Finding the best baby carrier for petite moms can be challenging.
I have a petite 4’11” (149 cm) friend who got so frustrated on finding the right one, she swore off using them and just depended on a stroller or someone (spouse mostly) to carry her newborn baby.
Which is kinda sad, because she missed out on the pure bliss of snuggling her baby without her arms getting tired.
Plus you can do a lot more with a baby carrier! Like grocery shopping with your newborn, cleaning the house, comforting them when they won’t stop crying, and such. But I digress.
Scroll down to see the best baby carriers for small moms plus more info!
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List of Contents
Best Baby Carrier for Petite Moms
Baby K’Tan Original
Comfort
This is probably one of the most popular, best baby carriers for petite moms – the Baby K’Tan Baby Wrap.
They should have actually called this a pre-folded wrap because it’s ready to use and there’s no wrapping to do! I’m sure that’s already a plus point to any mom who doesn’t want the hassle of wrapping a fussy, crying baby in a parking lot.
It’s also 100% made of cotton, making it a cozy and a breathable wear for both you and your baby.
Baby Weight Limit
This is suitable for newborns up through toddlers (8-35lbs).
Carrying Positions
You can carry your baby in five different positions – front inwards, front outwards, hip carry, “kangaroo position” and “explore position.”
You can be assured of its safety (when used properly) as the Baby K’tan Breeze Carrier is ASTM and CPSIA compliant. Plus, the International Hip Dysplasia Institute acknowledges it as a “hip-healthy” product.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
It’s a suitable baby carrier for petite mom who are even under 5 feet.
Parents love how safe and snug it feels – they can easily tuck their baby’s head into the wrap so it’s fully supported. That’s probably because of its patented double-loop design, made for a more secure and safe baby carrying experience.
If you’ve gotten over its learning curve of using it, it’s easy to put in and out your baby, without any assistance.
Unlike other baby wraps, you don’t need to worry about long pieces of fabric dragging on the ground. Nor do you have to tinker with rings, buckles or bulky waistbands. The Baby K’Tan contours and wraps around your back diagonally in an “X” shape, fitting your waist smoothly and comfortably.
Take note though that it comes in different sizes (starting at XXS), which means you can’t share this with your spouse or any adults.
Also, if you get the wrong size, you won’t be able to use it and carry your baby properly.
Design
It comes in 4 simple but classy colors which you’ll appreciate if you like basic, straightforward designs.
Extra
The Baby K’Tan is lightweight, making it one of the best baby carrier for small moms, as it’s easy to carry everywhere or stow it when not in use. Some moms have used it when breastfeeding although it might take some time getting used to it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for petite moms who are under 5 feet | Not adjustable – if you order the wrong size, you can’t adjust it |
| Easy to put on and take off – great for fussy babies | Not shareable – can’t share with any adult |
| 5 carrying positions | Parents complained that it’s hard to carry heavier babies (20lbs and up) |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Some said that the fabric is too hot, making babies uncomfortable |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Fits to your size (starting at XXS) | |
| Can be carried and stored easily | |
| Machine-washable |
Check out a detailed review here of the Baby K’Tan Original baby carrier.
Tula Free To Grow
Comfort
Another best baby carrier for petite moms is the Tula Free To Grow. It’s a lightweight, breathable baby carrier, making it easy to pack on the go, which petite moms will love.
It’s suitable for hot weather and warmer climates as it’s single layer panel is made of 100% cotton, allowing for greater breathability and airflow.
Baby Weight Limit
It’s designed for a child weighing from 7 to 45 lbs – for infants (even without the infant insert) and even up to toddlers, giving you more mileage for your money.
Carrying Positions
It only has 2 carrying positions though, the front inward (facing parent) and the back carry. For some, those 2 basic positions are already adequate for their needs.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
This is a great baby carrier for a small mom but it might not be comfortable for those who are under 5 feet.
Parents usually rave about how easy it is to put on. You don’t need to adjust it for so long and make it a breeze to take the baby in and out of it.
