Need your expertise and advise regarding carrier for 8 month old

[Lucian and Gabriels Mommy]

Hi all,

I have been searching the archives and am overwhelmed with all the fantastic information! But, I am still confused as what my best options may be.

I have an 8 month old (DS#2) who I have been using in the Baby Bjorn, but it is getting quite uncomfortable on my back (he is around 18 lbs. I think). Also, while he loves being in it (he can go for 3+ hours) it is not always practical for me because he is right in front of me and I have a 2.5 year old DS as well.

My needs:
~ something that I can put on easily by myself when running errands with both kids - I often have DS #1 in shopping cart or stroller while carrying DS #2. I also usually put on/take off carrier in parking lot.

~ obviously something very comfortable. I end up carrying him quite a bit when we are outside, whether playing outside the house, zoo, etc.

~ a carrier he will enjoy. He does really enjoy looking around and being part of the action. I think that is why he can go for hours facing outward in the Bjorn.

~ a carier that will last as he gets older. I have a feeling that he will always be my "snuggly baby"

Some other info. I am 5'4", average build. DH will not be using it much, as he travels most of the time. Also, I am not opposed to getting 2 different carriers for different uses, if necessary. I would like to get one soon to get me started. I'm tired of the Bjorn!!!

I know that every carrier works differently for different people, all opinions are appreciated!

Thanks in advance everyone,
Gretchen
Lucian 12/18/01
Gabriel 8/22/03

[Emmas Mom]

I'm definitely not an expert but I just got the "ultra EZ" carrier from One Step Ahead. It's a hip carrier, which is what I wanted, & can be used for toddlers too (DD is currently 9 months). I'm not sure if that's something you'd be interested in but it was only $25 & got good reviews on the website. I've tried it out a couple times & it's very easy to use, comfortable & folds up VERY compactly. Here's the link:

http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp...751&change=117

I was also given some good links to websites that sell other types of carriers. This one www.peppermint.com has types from literally all around the world. It's pretty cool. One of the most popular (from what I've learned) is the 'Ergo'. Another site is www.thebabywearer.com :) Good luck.

[kseltmann]

Kristine,
How long have you worn your new carrier? I have been looking at the hiphugger and it has gotten mixed reviews. This one seems to fit the bill and is inexpensive! What do you use it for and how do you like it?
Thanks,

Kathryn
Emily 9.24.03

[Emmas Mom]

I've only had it a week & so far have used it primarily around the house when she's in one of her "I need Mommy" moods. We're going on two plane trips though (one at the end of this week & one over Memorial Day) & I will be using it quite extensively for both of those. Maybe I should answer after those trips! lol! But so far it has been pretty comfortable & I LOVE how inexpensive & compact it is. I mean, I carry her around on my hip anyway, this way I just have both my hands free. For $25 it's was a hard deal for me to pass up. :)

[kseltmann]

I am looking for something I can keep in the diaper bag so that when she is cranky I can pick her up but not have to hold her completely. You know? Like pushing the stroller, getting the keys out of my bag...
I just hate the "earthyness" of the slings, they are just too much for me. I guess I have to be bold enough to say, I am looking for convenience (and some relief of the rotator cuff tendonitis and bursitis from DD) but I am not "babywearing". Does that make sense?
Kathryn
Emily 9.24.03

[Emmas Mom]

Oh my gosh, I so totally know what you mean. I just cannot do the slings. Backpacks ok, front carriers ok, hip carrier...now that's me. My aunt gave me a maya wrap & not only did it stain my clothes (though it was a pretty reddish color) but I just couldn't get into the "earthyness" either. To each her own. Not that there aren't some cute slings/wraps out there, I'm more about convenience & simplicity...that's the Ultra EZ for me. :) Oh, & it easily fits into a diaper bag.

I'm not sure this is helping Gretchen out though! ;)

[Lucian and Gabriels Mommy]

Thanks for the input- and I don't mind your discussion!! I actually went to peppermint.com and after some more research ended up ordering the Ergo in black. I think that my lil guy will like riding in back - I hope- and that will free me up to do other things. This will be especially useful when I am playing outside with my 2 year old. I also like that it is easy on/off. I don't think right now a sling or wrap is me, I'm a lil intimidated!! I may possibly venture to an ABC, such as the Kozy. I need something ASAP, though.
I also ordered a tentinytoes pouch in thyme. This also seems easy to use and DS loves me to hold him in hip position. So, I figured this may work really well when I don't necessarily need to get work done, but he just needs held. I think it would also be great to throw in the diaper bag for the mall, etc. or quick errands.
Now, I just can't wait to get them - and hopefully all will work out!!!

Thanks again!
Gretchen

[Emmas Mom]

Good luck with them. Tell me what you think of the Ergo. I was very tempted to get it but wanted something forward facing on the front & I don't think you can do that with those. It might be nice when DD is a little older & I want to carry her around on my back though, cause right now all I can picture is a bunch of drool in my hair if she's on my back! he he he...gotta love teething! :)

[Lucian and Gabriels Mommy]

Kristine,
I'll let you know how it works - my DS is almost the same age as your DD. I know what you mean about teethihg - 7 teeth in less than 4 weeks - arg! Lots of sleeples nights!
Gretchen

[Vajrastorm]

We went from using the Bjorn to the Ergo. I have been using the Ergo daily for over a month. It is so much more comfortable than the Bjorn (Aine's close to 21 lbs now). I fnd the Ergo easier than the Bjorn to get on and off. I worried Aine might not like facing in towards me, but she too likes the Ergo.

A friend is using the Sutemi, which is similar to the Ergo but with wider straps that criss-cross.

The Ergo is also "sweeter" than the Bjorn - its like getting a hug all the time. :)