Happy Baby= Happy Mommy

This carrier from Infantino is one of the best that I have tried. I was given several as shower gifts and have tried all that I was given before making exchanges. I was given one that cost a substantial amount more and two that were equal or less in value. There were several reasons that I kept this one and several reasons that I did not choose the others.

Here were some things I considered when making my decision:
1-comfort for baby and myself

Because this carrier is so light and made of soft fabric, this baby carrier was very comfortable to the touch. It has a padded wrap around for head support of the baby, which is key when baby cannot quite hold their own head up (as they gain head control, it folds down so as not to obstruct baby's view). The shoulder straps are also padded and contoured to be comfortable on Mom's shoulders. The straps are adjustable so you can get a custom fit, and they are easy to change, so that multiple users can get the right fit. I also really like the fact that the buckles are in the front...this makes them easy to get to and yet, the are not in the way. There are no plastic pieces that are weighing on the wearer's shoulders or baby's body. The criss-cross straps also help to distribute the weight of the baby (8-26 pounds is what is recommended by the manufacturer).

2-durability/washability

I have been using this carrier for several months now, and it has really held up nicely. I have washed it several times, and the black fabric is just as dark as the first time is was taken out of the box. Because the baby and the wearer are in such close proximity, it can get warm, so I recommend frequent washings...this carrier can take it!

3-look

Because this carrier is basic black, with just a hint of color, it matches everything (including my diaper bag) and doesn't stand out as a "baby" item. It is cute, fashionable, and well suited to wear with anything.

4-strength

This carrier is carrying your most precious cargo, so this is an important category. When I first started using it, I never took my hands off the baby while she was in the carrier. Once I was a more seasoned mother and user of the carrier, I soon realized that it wasn't necessary to do so. The baby is well supported, the straps stay in place and do not loosen, and the baby doesn't jiggle or bounce around. Once you put this on, you will feel just how strongly your baby is being supported.

5-ease of use

I have read several other reviews that make it sound like this is tricky to get baby in and out of...I am not sure what exactly they mean. The sides of the carrier open, you place baby against your body, snap the sides closed and are on your way. You can also open the arm slots and leave the leg slots open, hold the baby over the carrier and then close the arm slots shut. I also find the carrier easy to put on myself. It goes over your head and then you bring the straps in front of you and they snap securely. I think after using it once or twice, anyone should be able to figure it out. Like I said earlier, I have tried other carriers and this was truly the easiest.

Other important information:
-at $34, this is much more reasonably priced than some popular carriers (we keep one in each car)
-has a zippered pocket in the front for cash, credit card, and a pacifier
-has a small toy near baby's arm slot (our daughter loves it)
-sold many places

If I could think of any drawbacks, I would share them, but using this has been smooth sailing (yes, we have taken her in it on the boat!).