Front Baby Carriers

Front carriers are soft infant carriers that are designed to be worn on the wearer’s chest. Though many infant carriers are considered soft carriers, front carriers typically refer to structured soft carriers that rely on firm fabrics and padding to keep their shape even when not in use.

Most structured front carriers have a basic design that features two straps that are worn over the wearer’s shoulders to hold the infant against the wearer’s chest and stomach. Some models may also offer a waist strap to provide an additional level of support and security. When worn in a front carrier, an infant is supported across his bottom or crotch depending on the carrier’s design. Some models may offer a padded headrest to provide head and neck support for your little one.

Front carriers are best suited for infants who are able to sit up without assistance and toddlers who are within the carrier’s maximum weight capacity.

The most common carry position that is used with front carriers is the snuggle hold. When in the snuggle hold, the child is sitting up while facing the wearer with his legs and feet popped outside of the carrier. Some front carriers will allow you to carry an older child in the sumo carry position, which is the same as the snuggle hold except the child faces out instead of facing the wearer.

Although the carrier’s name would suggest that front carriers can only be worn on the wearer’s front, some models do offer the versatility to carry your infant on your hip and/or back. If you are interested in using your front carrier in a hip or back carry position, you should check with the manufacturers’ instructions to determine if the carrier can be safely used in that position. 

Due to their primary front carry position, front carriers allow parents to bond with their children and develop a stronger connection since they are able to interact with each other during periods of extended wear. Front carriers are a great choice for first time baby wearers because they have an easier learning curve than some of the more complicated styles of carriers such as slings and wraparounds.

Don’t feel that a front carrier will suit your babywearing needs? Take a look at our article outlining the different Baby Carrier Types and our Baby Carrier Buying Guide to find out which style of baby carrier will meet your needs.