Searching for the best baby carrier for preemies can be frustrating. As there’s not a lot that’s meant for premature babies.
And there’s only a few, like the Weego Preemie baby carrier, that’s really designed for premature babies.
But fear not, for I have researched the best possible baby carriers for preemies! Even checking the parent’s recommendations from certain Facebook groups and popular forums. With all that information, I believe below are the top and safest baby carrier options for preemies.
This article includes information about the preemie babies’ weight that can fit in this list of baby carriers, pros and cons of each baby carriers and more.
But first let’s shed some light into the different types of baby carriers you can consider for your preemie baby.
I hope you’ll love the products we recommend! Just a quick note: if you click on a product link below and decide to buy it, we may earn a small commission.
Types of baby carriers for preemies
There are many different types of baby carriers available, but some are better suited for preemies than others. Here are a few of the most popular options:
- Soft wrap: This is a long piece of stretchy fabric that you wrap around your body to hold your baby. Soft wraps are very versatile and can be used for a variety of positions, including front carry, back carry, and hip carry. They are also very comfortable for both you and your baby.
- Woven wrap: Woven wraps are similar to soft wraps, but they are not stretchy. This makes them more supportive for preemies, but they can also be more difficult to learn how to use.
- Ring sling: A ring sling is a small piece of fabric with a ring in the middle. You place the ring around your waist and then wrap the fabric around your baby. Ring slings are very easy to use and can be a good option for preemies who are still small.
- Mei tai: A mei tai is an Asian-style carrier that has two wide, padded straps that go around your waist and shoulders. Mei tais are very comfortable and supportive, and they can be used for a variety of positions.
- Soft-structured carrier: A soft-structured carrier is a carrier that has padded shoulder straps and adjustable belts. These carriers are easy to use and can be a good option for preemies who are starting to get bigger.
- Structured carrier: A structured carrier is a carrier that has a frame. These carriers are more supportive than soft-structured carriers and can be used for hiking or long trips. However, they can be more difficult to use and may not be the best option for preemies.
When choosing a baby carrier for a preemie, it is important to consider the baby’s weight and size, as well as your own comfort level. It is also important to make sure that the carrier is safe and supportive.
Now let’s get on the with best baby carriers for preemies below.
List of Contents
Best Baby Carrier for Preemies or Small Babies
Nesting Days
- Safety
Created by a postpartum doula, Nesting Days is intended for a prolong Kangaroo Mother care method , with your baby in only a diaper for maximum skin-to-skin contact.
It is designed for the unique needs of preemies and newborns, meeting their ergonomic needs for better support and development. It’s one of the best baby carriers for tiny babies. Just take a look at this video below:
I love how it looks so cozy and snug! I wished I had this with my baby so I could have worn her since day one.
But I digress.
- Baby Weight
Nesting Days do not specify an age limit. But they do cater to a large audience with premature babies.
For babies under 8 pounds, it is recommended that you get the advice of a health care provider. It’s also suitable for babies up to 18 pounds.
Although I’d say this fits more younger babies, around 6 months or less, not so much for more mobile, older babies.
- Comfort
Its lightweight fabric conforms to one’s body, distributing baby’s weight evenly. Their fabrics are also PH neutral, have no irritating dyes or chemical finishes.
It doesn’t sag and retains its shape even after many uses.
Nesting Days baby wrap for preemies also come in different sizes, from XS to XXL.
- Ease of Use
You don’t need to worry about complicated wrappings, buckles, straps or harnesses.
It’s quite fuss-free to put on.
There’s an easy-to-follow video available on their website teaching exactly how to put it on with ease and comfort.
- Positions
You can use the Nesting Days in 1 carrying position – facing in.
- Extra
It’s machine-washable and you can also use it when breastfeeding. It is also a gentle body shaper for postpartum mom, providing support to her abdominal muscles while still being soft enough to wear over a c-section.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be used for the Kangaroo Care Method | Only 1 carrying position |
| Various sizes available for different sized adults | Limited use – can only use until your baby is 18 pounds |
| Easy to put on and take off (once you’ve gotten used to it) | |
| Comfortable and cozy material | |
| Machine-washable | |
| Comes in different colors and patterns | |
| Can breastfeed in it | |
Check my Nesting Days baby carrier detailed review here.
