What is a hybrid carrier?

A hybrid carrier combines the best features of a wrap and a buckle carrier. While it resembles a soft-structured carrier, it includes fabric ends that tie around your body instead of buckling. Hybrid carriers typically have two shoulder straps and two fabric ends that secure around your waist, providing a snug fit. These carriers are versatile and easily adjustable for different users. Although you’ll need to learn how to tie the knots, it generally requires less practice than mastering a full wrap. With a hybrid carrier, you can comfortably wear your baby on your front, back, or hip, making it a flexible option for various carrying styles.^1,2

Before Getting Started

Consider the age and weight of your baby to find the right style selection you need. Hybrid carriers come in a variety of colors, fabrics, and textures. Choose a hybrid carrier based on the climate, a lightweight and breathable fabric is usually best. Hybrid carries are size inclusive and will fit most body types well and will adjust to your growing baby. 

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and proper safety guidelines while babywearing in your hybrid carrier. Newborns should always be wrapped on the adult’s chest in an upright position.

Safety Checks:

• Baby’s airway is clear
• Baby is close enough to kiss
• Baby’s neck, back, and hips are well aligned and supported

How to do a Front Carry with a Hybrid Carrier

Step 1

• Take the hybrid carrier like an apron and tie it around your waist with the base of the carrier in front of your body

Step 2

• Next, hold your baby in your hands – their belly to your belly.

Step 3

• Support your baby with one hand and with the other hand lift the straps of the hybrid carrier over your baby’s back.

Step 4

• Take both end straps and pull them upwards and symmetrical over your shoulders and cross them on your back.

Step 5

• Pull the straps tightly.

Step 6

• Bring the straps to the front of your body and over your baby’s legs.

Step 7

• Cross the straps under your baby’s bottom. 

Step 8

Breastfeeding in a Hybrid Carrier

You can quickly learn to breastfeed in a hybrid carrier, which can make social interactions less overwhelming and more enjoyable. Practicing babywearing and breastfeeding at home in front of a mirror can build your confidence and encourage public outings. Babywearing in a hybrid carrier will allow you to nurse discreetly keeping your baby calm and satisfied at the breast. 

Step 1

• Untie the knot behind you.

Step 2

• Support your baby’s bottom, then bounce up and down. Your baby’s weight will pull the wrap down to the level of your breast to latch. Don’t let your baby fall too low or you will need to provide support with your hands as you breastfeed.

Step 3

• Once your baby has latched and you are both comfortable, tie the wrap ends behind your back.

Step 4

• After breastfeeding, lift your baby high with one hand and untie the knot behind you with the other.

Step 5

• Tighten each end by pulling upwards until your baby is safely secure. Then tie the knot again behind you. 

Pros & Cons of Hybrid Carriers

✔Easily adjustable to be shared with other caregivers

✔Can be used with babies of all ages

✔Lighter and cooler than a wrap or structured carrier

✘Takes some practice but is not too difficult to learn

✘The top rail is short –  no sun protection for your baby

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, this Aeroflow class expands on some of the topics discussed above:

• Babywearing and Breastfeeding

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References