Hi! My name is Coco and I'm a mom. My journey to motherhood has been filled with happiness, love, excitement, and many challenges. From Trying to Conceive to Postpartum and now caring for my 2-year-old son, I’ve been seeking support to make my transition to motherhood easier. Here on Owemama, I share real stories, maternity-related tips and honest reviews. Let's navigate this journey together!
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Buying baby products and putting together your registry is fun. Well, let’s put it that way: Shopping is fun! Especially when it’s for your first child. So you find yourself browsing the internet looking for the best products because you want everything to be perfect. Soon enough, you realize how many choices you have and how difficult it is to make up your mind. So you also ask your friends and family members, but everyone has a different opinion. When creating my registry, I had that experience for almost every item. Though, I didn’t think much of it when it came down to baby-wearing. I thought: “I already have a stroller; why do I need a baby carrier?” - It made sense to me as I would only see parents carrying their babies on the streets. I didn’t think of how it would make travelling easier or how my son would love to stay close to me and be carried…constantly… and I mean, refusing to be put down even for a little nap. All that to say, a baby carrier was the last thing on my list to research or even consider.
Nonetheless, the algorithm on Instagram ensured I was bombarded with pregnancy and baby products… and baby carriers… and wraps. There were so many brands and cool designs, and each of them successfully persuaded me that they were the best for whatever reason. After a few months, they had me. I like to think it was the hormones and emotions that got the best of me, but I have to admit, maternity and baby brands are so good with ads!
One brand that really stood out to me was Solly Baby. They found a way to showcase how comfortable their wraps are. Honestly, I didn’t even know how to wear them, but through their videos, I could feel the softness of the fabric on my unborn baby boy’s skin. After just a few clicks, it was added to my registry. Now I had a baby wrap that I didn’t know if or how I would use, so obviously, my next thought was: “If I can’t use the wrap, should I add a baby carrier too?” - No, that was too much. Instead, I asked my friend, who had already sent bags of her son’s old clothes to me, if she had a baby carrier, and of course, she did. She sent me her old Ergo Baby Carrier. I was finally all set with my Solly Baby wrap and Ergo Baby Carrier.
In light of being fully transparent, I had three baby carriers and my Solly Baby wrap by the time my son was born. Don’t ask, don’t judge.
If you’re entirely new to this, you might ask, “What’s the difference between a baby carrier and a baby wrap?” or “Which one should I choose?” One thing is for sure: You definitely do not need, I repeat, DO NOT NEED, three baby carriers and a wrap.
This article should help you make up your mind. If it doesn’t and just adds to the list of people sharing their opinions, making you even more confused, send me a message! We’ll talk it out.
Now, let’s jump to the serious stuff.
So, what is a baby carrier?
A baby carrier is a structured device designed to hold your baby securely against your body. It often comes with padded straps, buckles, and adjustable settings to distribute weight evenly. The Ergo Baby Carrier is a good example. It is known for its ergonomic design that supports you and your baby.
Here are some of the brand’s key features:
- Ergonomic support: Provides proper hip and spine alignment for your baby.
- Adjustable fit: Accommodates different body types with adjustable straps and belts.
- Multiple carry positions: Offers front-inward, front-outward, hip, and back carrying options.
- Durability: Made with sturdy materials suitable for long-term use.
Check out the Ergo Baby Omni 360 Mesh Carrier collection here
What is a Baby Wrap?
A baby wrap is a long piece of fabric that wraps around your body to create a pouch for your baby. It offers a snug and customizable fit. The Solly Baby wrap is a popular choice since it’s soft (it really is) and lightweight.
Key features of Solly Baby wrap:
- Soft fabric: Made from sustainable, lightweight materials that are gentle on your baby’s skin.
- Custom fit: Molds to the shape of your body and baby for a personalized fit.
- Portability: Compact and easy to store in a diaper bag.
- Breathability: Ideal for warmer climates due to its lightweight fabric.
Discover the Solly Baby Wrap here
Let’s compare the two:
Ease of Use
- Ergo Baby Carrier: It’s quick to put on. It has buckles and straps that can be adjusted for a perfect fit.
- Solly Baby Wrap: Watch videos on YouTube or the company’s website to learn how to tie the wrap properly. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize it’s pretty simple.
Comfort
- Ergo Baby Carrier: The padded straps and structured support distribute your baby’s weight evenly, reducing strain.
- Solly Baby Wrap: The soft fabric molds to your body, offering a snug fit. Though some say it may stretch out after prolonged use.
Age suitability
- Ergo Baby Carrier: Suitable for newborns (with infant insert) and toddlers.
- Solly Baby Wrap: Ideal for newborns and smaller babies, it may not be as comfortable as your baby grows. It may stretch out.
Versatility
- Ergo Baby Carrier: Offers multiple carrying positions for various stages and preferences.
- Solly Baby Wrap: Primarily used for front-inward carrying.
Portability
- Ergo Baby Carrier: Bulkier due to its structure but still manageable for travel.
- Solly Baby Wrap: Lightweight and folds compactly, making it easy to carry around.
My final review: Ergo Baby Carrier
The Ergo Baby Carrier is comfortable and practical, especially when travelling or taking long walks.
- Pros:
- Excellent back support, reducing fatigue.
- Versatile carrying positions.
- Durable and lasts through multiple children.
- Cons:
- It can be warm in hot weather because of its thick padding.
My final review: Solly Baby Wrap
SOFT is the word. As a newborn, I would have loved to be carried around in the Solly Baby Wrap.
- Pros:
- Gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin.
- The lightweight fabric prevents overheating.
- Cool designs and colors.
- Cons:
- The learning curve for wrapping correctly.
- It may stretch out after prolonged use.
“Which one do I choose?” - you might still ask.
Unfortunately, I can’t tell you which one to choose because it totally depends on your lifestyle and preferences. I loved using the Solly Baby wrap while at home with my newborn. He could be wearing just his diapers, and I wouldn’t worry about his sensitive skin getting scratched by thick padding. On the other hand, I also loved my Ergo Baby Carrier because I could use it longer. It also became handy when we started travelling.
So all I can say is this: Consider factors like your baby’s age, how long you plan to use it or wear your baby each day, and your comfort with learning to use the product. Both options have unique benefits and are loved by many parents, including me!
Hope this helps,
Coco