You can also share this with your spouse or other family members who have a larger, taller build, as it can be adjusted for different body styles.
It ensures an even distribution of your baby’s weight so both you and your baby will feel comfortable, even for an extended period of time.
Design
This is probably the strongest suit of the Tula brand – their many adorable, stylish designs to choose from!
I know some moms who are addicted to this and has a growing collection of Tula baby carriers.
Extra
Plus points is its machine washable and its pocket for your keys and what not.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to put on and off – great for fussy babies | Might feel a little bulky for extra petite moms (under 5 feet) |
| Lightweight and compact – easy to bring on trips | Has only 2 carrying positions |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Expensive |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | There are also complaints about needing an infant insert for newborns and younger babies |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | |
| Comes in different colors and patterns | |
| Machine-washable | |
| Has a small pocket |
Check out my Tula Free To Grow vs Tula Explore here.
Beco Gemini
Comfort
Another option as the best baby carrier for petite moms is the Beco Gemini Baby Carrier. It has a sleek, unbulky design which makes it a comfy everyday wear. It’s perfect for running errands and doing chores while carrying your clingy baby.
Carrying Positions
It offers 4 carrying positions – face in, face out, by the hips or back carry, with many people finding the back position more comfortable.
Some parents said it’s also easy to change the position of their baby from front to back without even needing to take off the carrier.
Baby Weight Limit
It’s made for babies and even toddlers from 7 to 35 pounds. You don’t need an infant insert if you want to use it for your newborn.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
Not only does it have padded shoulders and easy-to-use adjustable straps, it also has a waistband extender, which makes it flexible for any body type.
This is suitable baby carrier for short moms who are 5 feet and up.
The back position also offers better support, safety and comfort. It can lessen the back pain for the wearer and make your baby snug and cozy, allowing your little one to sleep more easily.
The baby’s seating area can also be adjusted as they grow.
The Beco Gemini also evenly distributes your baby or toddler’s weight throughout your hips and shoulders. It keeps the strain and pressure off on one part of your body, making it comfortable to wear.
There’s also some extra padding for the leg holes and head support for newborns, keeping your baby snug and comfy.
Design
It comes in over 25 different colors and designs including Cool Mesh Lemons, Forest Critters, Llama Drama Day, Cool Navy and more.
Extra
Some small moms have also used this while breastfeeding, with ease and comfort. Another plus is its waist belt which has a large pocket, to keep your phones and keys and that it’s machine washable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable for short moms (5 feet and up) | Some say that straps can be difficult to fasten and unfasten |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | Hard to adjust for some |
| 4 carrying positions | There are complains about tension on their lower back |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Others have complained how its material irritates their child’s skin |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | |
| Built-in headrest for newborns and extra leg padding | |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Machine-washable | |
| Has a small pocket | |
| Comes in different colors and patterns |
Boba Wrap
Comfort
The Boba wrap is a classic, traditional wrap that is made from 95% cotton/5% spandex.
That means its stretchy fabric enables it to contour and wrap to your body and to your baby, for a snug and comfy fit. It’s a great baby carrier for a short mom.
Baby Weight Limit
It’s made for babies weighing from 8-35 lbs so you can use this for up to 1.5 years or until 18 months.
You can use it immediately for the smallest of infants for it’s super snug fit.
Some parents swear that it helps soothe their colicky babies. It emulates the feeling of being in their mother’s womb, easily soothing and calming them.
Carrying Positions
You can carry your baby in a front inwards position but some parents can also do the front outward position.
The front inwards position lets your baby’s arms and legs dangle or you can also tuck them in.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
This is a comfy wear for petite moms (5 feet and up) who have gotten the hang of using a baby wrap.
This baby carrier can be shared with your spouse or any other different-sized adult since it’s a one-size-fits-all wrap. Even those with a plus-size frame can use it!
Its stretchy material allows for better positioning for growing babies. It distributes weight evenly and can support the baby’s natural ergonomic position.
There’s a learning curve though in properly wrapping it around your body because of its lengthy fabric (5.5 yards).
