Introduction
The Manduca baby carrier is a structured baby carrier suitable for a baby from newborn to up to 20kgs. It can be adjusted to fit different sized adults and to accommodate your baby as it grows.
The Manduca has many padded & adjustable straps including a wide, baby bearing, waist strap and a safety clip at the back. It comes in a variety of colours including limited editions.
In use
My initial thoughts when unpacking the Manduca carrier was that I liked feel of the organic calico fabric against my skin. Also the natural colour scheme is easy on the eye and didn’t scream baby gear. I like it that I’m able to coordinate it with the clothing I am wearing.
It’s a very spacious carrier for both the parent and baby. You can adjust it adjust it to fit the size of your body and the size of your baby. For a newborn the Manduca comes with an infant insert. For an older child it features a head insert to provide support for a sleeping child.
The Manduca can be adjusted so that you can wear your baby on the front, hip & back. I like the large waist band for extra back support.
When using the Manduca I’ve found it comfortable for both myself and my baby. The M style position for my daughter means her knees are a little higher than her bum which is the safest way to carry a baby in this style of carrier. The extension through the middle of the carrier has worked well supporting my daughter’s back as she has grown in length. The wide carry pouch creates a sense of warmth and cosiness which makes her feel safe. She often sleeps in her Manduca carrier.
For me the strap and support system evenly distributes my daughter’s weight and I find that I can comfortably carry her for up to two hours.
I recently hand washed the carrier, if I had wanted to I could have popped it in the machine on the hand wash cycle. I soaked it for a couple hours before hand to get the dirt out, then laid it out in the sun to dry. It felt a little tough afterwards, but after stretching it out and wearing it, it loosened up.
Consider this
When we first used the Manduca it was confusing to know which straps to adjust as there are so many. It’s also time consuming to adjust it between parents. However, we've gotten used to it over time and the ability to share the Manduca and adjust it as our baby has grown has been a big advantage.
Because it’s well-padded the Manduca carrier is bulky (although it doesn’t weigh much) and it can be a little hot-wearing it in the summer.
Overall
Overall the Manduca Baby Carrier is an easy and comfortable way to transport my daughter without the bulk of a stroller. The durability means it will last and grow with our family as it gets bigger.
Thanks to guest reviewers Lisa & Michael and baby tester Valentina.
