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If you’re expecting a baby or have a newborn at home, you may find yourself thinking about whether you want to get a baby carrier. In my opinion, the answer is yes! I can’t say enough good things about baby wearing. Both my husband and I carried our babies around daily in an array of baby carriers until they were toddlers. The best non-toxic and organic baby carriers will make your life easier on a daily basis while also keeping your little one safe and cozy.
I loved using a baby carrier for so many reasons: my hands were free to get things done, the kids took long naps in them, I could hike and get my body back in shape after pregnancy, and best of all — so many precious baby snuggles! Moms can even breastfeed in many baby carriers while on the go.
If you’re thinking of getting a baby wrap, sling, or structured carrier, read on to find out more about organic baby carriers before taking the plunge.
The Many Benefits of Baby-Wearing
Baby carriers have tons of benefits for babies and parents alike. They help babies create secure attachment bonds to their caregivers and regulate their emotions, as the comfort of being close to their parents soothes their distress. The tummy-to-tummy position can also help soothe colic and upset stomachs, which is harder to do when babies are lying down.
Research shows that carried babies actually cry significantly less and are soothed more easily by being close to their parents’ warmth and heartbeat, a similar sensation to when they were in the womb. Moms and dads who baby-wear also tend to learn their babies’ cues quickly and know how to address their needs.
Being in a baby carrier also helps avoid babies getting flat heads from lying on their back too often in swings and rockers, and it helps support the development of their core muscles, as they’re more likely to want to look around and see the world. In sum, baby-wearing has a ton of fantastic (and helpful) benefits for both parents and babies.
Why Go With Organic Baby Carriers?
An organic cotton baby carrier is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly baby-wearing option. Unlike conventional cotton, which is usually treated with a range of harsh chemicals and pesticides during the farming and manufacturing process, organic cotton is grown using natural methods that are free from synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). You also know that an organic baby carrier hasn’t been sprayed with any dangerous fire retardant chemicals.
Organic cotton is not only safer and healthier for babies to come into contact with as they’re snuggling up and dozing in their carrier, but it’s also better for the environment and for the farmers who grow it. Organic cotton also tends to turn out softer and more breathable than conventional cotton, making it a comfortable and gentle option for parents to both clothe and carry their babies around in.
As babies get older and begin teething, this can lead to some serious chewing action on your baby carrier. Both of my kids used to gnaw on the shoulder straps of their carriers like dogs on a raw hide (ha), so I began covering my carrier straps with organic cotton teething pads to make sure they were chewing on the safest possible material.
A Word About Healthy Hip Support in Organic Baby Carriers
The concept of “hip healthy” support is really important in the baby-wearing world, as it refers to the proper positioning and development of a baby’s hips while using a carrier. Here’s the deal: babies are born with an immature hip joint that continues to develop during their early months and years of life.
The proper development of this joint is crucial for the long-term health and function of the hips, so you want to make sure they’re being supported in a developmentally appropriate way when they’re in a baby carrier for extended periods of time.
When holding your baby in your baby carrier, it’s super important to make sure that the carrier supports your baby in the natural position of the hips, known as the “M” or “frog” position.
In this M position, the baby’s hips are flexed and spread apart, with the knees bent and higher than the bottom. This position allows the hip joints to develop properly and reduces the risk of hip dysplasia or hip dislocation.
What you never want to see is a baby’s legs dangling straight down, with knees below the hips. If a baby carrier does not support the hip healthy position and instead lets your baby’s legs hang straight down or even too far apart, it can put stress on the developing hip joints and increase the risk of hip dysplasia or dislocation. That’s why choosing a baby carrier that supports the natural position of the hips is essential for baby’s hip health.
The bottom line: buy a hip-healthy carrier, and always check your baby’s legs to make sure they’re in the proper frog/M position when loading them into it.
9 Best Organic Baby Carriers and Accessories
Here are the best organic baby carriers for baby-wearing that you can buy — or better yet, add to your registry so someone else can get you a really nice gift!
1. Baby K’Tan Wrap ($59)
The Baby K’tan carrier is a soft, comfortable baby carrier made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton. It’s designed to be easy-to-use and doesn’t have any complicated buckles or straps (or require a Master’s degree in origami!), making it a great choice for new parents or those who are new to baby-wearing.
I LOVED using my K’tan when my babies were in their first three months. It was easy to put on and it felt cozier and cuddlier at that age than the more structured carriers I switched to later on.
Plus, when babies are tiny, you don’t really need the additional support of the hip belts of the larger structured carriers to help support them. This wrap is basically a snuggly baby hug that frees up your hands for hours a day to get things done and stay sane.
The Baby K’tan comes in a range of sizes to ensure a good fit for both the wearer and the baby, and it can be used in a variety of different carrying positions, including a newborn hug, a kangaroo carry, and a hip carry.
