&plum and a mom of four. She's been obsessed with babywearing since her first baby and built this brand to make it easier, more inclusive, and a lot more fun for everyone who comes after her.
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