Didymos
- Safety
The Didymos has a Kangaroo Care Top that has been field-tested in hospitals over a thousand times since 2007. It’s been developed in cooperation with the neonatal unit of Stuttgart’s Olga Hospital in Germany, meeting the hospital’s high standards in the process.
You can comfortably wear the Kangaroo Care top right before your spinal anaesthesia and after giving birth, your baby can be placed immediately on your chest, safe and snug in the Kangaroo Care Top. It’s one of the softest baby carriers!
- Baby Weight
This baby carrier is specially made for preemies in mind and can be used for the Kangaroo Care Method.
- Comfort
Its material is made of 94% Viscose; 6% Elastane, making it a soft, comfortable, and elastic wear, holding your baby securely on your chest.
- Ease of Use
It’s much easier to put it on and take it off, without affecting the placement of tubes and cables. There’s no buttons nor buckles to worry about and no velcro straps either, which can be loud and might startle your baby.
But this is meant for wearing your preemie baby in the hospital. It won’t give an hands-free experience since it’s not a traditional baby carrier.
- Extra
It comes in various sizes, from S (36/38) all the way to XL (size 48/50). You can also easily reposition your child for breastfeeding and you can even use this for babywearing twins. It’s also machine washable and suitable for tumble drying.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Developed in cooperation with the Stuttgart’s Olga Hospital in Germany | Hard to find US reviews as most customers are from Europe |
| Field-tested in hospitals | Can only be used for a limited time only |
| Suitable for use immediately after birth with proper guidance | Can’t use to do chores, work, etc. |
| Highly adjustable – can fit any different sized adult | |
Boba Baby Wrap Carrier
- Safety
The Boba Baby Wrap’s stretchy material offers the right amount of elasticity, providing a womb-like feeling to your baby.
It’s certified by health care professionals of International Hip Dysplasia Institute, distributing your baby’s weight evenly, offering back support to the wearer, and supporting your little one’s natural ergonomic position.
- Baby weight
This is suitable though for babies weighing at least 8 pounds (can carry up to 35lbs).
There’s no minimum weight but some moms have used this for their premature babies weighing 2.3 – 2.5 kg.
Some even at 1.8 kg without any trouble! Making it one of the best baby carrier for preemie babies.
- Comfort
It’s made of 68% Viscose from Bamboo, 25% Cotton, 7% Spandex, providing a cooling and soft feeling while maintaining the right amount of elasticity to securely hold in your baby.
Parents are less apt to get tired from carrying their baby in the Boba Baby Wrap and can also help to encourage practicing the Kangaroo Mother Care method for a longer period of time in the comforts of their home.
- Ease of Use
The Boba Baby Wrap has a learning curve but once you’ve mastered securing its lengthy fabric (5.5 yards) around your body, carrying your baby everywhere hands-free will feel amazing.
You can also share this with any adult of various sizes, since it’s a one-size-fits-all wrap and easily stretches and accommodates every body shape and size.
- Positions
You can carry your baby in a front inwards position.
- Extra
It is machine-washable and spots clean with ease. It’s also easy to store and carry and comes with several color options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Considered as “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Takes some time to learn proper wrapping technique |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Extra fabric is difficult to manage – needs to be tied or stuffed to avoid touching the ground |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | Hot to wear on warm days |
| Can breastfeed in it | Might be hard to carry heavier babies |
| Budget-friendly | One carrying position only |
| Machine-washable |
Click here to GET 20% OFF on Boba Bundles – wraps and baby carriers!
Baby K’tan Original Baby Carrier
- Safety
The Baby K’Tan wrap has a patented double-loop design, for a safe and secure baby-wearing experience. Parents can easily tuck their baby’s head into the Baby K’Tan wrap for better support.
It also provides ergonomic positions for your baby, giving them proper head, back and hip support for their development.
- Baby weight
This is suitable for babies weighing at least 8 pounds (can carry up to 35lbs).
Some moms have used this for their preemies weighing 6 lbs.
- Comfort
This is one of the most popular baby carriers, with its breathable and lightweight 100% natural cotton material.
It wraps and contours around your back diagonally in an “X” shape, fitting your waist smoothly and comfortably.
It’s a soft baby carrier – it doesn’t feel bulky nor frilly, making it comfortable for both you and your baby,
- Ease of Use
It’s also super easy to use and super convenient to put on solo! Once you’ve gotten over the learning curve of using it, it’s as uncomplicated as wearing a t-shirt – you just slip it in, put in and out the baby and slip it out.
