Choosing a Safe, Reputable Baby Carrier: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

Babywearing can feel overwhelming when families first explore the options. Between different styles, safety advice, weight limits and countless online listings, it’s easy to see why so many parents end up choosing a carrier based on price or appearance alone. Unfortunately, that’s also how many end up with counterfeit or poorly made carriers that have never been safety tested.

The good news is that choosing a safe, reputable carrier doesn’t require specialist knowledge — just a little clarity about what matters, and what doesn’t.

There Is Currently No Australian Safety Standard

Unlike car seats, cots or prams, baby carriers in Australia are not regulated. There is:

• no mandatory Australian standard

• no compulsory testing

• no oversight of materials or construction

• no requirement that a product meet any benchmark before being sold

This means quality varies dramatically across the market.

Reputable manufacturers voluntarily test their carriers to internationally recognised standards such as:

• EN 13209 (EU standard for baby carriers)

• ASTM F2236 (US voluntary standard)

• ISO load and pull tests

These brands publish transparent information about their testing and materials. Counterfeits and unregulated copies do not.

What Makes a Carrier Safe?

A safe carrier is not defined by the weight printed on the box. It’s defined by strong materials, solid construction and clear testing.

High-quality textiles

Durable woven fabrics, reinforced cotton, breathable mesh that doesn’t stretch excessively, and structured materials designed to withstand tension all contribute to safety and comfort.

Reliable stitching

Multiple rows of stitching at load-bearing points are essential, especially where:

• shoulder straps attach

• waistbands meet the panel

• ring slings gather the fabric

• meh dai straps join the body panel

• Strong, even stitching matters more than almost anything else.

Correct, tested hardware

This includes:

• non-welded aluminium sling rings (as used by brands such as SlingRings)

• buckles made for outdoor gear

• strong, dependable webbing

• supportive foam that doesn’t collapse

These components are designed to hold dynamic loads — babies who lean, bounce, wiggle and shift their weight.

Transparent testing information

Quality brands explain how they test and why. They want families to be reassured by the process.

What to Avoid

• Very low prices - A brand-new carrier for $30–$60 that looks like a $200 model is not the same product. Counterfeit and untested copies use:

• cheaper fabrics

• weak buckles

• poor stitching

• low-grade webbing

• untested dyes

• Unclear branding or no brand at all - A safe manufacturer proudly identifies itself. Missing, misspelled or generic labels are a warning sign.

• No instructions

• Reputable carriers include clear user guides, safety notes and fit diagrams. Counterfeits rarely include anything.

• Unverifiable online sellers

• Marketplace listings that provide no safety information, no accountability and no contact details are best avoided.

A Quick Checklist for Choosing a Safe Carrier

Positive signs

• Recognisable, reputable brand

• Clear product information and safety testing

• High-quality aluminium sling rings for ring slings

• Strong buckles with brand markings

• Multiple rows of stitching at stress points

• Appropriate pricing for the materials and construction

• Detailed instructions and real customer support

• Positive recommendations from babywearing educators and communities

Red flags

• Very low prices

• No brand name or one that doesn’t appear elsewhere

• “Looks just like” a known carrier but is significantly cheaper

• No mention of testing

• Fabric that feels thin, shiny or inconsistently woven

• Buckles with no markings

• Arrives without instructions

• Sellers unwilling to provide safety details

Buying Second-Hand

Pre-loved carriers are an excellent, sustainable way to babywear safely when a few simple checks are followed.

What to look for:

-⁠ even, intact stitching

-⁠ secure buckles and rings

-⁠ strong webbing

-⁠ no tears, thinning or fraying

-⁠ no mould, mildew or strong odours

-⁠ confirmed authenticity

Quality carriers are built to last and often serve multiple families across many years.

Final Thoughts

Parents shouldn’t need an engineering degree to choose a safe baby carrier. Clear, trustworthy information makes all the difference. When a carrier is made with durable materials, expert construction and proper testing, it will support a baby comfortably and safely throughout the babywearing years.

Choosing reputable brands also supports ethical manufacturing, protects families from unsafe imitations, and ensures a positive, confident start to the babywearing journey.