Design
There are several color options to choose from and it has no rings or straps, making it super simple to use.
Extra
It is machine-washable and spots clean with ease.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable for petite moms (5 feet and up) | Takes some time to learn proper wrapping technique |
| Considered as “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Extra fabric is difficult to manage – needs to be tied or stuff to avoid touching the ground |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Hot to wear on warm days |
| Can be used as a nursing cover/while breastfeeding | Might be hard to carry heavier babies |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Machine-washable |
Check out my Boba vs Moby wrap review here.
ErgoBaby Omni 360
Comfort
The ErgoBaby Omni 360 is one of the most popular and trusted brands of baby carriers. It’s made of 100% cotton with a padded waist belt and shoulders, making it a soft and comfortable wear.
Baby Weight Limit
I’ve personally used this for my kid when she was 2 months old until she was 2.5 years old. You can use this for newborns up to toddlers. (7 to 45 pounds)
Carrying Positions
It allows you to carry your baby or toddler in 4 different positions: Front carry facing in, front carry facing out, hip carry, back carry.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
It’s also adaptable to different body sizes, letting you share this with a bigger built adult.
It might be a little bit overwhelming to wear though for petite moms, especially who are under 5 feet, what with all the paddings and buckles.
But once you get the hang of it, you can also easily put on and off the carrier without needing anyone’s help. I should know, I’ve used this excessively and I can wear, take in and out my baby without my husband’s help.
It’s ergonomic design is approved by the Hip Dysplasia Institute, making it a hip healthy baby carrier!
It’s padded lumbar support waist belt and it’s padded shoulders also offer extra support and comfort.
It’s softer structure ensures a natural M-shape position for your baby’s legs and hips. The wide waistband and leg holes makes it also a comfortable place for your baby to sit and snuggle in. And it’s overall ergonomic design helps with your baby’s hip and spine development, for all carrying positions.
Design
It’s available in dozens of colors and design such as Marine, Grey, Pink Grey and Dandelion.
Extra
Some moms can also use it when breastfeeding, given that it has a tuckaway hood for security and privacy. It’s also machine washable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to put on and off on your own | Might feel bulky for petite moms, especially those under 5 feet |
| 4 carrying positions | Can get hot and might not be suited for warmer climates |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | Expensive |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | |
| Has tuckaway hood for privacy and breastfeeding | |
| Machine washable | |
| Has a detachable storage pouch for your keys, wallet, etc. |
(Check out my comparison review of the Tula vs Ergobaby carrier here)
Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling
Comfort
The Nalakai Luxury Ring Slings (formerly known as Pura Vida Slings) is an eco-friendly baby carrier made of bamboo linen fabric.
It’s lightweight yet ultra-strong fabric material ensures that your baby will stay cozy all throughout, without feeling too hot nor too cold.
Another perk of its bamboo linen fabric is that it’s UV reflective, keeping your baby protected from the sun’s rays.
The fabric doesn’t bunch on it’s rings, there’s no tugging and parents love how it glides and it feels on the skin.
Baby Weight Limit
It’s designed for kids weighing 8-35 lbs, so you can use it from newborn up to toddlerhood, giving you more mileage for this baby carrier.
Carrying Positions
It offers 3 positions for wearing: wrapped on your chest, on your hips or on your back.
The chest or front wearing allows for a more natural position to carry your baby, helping even gassy or colicky babies stay at ease.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
This ring sling baby carrier fits adults of all sizes – from petite moms (5 feet) to plus size moms, making it a flexible and comfortable wear. It can also work for slender or plus size women with short torsos.
It’s ergonomic design provides even distribution of your baby’s weight, ensuring a safe and proper hip and spine development and lessening the pressure on your neck and shoulders.
Design
It comes in various color options, including Light Sea Green, Ocean Tide, Beach Stripe, and Earth Mama Cream.
Extra
Not only is the Nalakai Luxury Ring Sling CPSIA and ASTM compliant, parents are raving about its amazing customer service.