The Baby K’tan carrier is conveniently machine washable and can be tumble dried on low. They recommend sizing down if you’re between sizes and using your pre-pregnancy shirt size on their sizing chart to ensure the right (read: snug) fit.
The International Hip Dysplasia Institute says on their website that “Baby Wraps and similar carriers generally promote the optimum position for hip health.”
This kind of wrap carrier is recommended for carrying newborns by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute over the structured kind of carriers in which newborns’ legs are spread out, as it more properly supports their developing hip joints for the first few months of life.
2. Beco Gemini Organic Baby Carrier ($79)
As someone who truly loved my Beco Gemini Baby Carrier when my kids were babies, I can attest that it’s an easy-to-use and very comfortable organic baby carrier, especially for hiking and longer walks around the neighborhood. Having this carrier was a huge help in everyday life with a baby (and even more so with a baby and a toddler to chase around!). It’s made from organic cotton fabric that’s soft and breathable, so you know it’s safe even if your baby starts teething all over it.
The Beco Gemini features adjustable shoulder straps and a thick, supportive waistband, allowing for a customized fit for whichever parent is using it. It also has a padded headrest and leg openings to provide support and comfort for your baby. I also like the pocket on the waistband, which is just big enough to cram your keys or your phone into.
You don’t need to use an extra infant insert to wear a newborn in this carrier (it’s suited for babies seven pounds and up). However, I would personally follow the guidelines of the International Hip Dysplasia Institute on that and use a wrap style carrier first for a few months before transitioning to this or any other structured carrier.
One of the things I appreciated most about my Beco Gemini was the ability to use it in multiple carrying positions, including front inward-facing, front outward-facing, and back carrying, which allowed me to switch it up as needed and keep my baby entertained. This carrier can accommodate babies and toddlers weighing up to 35 pounds, so you’ll be able to use it for quite some time. Besides the K’tan wrap, my Beco was my favorite baby carrier with my kids.
My only issue with the Beco is that its fabric is on the thicker side, so it can get pretty toasty in there if you’re walking around in the summer sun for long periods of time. If you are concerned about your baby over-heating and you plan on taking a lot of hikes and warm weather walks, you may want to look to the Boba organic baby carrier instead (next up on this list of organic baby carriers).
Beco carriers are specifically crafted and rigorously evaluated to foster optimal hip development at every stage, guaranteeing the well-being of your baby’s hips. These carriers have obtained the esteemed “Hip-Friendly” certification from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, ensuring that they adhere to the highest standards of hip health.
3. Boba Classic Organic Baby Carrier ($79)
The Boba Classic Organic Baby Carrier is another versatile and comfortable organic baby carrier that is made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton. This carrier features a simple and classic design which accommodates newborns and toddlers weighing up to 45 pounds (10 pounds more than the Beco, but only if your back can handle it!).
The Boba carrier features adjustable shoulder straps and a waistband, allowing for a customized fit for your body, and includes an infant insert that provides extra support for small babies. It can be used in multiple carrying positions, including front inward-facing, front outward-facing, hip, and back carrying. I especially appreciated its detachable hood for sun protection in the warmer months and its handy front belt pocket.
The Boba’s back panel is thinner than the Beco’s, which can feel a little less structured at first, but also doesn’t get as hot during the summer months. Every parent will have their own favorite carrier, so you should absolutely go try these out at the store before deciding if you aren’t sure which one to go with!
Boba’s carriers have all been certified “Hip Healthy” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
4. Lillebaby Complete Organic Touch 6-in-1 Ergonomic Baby Carrier ($99)
The Lillebaby Complete Organic Touch 6-in-1 Ergonomic Baby Carrier is a versatile and comfortable baby carrier made from soft, organic cotton fabric. I tried a Lillebaby out for a few weeks with my second baby, and I loved how soft and easy to use it was.
Like the Beco and the Boba, this organic baby carrier offers several different carrying positions, including front inward-facing, front outward-facing, hip, and back carrying. It also has an adjustable waistband and padded shoulder straps to provide a customized and comfortable fit for the baby-wearer. Most importantly, the Lillebaby supports baby’s hips correctly in the all important “M” position.
The Lillebaby Complete Organic Touch carrier is designed to accommodate newborns to toddlers weighing up to 45 pounds, and includes an infant insert to ensure proper positioning and support for newborns. The carrier also includes a handy (and pretty roomy) zippered pocket for storing essentials like keys and phone while on the go. These details matter, people!
The Lillebaby Complete carrier is also certified as a Hip-Healthy product by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
5. Nature Baby Organic Ring Sling ($99)
If you’re drawn to the looks of a simple ring sling, the Nature Baby Organic Ring Sling is a beautiful unstructured organic baby carrier that works well for younger and lighter babies and is made from organic cotton. The sling only comes in this copper-colored fabric, which is soft and breathable. The sling is adjustable, allowing for a customized fit for the wearer and the baby.
