We have used both baby slings and the Baby Bjorn with our kids and both us and our kids loved them. Our daughter really wanted to be held a lot, so we bought a SlingRider from Infantino. We used it for the better part of three months with her and it was great. Unfortunately, this sling was recalled earlier this year and the Consumer Proudct Safety Commission (CPSC) issued advised consumers not to use sling with infants under four months old.

As my wife and I discussed it, we really don’t think that a sling is a realistic option for a child over four months old, so if you want to listen to the CPSC, you probably should avoid a sling. I’m not sure I think that they are really dangerous, but I also don’t think you want to take unnecessary risks with your kids either.

So, that really leaves baby carriers. We absolutely love our Baby Bjorn and both of our kids loved it as well. When they are younger, you can carry them in the Bjorn facing toward you and as they get older, they can be carried facing away from you. A brand new Baby Bjorn isn’t cheap ($75 new), but you can get a great deal on a used on on eBay or on Craigslist.

The only drawback to the Baby Bjorn is that it can put a bit of a strain on your back and shoulders. If you plan to take a lot of walks or use it for long periods, you might want to consider some of the carriers from ERGObaby. They are more expensive ($100-150), but I have heard that they are slightly better on the back.

Hi @beta14chan. When we had our second child, we found that a baby sling was very beneficial, for the baby and for us. With another young child at home, it helped us, and allowed the infant to be close more often. In my opinion, certain babies are happier in slings than others, but most (especially when between 0-3 months old) enjoy as much close contact with parents as possible for natural development, it's just a basic human infant need.

Baby carriers and slings vary in style and fabrics, but the two main types are the carrier and the sling. The carrier is typically a front carrier like a Baby Bjorn where a baby is held either facing towards or away from you in a harness style padded carrier. These tend to be appropriate for older babies who are unable to hold their heads up. Consult product age recommendations for use. The other product style is a baby sling. This style wraps or rests over a parent's head and shoulders diagonally, in front or even in back, with the infant resting or sitting. (see attached images). Safety concerns around proper use and potential infant injury have prompted safety recalls on certain products (see US News and World Report cited article below).

Some top carriers (based on a Consumers Report article) are listed here, but please shop and try them out on your own, ask friends and your doctor for advice as well:

Moby Wrap (Sling)
Baby Bjorn (carrier style)

You can also consult thebabywearer.com for more examples of products and parenting information about how to keep your baby happy, safe and comfortable while in a carrier or sling.