That’s because the owner of the company replies to inquiries herself, helping you with any baby wearing questions and concerns!
Breastfeeding moms will appreciate it’s extra fabric as a nursing cover. You can also roll it and use it as a pillow for your baby.
It’s affordable and best of all, you can get a lifetime guarantee!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable for petite moms (5 feet and up) | There’s a learning curve when using for the first few times |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Some parents have complained of its uncomfortable fabric |
| Budget-friendly | Parents also complained of the the constant need for adjusting and tightening |
| Can be used as a nursing cover/while breastfeeding | Parent’s have also complained of the lack of back support for the baby |
| Lightweight, organic, and breathable material | |
| CPSIA and ASTM compliant | |
| 5% of profits go to charity | |
| Eco-friendly |
Babybjorn Baby Carrier Mini
Comfort
The Babybjorn Baby Carrier Mini is a very lightweight, petite-friendly carrier that is suited for newborns or smaller babies. Both you and your baby won’t feel overwhelmed with so many fabrics and materials to deal with. It’s a great option as one of the best baby carrier for petite moms.
It offers a 3D Mesh fabric design option, which is well suited for warm climates, keeping both baby and moms (or dads) cool and comfortable.
Baby Weight Limit
You can use this immediately after your baby is born and is designed for babies weighing 7-24lbs.
Carrying Positions
It offers 2 carrying positions – facing inwards and facing outwards.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
Both petite moms (5 feet and up) and large adults can wear this baby carrier as it comes with adjustable straps. It also allows you to wear the straps in criss cross fashion at the back, for better back support.
Parents love the head support it offers to their baby and how it doesn’t feel like their little ones are pressed uncomfortably on their chest, allowing some freedom of movement.
It’s also easy to wear, put in and out your baby all by yourself, without needing the help of another adult.
Design
It comes in different styles – cotton, 3D mesh and 3D jersey. It also offers multiple colors such as Dusty Pink, Pearly Pink, Navy Blue, and more.
Extra
Some parents swear about it’s snug and comfy fit, soothing fussy babies into having longer naps. It can also help babies with reflux stay upright after feeding.
Some moms have also used it while breastfeeding.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to put on and take off – great for fussy babies | Might feel a little uncomfortable for extra petite moms (under 5 feet) |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Carries only up to 24 lbs |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Has only 2 carrying positions, some parents might find it a bit limiting |
| Machine-washable | Can only be used for short babywearing sessions |
| Comes in different colors | Some parents complained of back and shoulder pains when using it for heavier babies |
| Has comfortable and cooling mesh fabric – suitable for warm weather |
Sakura Bloom Ring
Comfort
The Sakura Bloom Sling is made from silky Belgian linen, which looks and feels lighter than the fabric of other leading slings, perfect for warmer climates.
It’s designed to feel soft against your baby’s skin and can feel comfortable and snug for petite moms.
Baby Weight Limit
This sling can be used for newborns up to toddlers (7-35lb).
It’s well suited to support your baby as securely as possible and you’re sure of it being hip-healthy as all Sakura Bloom baby carriers has been certified by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, and has also been lab-tested to comply with all current US government, ASTM, and CPSIA safety standards.
Carrying Positions
You can use it for 2 carrying positions – front inward front and side hip.
Adjustability/ Ease of Use
It’s a very simple sling with no extra padding or specific shaping, making it easy to carry everywhere. It can be comfortable for extra petite moms (under 5 feet), as long as you’ve gotten over the learning curve of wrapping and tying it.
There’s a learning curve initially on how to use the Sakura Bloom ring though but once you get the hang of it, using it is a breeze.
You can also share this with your spouse or any adult who has a bigger built than you, as it’s highly adjustable. Petite moms (5 feet and up) will find this really comfortable.
You use it also when breastfeeding, with the extra fabric as a cover and even as a blanket or car seat cover or germ shield when needed!
For pregnant women, it can also be used as a bump wrap to alleviate some of the pelvic and low back pain that occurs during late pregnancy.
