Manduca baby carrier

If you walk through the streets today as an observant onlooker, you see babies being carried by their parents on their backs or in front on their stomachs more and more often – usually with a Manduca baby carrier.

Trend, whim, or a return to ancient knowledge?

Carrying babies around – is this a new trend, or a whim, or a return to the ancient knowledge of our ancestors?
Hardly any topic in modern childcare is discussed as much as carrying babies and toddlers. The older generation looks at the various concepts with a mix of envy and skepticism. These range from simple slings to sophisticated designs. For expectant parents, the decision is anything but easy. And once you have decided to carry your baby, the search begins. Is it good for my child? Which model should we choose? Does price or quality decide? What should you look out for?

First of all, parents should realize that they are not just choosing a carrier, but a specific care concept.

It is a big difference whether you drive your child around in a great Stroller or carry them snuggled against you. They hear your heartbeat and are gently rocked; which also has the advantage that some unwanted wind moves out by itself very quickly. It is also important to know that the child's spine only stretches gradually. You should definitely pay attention to this. Newborns sit best with a rounded back in a carrier on the wearer's stomach, similar to the fetal position in the womb. Most baby carriers can only be used from the age of three months.

The Manduca baby carrier

While researching, my attention was particularly drawn to the Manduca. It was developed by a mother who carried her baby and was not entirely satisfied with another model on the market.
The Manduca is built so that a baby sits in the M-position (spread-squat position), which has a very positive effect on the development of the hip joints. In addition, the Manduca has a newborn insert (seat reducer), which distinguishes it from other baby carriers. With slings, there is a risk of performing a wrapping technique incorrectly, so that the baby sits crookedly or the M-position is not guaranteed.

Due to the special design of the Manduca, this risk is minimal. Furthermore, the Manduca can be adjusted to almost all body lengths and sizes using several buckles and padded straps. Due to the length of the straps, it is possible to buckle the shoulder straps crosswise over the back, which is extremely back-friendly. It is completed by an extension via a zipper and a sun and wind cover, which can also be used as a neck roll if required. The Manduca is made of very robust hemp cotton, which can also withstand washing at 40°C.

The seams are neatly and sturdily made, and if something should break, the manufacturer repairs it quickly and easily. Older children who can already sit on their own can also be carried on the back.

Price of the Manduca baby carrier

In terms of price, the Manduca is in the upper segment compared to some other variants. However, it meets the highest physiological requirements, which are not always guaranteed by cheaper providers of carriers and slings.

New, the solid-colored Manduca basic models cost €99 (as of October 2009, at Amazon.de) and an annually released special model costs €111, although you can now also get good used models for around €50.

Read also: Plan your baby shower: tips for organizing it

Photo from Amazon