The ring sling can be used in a variety of different carrying positions, including tummy-to-tummy, hip, and cradle, making it a versatile and convenient carrier. It’s designed to support babies from newborns up to 35 pounds, though I can’t imagine carrying a toddler that heavy without some hip and back support provided by a structured baby carrier.
This carrier is made with GOTS certified organic cotton, so it is produced using sustainable and socially responsible practices.
6. Oscha Slings ($113 and up)
Oscha Slings is a unique company that specializes in creating high-quality, eco-friendly organic baby wraps and carriers. Their products are made from a variety of fabrics, including organic cotton, linen, bamboo, and ethically sourced wool, and are hand-woven on traditional looms. Very old school! The company offers a wide range of beautiful designs, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find a style that suits your taste.
Oscha Slings’ products are designed to be comfortable and safe for both the wearer and the baby, with features such as padded shoulder straps, adjustable waistbands, and a variety of different carrying positions. The company also prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production processes to minimize its environmental impact. Earth Mamas, rejoice!
Just make sure baby’s legs are in the proper M/frog position if you buy one of these products. Oscha says that The International Hip Dysplasia Institute has acknowledged its wraps, ring slings, and carriers as “hip-healthy baby carriers (when used as directed).”
7. Nuna Cudl ($220) *Made with some organic cotton elements
The Nuna Cudl is an ergonomic, partly organic baby carrier designed to keep both the parent and baby comfortable during use. It’s made from OEKO-TEX certified fabric for the body of the carrier (Note: this means the fabric is non-toxic, though it is not made from organic cotton), and it comes with two GOTS certified organic cotton bibs included for the part of the carrier that touches your baby’s face (these are both washable and removable to clean up all that baby drool).
The carrier features adjustable shoulder straps and waistband, allowing for a customized fit for the wearer, and also has a magnetic buckle for easy and secure fastening. The Nuna Cudl offers multiple carrying positions, including front-inward, front-outward, hip and back, and can be used for infants and toddlers weighing between 8 and 35 pounds.
It also includes a detachable and washable bib to help keep the carrier clean and extend its lifespan.
Helpful Accessories for Organic Baby Carriers
Even if you don’t end up getting an organic baby carrier, you can make any baby carrier safer with some organic cotton teething pads for when your baby starts chewing on everything in sight.
1. Boba Organic Teething Pads ($7)
The Boba Organic Teething Pads are a handy accessory for baby carriers that help protect the carrier from drool and chewing while also providing a safe teething surface for your little Chew-bacca. These pads are made from 100% organic cotton fabric and are designed to fit most soft-structured baby carriers, including the Boba carrier.
The pads are easy to attach and remove with snap closures and are machine washable.
2. Ergobaby Teething Pad and Bib for 360 Baby Carrier ($25)
If you already have an Ergobaby 360 and are interested in getting a teething pad/bib, this accessory is made of organic cotton, so your baby can chew and drool all over it without your needing to worry.
2 Other Great Non-Toxic Baby Carriers
There are many other baby carriers out there that are awesome for baby-wearing but aren’t made of certified organic materials. Some of them (like those below) have been tested to be non-toxic and certified safe by OEKO-TEX Standard 100 as not emitting any unhealthy chemicals.
I personally like the idea of using one of these carriers if they seem right for you, but adding on some organic teething pads for the parts the baby will be chewing on, just in case. Here are some great non-toxic baby carriers for hands-free baby-wearing.
1. Tula Discover Free to Grow Baby Carrier ($179)
The Tula carrier is made of 100% OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified fabric that is safe and free from harmful chemicals. It comes in a variety of gorgeous prints to choose from.
This beloved carrier has a huge following among baby-wearing parents, and it supports toddlers all the way up to 45 pounds. It also provides healthy hip supportive positions.
2. BabyBjorn Carrier One ($199)
BabyBjorn’s Carrier one is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, so it doesn’t emit harmful chemicals, and it promotes healthy hip support, unlike some of their other carriers, which do not. This is a bulkier mesh carrier that can handle babies up to 33 pounds and is well suited for tall parents (this was my husband’s preferred carrier when hiking with our babies). It’s easy to use and supports baby’s weight with a waist belt that you can adjust.
I didn’t find this carrier as snuggly as, say, the Boba, the Beco, or the Lillebaby, and the magnetic side snaps took some getting used to. It can support front or forward facing carrying easily, though, and it can be easier to swing your baby onto your back by yourself than with some other carriers. That made it great for hiking as a family, as did its mesh fabrics for cooler baby-wearing.
Non-toxic and Organic Baby Carriers for the Win
If you’re thinking about stocking up on things like non-toxic teethers, bottles, and pacifiers for your little one that are made of the safest possible materials, it might also be worth considering putting an organic baby carrier (or two) on your registry.
Especially when your baby begins chewing and mouthing the carrier (which is guaranteed to happen, I promise!), you’ll want to at least ensure that the parts of the carrier she is chewing on are non-toxic and eco-friendly.
Happy baby-wearing, parents!
