10 reasons to own 10 carriers

Posted on April 25, 2008 by Orit

I know many moms who own one, maybe 2 carriers. I know only a few who own more than that. But from my own experience, two carriers are the very minimum you need in order to be always comfortable and happy, and the more you have, the better.

1. Growing. As baby grows, his increasing weight may change your requirements from your carrier. You may want to switch from tummy to back, for instance, or from stretchy fabric to woven.

2. Hubby. Dads often have different preferences regarding the choice of the baby carrier. In most families it is the mom who uses the carrier most of the time, yet I often see moms who compromise in the choice of their carrier just because of dad’s preferences, instead of buying dad his own carrier.

3. Weather. In summer you might prefer lighter fabrics and carriers with as little fabric as possible, while in winter you may favor carriers with padding and warmer fabrics.

4. Changing. As baby develops, his preferences regarding carrying positions, time spent in the carrier as well as the number of times he asks to be get inside or outside during the day greatly change. While an infant may like to take long naps in a woven wrap, for instance, an ideal carrier for infants, a toddler might request to be carried for much shorter periods, and get in and out very often, which is much more comfortable in a pouch.

5. Laundry. Especially during winter, a spare carrier is essential while you wash and dry the dirty one.

6. Elimination Communication. If you happen to raise a diaper-free baby, several spare carriers are essential.

7. Health and safety. It is recommended to change carrying positions in order to avoid damage to your body. If you like slings, It may be advisable to use a symmetric carrier now and than; if you like tummy positions, it will do you good to switch to back carry sometimes.

8. Fashion. If your appearance matters to you, the carrier is no reason to neglect it. On the contrary, you may use it as another accessory.

9. Friends and relatives. Whenever you tire of one of your carriers, just pass it on to a friendwith a new baby! She will need her carrier collection just like you

10. Whims. Having a baby doesn’t mean you must give up every little whim. If you simply feel like wearing a flowery sling one day and a black mei tai the next I say go for it!

Oh, and don’t forget- having several carrier doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money.