There are no buckles, bands, straps, or long fabrics to wrap to worry about, which makes it a very fuss-free baby carrier. You can carry your baby hands-free, without having to constantly adjust and hold your little one to feel extra secure.
The only drawback about the availability of different Baby K’Tan sizes is that you cannot adjust it to fit a different sized adult.
- Positions
You can carry your baby in five different positions – front inwards, front outwards, hip carry, “kangaroo position” and “explore position” https://www.babyktan.com/baby-carrier-instructions/
- Extra
The Baby K’Tan is easy to store and carry as it’s made very compact and lightweight. Some moms have used it when breastfeeding although it might take some time getting used to it.
It’s also machine-washable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to put on and take off – great for fussy babies | Not adjustable – if you order the wrong size, you can’t adjust it |
| 5 carrying positions | Not shareable – can’t share with anyone as it’s based on the size of the buyer |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Parents complained that it’s hard to carry their babies weighing 20lbs and up |
| Budget-Friendly | Some also said that the fabric is too hot for babies |
| Various sizes available starting at XXS | |
| Can be carried and stored easily | |
| Machine-washable |
Check my Moby Wrap vs Baby K’Tan Baby Carrier comparison guide here.
Hana Wraps
- Safety
The Hana Organic Baby Wraps are stretchy baby wraps that offer full head and neck support to your baby. Its material is sturdy and strong yet comfortable enough to keep your baby safe and secure.
It’s ideal to use for the Kangaroo Mother Care method.
Your baby’s weight is evenly distributed over the whole back and shoulders, in contrast to many other baby carriers that have thin straps that dig into the shoulders.
- Baby Weight
It is exceptionally suited from birth (2.8kgs) and recommended till 9 kgs.
Some moms have used this for their preemies weighing less than 2kg.
- Comfort
It is made of 68% bamboo, 28% organic cotton, and 4% elastane, making it a strong yet comfortable and snug wear.
Your baby will almost instantly go to sleep when carried in the Hana Wrap. It’s comfortable to wear even for longer periods of time.
- Ease of Use
Once you’ve gotten past the learning curve of using it, it can be so easy to put it on. It’s so convenient to use, especially if your fussy baby can’t wait to be carried and worn.
- Extra
This can fit up to sizes 14 UK, 40 EU. This is also machine washable. You can also breastfeed discreetly in it although it might take some practice to do it confidently.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to put on and take off – great for fussy babies | Can only be used until your kid is 9kg |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Only 1 carrying position |
| Budget-friendly | Some parents have complained about how hot the material feels, especially during the summer |
| Machine-washable | Others said their babies keeps sagging |
| Comes in different colors and patterns | |
| Can be carried and stored easily | |
| Can be used while breastfeeding |
Moby Classic Baby Wrap
- Safety
The MOBY Wrap’s material evenly distributes your baby’s weight across the hip and back, alleviating any back or shoulder pains.
Moms have used this baby carrier for their preemies without any issue, even with all the tubes and wires attached to their baby.
- Comfort
This wrap is made of 100% cotton, making it a soft and breathable fabric.
- Ease of Use
If you have gotten the hang of wrapping it, it could be super easy to use. It’s comfortable enough for your baby to immediately sleep in, while you keep yourself hands-free to do work and chores and run errands.
Some plus-size moms also shared that it’s quite comfortable to use, even if they are large-chested.
- Positions
The Moby Classic Baby wrap can be used in the following carrying positions – newborn hug, hug hold, hip hold, kangaroo hold, pregnancy sling.
- Baby weight
It’s suitable for babies and toddlers weighing from 8 – 33 lbs.
- Extra
It’s machine washable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly adjustable – can share with a different sized adult | Learning curve for wrapping |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Might be difficult to quickly take out and put back in your baby |
| Multiple carrying positions | Some parents have complained that the material can feel warm |
| Budget-friendly | Some said the material stretches out after some use |
| Machine-washable | |
| Comes in different colors and patterns | |
| Can breastfeed in it |
Check my Nesting Days vs Moby Wrap comparison review here.
Solly Baby Wrap
- Safety
For some parents, the Solly Baby Wrap has the right amount of stretch so that their baby won’t be sagging on it over time.
It also ensures your baby’s weight is distributed evenly across your body, reducing any back or shoulder pains.
