For first-time parents, navigating the world of baby essentials can be overwhelming. Among the buggies, cots, and endless nappy packs, a baby carrier stands out as a potential lifesaver, offering a secure, hands-free way to transport your little one both at home and on the go.
Putting Popular Carriers to the Test
As a soon-to-be first-time mum, I embarked on testing some of the market's most popular baby carriers. My goal was to find options that are easy to wear, feel secure, and look good. From a £24 Amazon bargain to the celebrity-adored Artipoppe, I tried them all, using a teddy bear as a stand-in for my unborn baby. A key piece of advice? Always read the instructions thoroughly before attempting to use any carrier with your newborn, as the straps and clips can be confusing for beginners.
Luxury and Celebrity Endorsement: The Artipoppe Zeitgeist
You've likely spotted the Artipoppe Zeitgeist Baby Carrier on social media, worn by celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Chrissy Teigen, and Princess Eugenie. Priced at £370 from Harrods, it sits at the premium end of the market. The carrier arrives in luxurious packaging, and the fabric feels exceptionally high-quality. It's straightforward to fit, fastening around the waist and over each shoulder, with adjustable neck cushions and bottom widths.
However, while marketed from birth, it may be too large for very tiny newborns; it likely suits babies from three months old, truly excelling from one year onwards. It's machine-washable but not particularly weather-proof. The standout feature is its undeniable style and comfort—it feels fantastic to wear and makes a stunning gift.
Affordable Style and Practical Picks
If you love the Artipoppe aesthetic but not the price, the Momcozy PureHug Baby Carrier is a superb alternative at £49.99. Its leopard print design is eye-catching, and it offers a similar adjustable fit for babies aged 3-24 months. The fabric is comfortable, making it an excellent value choice.
For a more practical, feature-focused option, consider the Carifit Core at £195. It boasts breathable fabric, adaptive sizing, a zip-up pouch, and even a companion app. It attaches over the head and feels exceptionally supportive, potentially ideal for those with back concerns. While the fabric isn't the softest, its design seems most suitable for newborns from the selection tested.
For those on a strict budget, the Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier is currently on sale from £24 on Amazon. It has thousands of positive reviews. Personally, I found the instructions complex and the fabric somewhat plasticky, but it remains a safe, budget-conscious option, especially with its water-resistant, wipeable surface.
Final Verdict for New Parents
Choosing a baby carrier is a personal decision balancing budget, style, and functionality. The Artipoppe leads on luxury and aesthetics, the Momcozy offers fantastic style for less, and the Carifit provides superior support and innovative features. The Infantino proves that safe carrying can be achieved on a tight budget. As a mum-to-be, I'll be reaching for the Carifit for those early newborn days, while the Artipoppe remains the aspirational, chic choice for later on.
