Boba Wrap Baby Carrier Review
Note that this post is not sponsored by Boba or any other company; the opinions expressed here are my own. This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.
In this article, I will fully review the Boba wrap (BW). We’ll go through the pros, the cons, and why I’ve found the BW the most useful during the newborn phase while raising all four of my babies. I’ll also share step-by-step instructions and my top tips for how to wear and use a BW. This will help those who are a little intimidated by this style of baby carrier. Note that the information in this article also applies to the Moby wrap or other wrap-style baby carriers. Whether you choose the BW, or the Moby wrap, or something similar, this article is for you. I will mainly refer to the BW in this article because that’s what I personally own and have used with my four babies.
why choose a wrap carrier for your baby
There are a lot of different types of baby carriers out on the market. Since you clicked on this article, you’re probably considering a wrap baby carrier. Great choice! While all baby carriers provide hands-free convenience for parents, I personally prefer wrap style baby carriers for newborns over any other style. I then transition to a soft shell carrier when baby gets older and heavier. Here are the reasons why I prefer and recommend a wrap style carrier such as the BW for newborns:
Closer Physical Contact - wrap carriers position your baby very snug against your chest. This position is soothing because they can feel your warmth and hear your heartbeat. I personally love my newborn to be as close to me as possible, even when I’m folding laundry or preparing a meal. This close physical contact helps mimic the warmth and coziness of the womb by pressing baby close to your chest.
Softer Fabric - wrap carriers are made from softer fabric than soft shell carriers (ex: Lillebaby, Tula, Ergobaby, etc). The fabric is soft enough to press directly against a newborn’s delicate skin without any abrasive straps or clips.
Easy To Wash - let’s be real: newborns make messes frequently. Being able to throw your wrap carrier in your normal baby laundry without worrying about removing straps or clips is very convenient. Convenience is key for new parents!
Privacy and Discretion - wrap carriers provide a discreet way to breastfeed your baby while on the go. It can also keep your newborn out of sight or arms reach from those who may otherwise get a bit too close. This is especially helpful while out in public during cold and flu season.
Customizable Fit - a new mom’s body changes a lot during the first few weeks postpartum. With this style of carrier, you are always ensured a comfortable fit without having to adjust multiple straps. It’s helpful as your weight and breast size may fluctuate during this time. This also makes it easy for a partner or spouse to get involved with the baby wearing. It’s also a customized fit for your baby as they grow. Not all soft shell baby carriers can adjust small enough for a tiny newborn.
Cost - one other benefit of the BW (and other wrap-style carriers) is that they are lower in cost. Many soft shell carriers cost well over $150. That may not be in the budget for some families. With their simple design, wrap carriers provide the convenience and comfort at a fraction of the cost.
how i use my boba wrap baby carrier
Although I have other carriers, I grab my BW first for my newborns. This was especially crucial as my family grew and I had multiple children. With two kids under two and then three kids three and under, I needed both hands (and then some!) to keep up with my toddlers while caring for my newborn. Not to mention cooking meals, doing endless laundry, and so on. Having a baby carrier that kept my newborn extra close and cozy was important to me. With my second, third, and fourth newborns, I used my BW almost daily. It was truly a life saver.
I use my BW exclusively until my babies were about twelve to fourteen weeks old. When they started gaining more weight and getting a little bit of head control, I started moving to the soft shell style carrier. It’s not that the BW stopped working. It’s rated for babies up to 35 lbs. This was more a personal preference as I felt more secure with a soft shell carrier when they got heavier. I also like the enhanced back support that makes more a difference as baby grows. Additionally, other carriers provide more flexibility for positioning baby. This matters once they get a bit older and get full head control. Personally, I’ve been really happy with my Lillebaby carrier once my little ones grow out of the BW. If you want to learn more about other types of baby carriers, I wrote a full review on the top 5 most popular baby carriers. You can check it out here.
How to use a boba wrap baby carrier
I will include the steps to wear a BW below. If you want more detail, including a video of me demonstrating how to put on my BW, I had a full in-depth tutorial article that may help.
assemble everything you need
Grab a wrap carrier of your choice (BW, Moby wrap, or any other brand). I highly recommend you wash it before using it with your baby for the first time. Newborn skin can be very sensitive.
Find a flat surface or a clear, uncluttered space
If you’re nervous about using a wrap carrier for the first time, consider practicing these steps first with a doll, stuffed animal, or other object before trying with your baby. I remember using a large spaghetti squash my first time to make sure I wrapped it properly and that it could hold the weight.
2. Find the right starting position
Position the BW by spreading it on a flat surface. A bed or a table both work well for this. Be sure the wrap is free from tangles or twists.
Locate the center panel of the wrap and identify the middle marker. You will always keep this marker in the front center of your body.
3. put on the boba wrap carrier
With the middle marker facing out at stomach level just under your breasts, place the wrap flat against your abdomen. The rest of the wrap fabric should be on either side of you.
Cross the two long tails of the wrap behind your back, still at abdomen level
Pull the tails over your shoulders and cross them in front of your body. Make sure they are not too twisted as this can create discomfort for you once baby is in. Make sure everything is tight with no bunching or loose fabric. If needed, work the fabric to ensure everything is tight.
Cross the tails again in front of your belly just inside the belly panel. The center marker should be the furthest layer from your body by now.
Cross the tails behind your back again at waist level.
Securely tie a double knot. I personally like to tie the knot in the front of the wrap. You can choose what is most comfortable
4. position your baby
Carefully slide your baby into the wrap, ensuring their legs are in an “M” position. Knees should be higher than their bottom. This prevents hip dysplasia. Baby should be facing your chest.
Spread the fabric across baby’s back and shoulders, removing any bunching and creating a comfortable and secure wrap. There should be a total of 3 panels that directly support your baby. The belly panel and the two crossed side panels.
Adjust for comfort and security if needed. You may need to tighten the wrap. Your baby is positioned correctly if their head is close enough to kiss and you can see their face. They should be resting comfortably in their snug, secure, warm wrap.
5. safety check
Ensure baby’s airways are clear and they can breathe comfortably
Always keep your baby’s face visible. This will ensure you are able to monitor their breathing.
Make sure baby’s legs and hips are positioned comfortably.
Baby’s back should be straight, not slumping. They should be vertical with their head and neck in a neutral position. The chin should not be tilted up or down.
Remember to be patient as you learn to use a wrap style carrier. It can take some practice! Once you get the hang of it, you will love the many benefits of the BW. Over time, you will get a lot faster and more confident. I remember feeling unsure my first couple of times, but it’s now very easy to use.
With the tips in this article, you are ready to wear your BW like a pro. Wishing you all of the best baby carrier newborn snuggles!
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