This carrier will allow you to hold the baby in a relaxed and curved position which is necessary for their healthy growth.
- Baby Weight
You can only use up until the first year or up until your babies weigh 25 pounds.
Some moms have used this for their preemies, weighing at 5lbs, with no trouble.
- Comfort
This wrap carrier is made of water-absorbent Lenzing fiber so you and your baby won’t feel hot or sweaty when wearing it. It’s well suited for summer or all-around warm weather.
Its material also feels much softer than cotton, making it very snug and comfortable for your baby to sleep in.
Some moms have been raving about how it soothes their colicky and fussy babies, even helping their little ones with gas and reflux, when they’re worn using the Solly Baby Wrap.
Related Article: Does Babywearing Help With Reflux?
You can wear this for hours on end because of its cozy and lightweight fabric.
- Ease of use
Its 5.5 yards fabric is designed for wearers of all sizes, perfect for plus size moms weighing 270 lbs and large dads as well.
If you’ve gotten over its learning curve, you can easily tie it around your waist and upper body to create a snug and strong seat for your baby.
- Positions
You can only use it in 1 way carrying position – facing in.
- Extra
It comes in amazing designs and prints that moms and even dads will love. You can quickly fold the wrap and store it in the pouch when it is not in use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly adjustable – can share with a different sized adult | Learning curve for wrapping |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Only 1 carrying position |
| Can breastfeed in it | Has baby weight limit of 25 lbs |
| Machine-washable | |
| Lightweight and compact – easy to bring on trips | |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Comes in different colors and patterns | |
Check my Solly vs Moby Wrap comparison review here.
Wrapsody Hybrid Wrap
- Safety
The Wrapsody Hybrid Wrap is a comfortable, lightweight, and affordable wrap that is in compliance with the CPSIA act of 2008 and all other applicable standards/acts/bans, making it a safe baby carrier.
In addition, the dyes used in their wraps are ISO-9001 certified and free of heavy metals and similar toxins.
- Comfort
It is made from a lightweight cotton jersey, which is soft yet strong. It is hemmed for extra support, offering better security.
Some moms have high praises about its super comfortable material, even using it while they’re pregnant. You can even use this in hot climates and still feel snug and cozy.
- Baby Weight
It is recommended for use from newborn up to 35lbs(16kg).
- Ease of Use
This wrap is a one-size-fits-all so your spouse or any other different sized adult can use it with ease and comfort.
Its tapered tails so the wrap is not bulky when worn.
- Position
You can carry your child from birth through the toddler years, on the front, hip, or back.
But be reminded but that only the upright, facing in position is recommended for preemies or very small babies.
- Extra
It’s machine washable and can also be used while breastfeeding. It also has a beautiful range of amazing patterns and styles that moms will love.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to put on and take off – great for fussy babies | Limited carrying position |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | Some parents have complained about how hot the material is |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Others are also complaining about how they can’t use it for bigger babies (18 pounds) |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Machine-washable | |
| Comes in different colors and patterns | |
| Can be carried and stored easily | |
| Can be used as a nursing cover/while breastfeeding |
KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier
- Safety
The KeaBabies brand is actually a member of Baby Carrier Industry Alliance (BCIA), which I never knew existed until now! That means, they follow the BCIA safety standards but they are also accreditted internationally and has been awarded the ISO 9001:2015 accreditation.
Their baby wrap carrier is certified by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI), making it safe for your baby’s healthy hip development.
- Comfort
The KeaBabies wrap is made from a stretchy, soft and breathable proprietary cotton fabric tech, making it comfy and snug to fit in your baby, even a preemie. You also won’t find yourself constantly readjusting it has the right amount of elasticity, keeing both you and baby, as comfortable as possible.
It’s not the best baby carrier for summer or hot weather though as mentioned by a lot of parents.
- Baby Weight
It is recommended for use from 0 to 36 months or from 7 lbs to 35 lbs (3 kg to 15 kg) but a lot of parents have used this for their preemies.
One mom even mentioned she used it on her 4.5 lbs premature baby comfortably!
While others said they used it for their 5lbs or 5.5 lbs preemie and it was a very comfy and safe fit. So suffice to say it’s a suitable baby carrier for 5 lb baby.
- Ease of Use
The Keababy can be used for both petite-sized moms and plus-sized parents of up to size 22-24. One mom even said that she’s a size 30/32 and still had plenty of room!