For moms who had a c-section, this might be a more comfortable choice as it doesn’t require any sort of band or tie around your waist.
Design
It’s available in classic yet gorgeous prints and colors, which moms will love.
Extra
It can be used straight from the box but it’s not machine washable though.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be comfortable for moms under 5 feet | Learning curve for wrapping and pulling the sling fabric |
| Certified “hip-friendly” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute | Not machine washable |
| Grows with your baby – from newborn all the way to toddlerhood | Expensive |
| Highly adjustable – can share with your partner | Some parents complain of back and shoulder pains from carrying their heavier babies |
| Lightweight and breathable material | Other parents find the material rough for the baby’s skin |
| Can be carried and stored easily | |
| Can be used comfortably by c-section moms | |
| Very versatile – can be used as nursing cover, blanket, car seat cover, etc. |
Buying Guide: Best Baby Carriers for Small Moms
- Longevity
Consider how long you want to use the baby carrier.
Do you prefer something you can use all throughout, from newborn to toddlerhood? That would give you mileage for your money.
Or are you okay with using something for a shorter time then updating it as your baby grows?
- Safety
You must feel that your baby is safe in it. They’re not slipping down, they are snug and comfy against your body and you feel confident carrying them.
It should also offer adequate support, ensuring proper spine and hip development of your baby.
Most baby carriers are certified “hip-healthy” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute and bear compliance with all current US government, ASTM, and CPSIA safety standards.
You can check out the list of all “hip-healthy” baby carrier brands here.
- Baby’s Comfort
For your baby, they must be in an ergonomic M-shape position for proper hip and spine development. An ideal baby carrier should support your baby’s back and legs, as well as their neck.
It should also distribute the baby’s weight evenly to reduce back, shoulder and even neck pressure.
Also, keep a lookout for any rashes or marks on your baby’s body after using the baby carrier. Take note as well if your baby is getting too hot and sweaty inside the baby carrier.
- Wearer’s Comfort
You shouldn’t be feeling any back or shoulder pains. Make sure that it’s also comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
If you usually have shoulder and/or neck , then it’s probably not wise to choose a ring sling. If you don’t like bulky waistbands that digs on your back, then maybe a wrap might be suitable for you.
If you live in a warmer climate, consider also how breathable and comfortable the material is.
- Adjustability
The best baby carriers for short moms should feel easy to adjust, put on and take off, without help from another adult.
Take note of how easy it is to adjust it and how to handle the extra fabric for baby wraps or slings. You shouldn’t be worrying too much about extra fabric, large buckles, bulky waistbands, etc.
It’s also ideal if you can adjust and share the baby carrier with your spouse or another adult.
- Price
Consider your budget. There are popular baby carriers that are high quality but pricey. But if you research thoroughly, those can be easily replaced with a lesser-known but equally quality brand.
- Carrying Positions
Think about how you want to use your baby carrier. Or do want your baby to see the world and make them face front? Would you be comfortable carrying them at the back?
Are you okay with using 1 or only 2 carrying positions or would you prefer a baby carrier that offers 4 or even 6 carrying positions?
You can check out more tips on how to choose a baby carrier here.
Takeaway on the Best Baby Carrier for Petite Moms
It really depends on the individual but a lot of petite and extra small moms have sworn about the comfort of wearing Baby K’Tan.
Coming close as a top contender for the best baby carrier for petite moms, according to most moms online themselves, is the Tula Free to Grow.
But you’ll never really know unless you’ve tried it so it’s important to always test first the baby carriers.
(And please don’t wash them yet so you can still return it if it doesn’t seem comfortable for both you and your baby.)
I’d highly recommend also considering the return policy date when buying a baby carrier/wrap/ sling. Purchase it after you have given birth. So you can test out the product with your baby and still have enough time to return it.
Test the baby carrier. Carry your baby while doing chores, go out with your newborn (if it’s possible), etc., so that you’ll really know if the baby carrier feels comfortable for both you and your baby.
