baby carrier is useful for carrying your baby close to you when he needs comforting or won’t settle, and for outings where a pram or pushchair is impractical. When you first try on a baby carrier it can seem fiddly, with a daunting number of straps, poppers, buckles or zips to master. But parents who are long term users of carriers agree that with familiarity and practice, using one becomes second nature.

It’s essential to try on a carrier before buying, just to get an idea of the fit. If you decide to buy your first baby carrier while you’re pregnant, let your partner try it, and if it doesn’t fit you well after the birth, check whether the shop will take it back.