There’s some learning curve to it, as with all baby carriers and some parents do struggle tying it up, but most find this very easy to use.
- Position
You can carry your child in 4 positions – newborn hug hold, regular tie, front facing and plus-size tie. Check out the video below on how to do the newborn hug hold position, which is suitable for your preemies:
- Extra
The KeaBabies is also a machine-washable, breastfeeding friendly baby carrier, which can turn into a postpartum belt, nursing cover and even a swaddling blanket if needed!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Considered as “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Takes some time to learn proper wrapping technique |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Hot to wear on warm days |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | |
| Has various carrying positions | |
| Can breastfeed in it | |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Machine-washable | |
How Can Baby Carriers Help Preemie Babies
Babywearing can have the most profound effect on premature or low-weight babies.
There is a method called the Kangaroo Mother Care, where infants are held skin-to-skin by parents or a caregiver. This practice started as a way to keep a premature baby stable.
This recognised practice is backed up by research conducted worldwide. Leading neonatal centres use it as it is proven to have a positive effect on preemies.
Kangaroo Mother Care can be conducted through babywearing and can have the most profound effect when done under expert care and a supportive and nurturing atmosphere.
Benefits of Kangaroo Mother Care
- Increases oxytocin production, which lowers your infant’s tress and reduces anxiety in parents/ caregiver
- Facilitates and increases bonding and attachment between you and your baby
- Enhances brain development for your baby
- Promotes healthy sleep for infants
- When paired with breastfeeding, prevents infection and improves infant’s weight
- Improves baby’s digestion
- Reduces infant’s crying during the first year
Safety Tips on How to Babywear Your Preemie
- You must have a full discussion and guidance from your primary nurse or doctor. They might not know enough or that much about babywearing but they know your babies’ stability, capabilities, limitations, and how safe and secure the wires, tube and devices should be
- Your must know how to protect your baby’s lines, wires, cord and medical devices.
- You must be attuned to your baby’s signs of distress and how to read their monitors.
- You must be knowledgeable in babywearing. You must have the skills and the confidence in wrapping and unwrapping your infant.
- Make sure that baby’s face is visible when you check on them in the baby carrier and that their mouth and nose are not covered by anything.
Preemie Baby Wearing: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a preemie in a carrier?
Yes, you can put a preemie in a carrier if the preemie baby meets the eligibility criteria for babywearing such as:
– Stable and predictable: off the ventilator, stabilized breathing and no more extended periods of difficulty in breathing
– Can be easily moved and carried
– Can feed from bottle or breast, without supplemental tube feeding
– Baby’s lines wires, cords, and other medical devices are secured and protected
How many pounds is considered a preemie?
Babies who weight 5 pounds (2.26kg) or even less when they’re born are considered as preemies. These babies are usually born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
How should I carry a preterm baby?
You should carry a preterm baby carefully and gently. Make sure to keep their mouth and nose visible at all times. Avoid positions that bends their spine and presses their chin to their chest as they can have a hard time breathing.
What is the right carrier size for a preemie baby?
There’s no one-size fits all preemie baby carrier so you have to find and test one that will keep your preemie baby safe and comfortable. Finding the right carrier size is not as important as the position in which the baby is carried.
Best Baby Carrier for Preemies: Takeaway
Just to take note, there’s another baby carrier for preemie babies that I haven’t gotten to yet, the Weego Preemie baby carrier but only because, their Twin carrier is more popular and there’s not a lot of information I can researh on and write about the said carrier.
But I digress.
It’s scary, intimidating and awfully stressful but preemie baby wearing, under the right guidance and proper circumstances, can be life-changing and life-saving.
Just always remember to take extra precautions and consult with your doctor or primary nurse and a babywearing expert on how to better handle your baby.
Take the time to choose the best baby carrier for preemies and test it out as much as you can, before wearing your baby.
It takes some time to get used to it but with enough practice, adequate research, and proper guidance, you’ll be able to babywear your baby with confidence.
I hope this article has helped you in finally choosing the best baby carriers for preemies.
If you like this article, you might also like my other guides such as:
- Happy Baby Carrier vs Solly Baby Wrap [Detailed Comparison Review]
- Baby K’Tan Baby Carrier [Detailed Product Review]
- Ergobaby 360 Vs Omni (Which One Is Better?)
The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
