Deciding what carrier you need to buy and which product to choose can be very confusing for first time parents. A good place to start is to decide which "category" of baby carrier you want to use. However, even this is not a simple task because putting a baby carrier into a particular category can be difficult as there are so many of them and some of their features fall into more than one category. This article will attempt to explain broadly the differences between the various categories of baby carriers so that you can make a more informed choice.

The baby carrier categories discussed will be:

• Slings
• Pouches
• Structured, Front or Back Carriers
• Wraparounds

The sling goes over your shoulder and lets you hold your baby in a cradling position. Newborn babies can be carried in front, whereas older babies and toddlers carried on the hip or on the back. Ring slings baby carriers are long strips of fabric that adjust with rings they come in padded and non-padded varieties. Those who use slings are said to be practicing what is called "babywearing". Slings come in all sizes and styles and are adjustable. This is useful if there is going to be more than one carrier in the household. Examples of this type of carrier are the JJ Cole Premaxx New Edition Baby Carrier and the Huggababy Sling.

Pouches

Sometimes called "tube" or "pocket" slings, they are just tube-shaped slings, sewn together. They have a built in pouch and they are very secure. Most pouches have a curve sewn in to shape the cloth to the parent's body and hold the baby more securely than a simple straight tube. The wearer slips the pouch over the head and one shoulder, sash-style, creating a pocket or seat to hold baby in. Pouches are very easy to use and are often used as "trainers" by first time parents. They are lightweight and can easily be put into a diaper bag for carrying when not in use. Pouches are often classed as slings but the main difference is that they are often not adjustable. An example of a pouch carrier is the Premaxx Baby-Bag.

Structured

Structured baby carriers, also sometimes known as front or back carriers, are basically just a rectangular piece of fabric with straps coming off the corners. They are structured because they have a rectangular section which holds your baby securely against your body and straps to attach the carrier to you. Some tie on and some fasten with clips. Structured baby carriers evenly distribute the weight of your baby across both shoulders and your hips. These carriers are good for carrying older, heavier babies and toddlers. They are also good carriers if you do plenty of walking or hiking. Structured baby carriers are very popular because they are often more conventional looking than other carriers. Examples of structured carriers are the Ellaroo Mei-Tai and the Baby Bjorn Active Carrier.

Wraparounds

Wraparounds are long pieces of fabric that you wrap around you and your baby and then tie. There are many different carrying positions possible with a wrap, depending on the length of the fabric. A baby or toddler can be carried on the wearer's front, back or hip. They distribute the weight very evenly so are comfortable to wear. There are two main types of wrap - stretchy and woven. Stetchy wraps are preferred for younger babies because of the more bounce or give in the fabric. However, they must be wrapped around more tightly to ensure that the baby is secure. Wraparound baby carriers are very popular in Europe. Examples of wraparound carriers are the Kari-Me and the Ellaroo Wrap.

As you can see, there are numerous types of baby carriers and your final choice in selecting one for you and your baby will depend on many factors including, your preferred carrying position, the age of your baby and the overall support you require. Whichever one you choose we recommend you ask other parents and also try different carriers out for yourself before purchasing.