Baby Carriers

Choosing the right type of baby carrier can be a bit overwhelming given the variety of options available. Consider the age and weight of your baby, comfort, versatility, ease of use, and budget. If in doubt, reach out to our customer service team at The Memo to help you make an informed decision.

In Australia, baby carriers are subject to safety regulations to ensure the well-being of both parents and children. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) oversees these standards, aligning with the Consumer Goods (Babies' Dummies and Dummy Chains) Safety Standard 2017. The ACCC advises parents to look for carriers that come with secure harnesses and fastenings to prevent the child from falling out. They should also offer good neck support for younger babies who are yet to develop strong neck muscles. Labels and instructions should be clear and thorough, offering guidance on appropriate age and weight limits and instructions for safe use.

Absolutely, ergonomic baby carriers are designed with both you and your baby's comfort in mind. Our collection of baby carriers at The Memo is engineered to distribute your baby's weight evenly across your shoulders and hips, reducing strain and ensuring a more comfortable experience for both. Your baby is positioned in a way that supports their hips, spine, and neck, aligning with recommendations from paediatricians for healthy development.

Wraps are perhaps the most basic and versatile form of baby carrier. They are usually made from a long piece of stretchy or woven fabric that you wrap around yourself and your baby. The wrapping technique can be adapted for various carrying positions, offering a custom fit every time. Wraps are generally considered best for newborns and younger babies due to the close contact they provide.

Slings are another form of fabric-based carrier but are usually simpler to use than wraps. They often feature a ring or similar fastener, making it easier to get your baby in and out. Slings are worn over one shoulder, and the fabric forms a pouch for the baby to sit in. They are quick to put on and excellent for short carrying periods or informal settings. Slings are also highly versatile and can be used for various carrying positions.

Structured carriers are more rigid and often resemble a backpack. These carriers come with padded shoulder straps and a wide waistband to help distribute your baby's weight more evenly, making them more comfortable for longer periods. They also typically offer multiple carrying positions, such as front-facing, rear-facing, and sometimes even a hip position. These carriers are often more straightforward to put on than wraps or slings and are generally more adjustable, making it easier to switch between different caregivers.

Baby carriers come with manufacturer guidelines on the suitable weight and sometimes age range for usage. Always adhere to these recommendations to ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby's size and developmental stage.

Yes, there are baby carriers designed specifically for different age groups in Australia. At The Memo, we offer a range of sizes, such as newborn-specific baby carriers, carriers for older infants, and convertible or “grow with baby” carriers.

You can find baby carriers ranging from $140 - $360 online at The Memo.

Buying second-hand baby carriers can be economical, especially given how quickly babies grow and their needs change. However, there are essential considerations to remember when going this route. For one, ask the seller about any accidents or significant incidents while the carrier was in use. It's essential to know if it's been compromised in any way. Secondly, check for any recalls associated with the brand or model you're considering. Also, inspect the carrier for any wear and tear, especially in the seams, buckles, and straps. Lastly, consider cleanliness. Given the intimate nature of a baby carrier (with babies often drooling, spitting up, or having nappy leaks), you'll want to ensure that any second-hand carrier is thoroughly cleaned. Ask the seller about its history and if it's been cleaned recently. Even after purchasing, give it a good wash according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Always consult the manufacturer's cleaning instructions, usually found on a tag or in the manual, before washing your carrier. For minor stains or spills, spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent can be sufficient. If the carrier is machine-washable, use cold water and a gentle cycle. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, which can weaken the fabric and reduce its durability. If machine washing is not advised, hand wash the carrier in cold water using a mild detergent. Finally, hang the carrier out to dry, as tumble drying can compromise its integrity. Make sure it's completely dry before using it again.

You can find baby carriers made from organic or eco-friendly materials in Australia here at The Memo. We supply carriers that use organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo fibres, which are both kind to your baby's skin and better for the environment. The organic materials are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, making them a safer choice for your baby. Notable brands include Ergobaby and Boba.

Absolutely, there are baby carriers specifically designed for hiking or outdoor activities available at The Memo. These carriers are built with you and your baby’s comfort and safety in mind, providing added features like sun canopies, water-resistant materials, and extra storage compartments for essential items like water bottles or nappies.

Hiking baby carriers often come with reinforced, padded straps and a more robust frame to distribute your baby's weight evenly, minimising strain on your back and shoulders.

Instructional videos and guides on using different types of baby carriers are widely available through various channels, such as YouTube, social media, and the manufacturer’s website.

Ergobaby and Boba specialise in baby carriers, and are reputable Australian brands.

To ensure a baby carrier is safe for your child's hips and spine, look for a design that supports the "M" or "froggy" leg position. In this position, your baby's knees are higher than their bottom, forming a natural "M" shape. This is considered hip-healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Also, the carrier should offer adequate head and neck support, particularly for newborns who can't hold up their heads yet.

Yes, at The Memo, we stock a variety of baby carriers that allow multiple carrying positions. Ergobaby carriers typically offer multiple carrying positions. Their designs usually allow for front-inward, front-outward, hip, and back carrying options, depending on the specific model you choose

Yes, The Memo stocks baby carriers, such as Baby Bjorn and Ergobaby, that feature adjustable straps, buckles and other fastenings that can be quickly reconfigured for different caregivers.