Many moms find themselves debating the merits of the Ergobaby vs. Tula carriers. And truthfully, it can be hard to choose between these two soft-structured carriers. The great news is that both of these carriers will give you the opportunity to be hands-free with your little one for a long time.
While baby wraps are nice for the infant stage, both the Tula and Ergo are sturdy enough to help you wear your little one through toddlerhood. And if you’re debating between the Tula vs Ergobaby, here’s a fun fact: they’re actually owned by the same company. Who knew, right? That means that you really can’t go wrong choosing either carrier, but you might find that one fits your family a bit better. Here’s what you should know about the Ergobaby vs. Tula.
Ergobaby vs Tula: What’s the Difference?
Both Ergobaby and Tula are brands that sell a variety of products for babywearing. Both are popular choices that allow you to carry the baby on your front (facing in or out) or on your back. However, the main difference between the two is that the Ergobaby is primarily used for babies and toddlers up to around 33 pounds while the Tula is well-known for offering carriers that are specifically designed for toddlers weighing up to 65 pounds.
The other two noticeable differences: the Ergo360 also allows for a hip carry, while the Tula comes an in array of fun colors. And by “array,” we mean, virtually any pattern and color you can think of under the sun, including specialty patterns. Tula truly lets you get creative and express your personal style as a mom. Now, let’s take a closer look at the two carriers.
Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier
This 100% cotton soft-structured carrier class has gotten a modern upgrade with antimicrobial fabric to provide a hygienic barrier between your baby and the world for peace of mind. You'll get all the benefits that Ergobaby has become known for, with ergonomic design, including a lumbar support cushion to help protect your back, and positioning to ensure the health of your baby's hips. It's non-toxic, machine-washable, and can be used for babies and toddlers from 7-45 pounds. Carry your baby facing out, facing in, on your hip, or on your back.
Benefits of the Ergobaby Carrier
The claim to fame for Ergobaby’s Ergo360 is the variety of carrying positions. The wide seat makes it comfortable and ergonomic for your infant to ride on your chest, facing out, which some parents think is important for brain development. The real stand-out is that the Ergo has a hip carry option, something I always wanted while wearing my babies. Particularly with older babies and young toddlers, the hip carry can feel more natural, and make nursing easy. Finally, with mesh inserts, the Ergo is great for people who live in hot climates or who will be baby wearing while being active.
Ergo360 Features:
- 4 carry positions: front carry inward or outward facing; hip carry; back carry
- Fits babies 12-45 pounds
- Infant insert allows use for babies 7 pounds or larger
- Mesh insert for air flow
Pros & Cons
Pros
4 carrying positions, including hip carry
Cool mesh insert allows for air flow
Use up to 45 pounds
Cons
Must purchase infant insert for use with babies weighing 7-12 pounds
Limited colors and patterns
Seat portion can feel bulky
Baby Tula Explore Carrier
The Tula can carry both newborns and toddlers, so it’s definitely a carrier you can use through the various stages of your baby’s first few years. Parents love the fun prints and patterns, and this carrier allows for three different carrier positions — front facing out, front facing in and back carry. It has a lot of pluses, from versatility of use (it’s good for children up to 45 pounds!) to the fact that you can simply toss it in the washing machine to clean. The Tula also features an optional zip-down large mesh panel that gives both you and baby some more breathing room for warm-weather days.
Benefits of the Tula Carrier
As a brand, one big benefit of Tulas is that they have carriers specifically designed for toddlers. As a mom who has been known to squeeze my three-year-old into a carrier when she’s cranky, I appreciate that.
In terms of the Tula Baby Carrier, the stand-out feature is the array of prints and colors that the Tula comes in and as we mentioned, the toddler-specific carriers that can cart some serious weight. You can choose the specific type of Tula you’re looking for based on function and the weight of the child you’d like to carry. The Tula 6-in-1 is a popular all-in-one option, the Free to Grow accommodates 7-45 lbs.; the Standard, 15-45 lbs, and the Toddler 25-60 ounds.
And if you want to personalize your baby carrier, Tula is the brand for you. In fact, the prints and colors are why some moms are a little obsessed with Tulas, keeping one on hand to match each outfit.
Tula Baby Carrier Standard Features
- Three carry positions: Front carry, inward or outward facing; back carry
- Fits babies 15-45 pounds
- Infant insert for babies weighing 7-15 pounds
- Fun prints and colors
Pros & Cons
Pros
Bold colors and patterns
Positive reviews from users
Wide, soft cotton waist support
Cons
No hip carry option
Price varies based on pattern
Must purchase infant insert if you’re using it with a baby smaller than 15 pounds
What to Consider Before Buying a Baby Carrier
When you’re buying a baby carrier, you want to make sure that you’ll get your money’s worth. Being realistic about the value that a baby carrier will bring you is key, since carriers aren’t cheap. To ensure that you’ll use a carrier enough to make it a worthwhile purchase, ask yourself the following:
How long will you use it?
The greater the weight range for a carrier, the more use you’ll get out of it. Both the Standard Tula Baby Carrier and Ergo360 can be used by babies 7-45 pounds (with the infant insert for the smallest babies), but the Tula does also offer separate carriers that can carry up to 65 and even 70 pounds.
Is it comfortable?
This is a two-part question. You want to look for a carrier that is comfortable for the adult who is baby wearing, and for your little one. Both of these carriers have a wide seat for baby’s comfort. Both have adjustable waist and shoulder bands. The Tula in particular has a wide, soft waist band that supports your core while you are baby wearing. If you tend to run hot, you might like to choose the Ergo for its mesh insert that is even more breathable than cotton.
Do you like the pattern?
On some level, a baby carrier is a fashion item. If you’re excited about the pattern, you’ll probably be more apt to put it on. While the Ergo360 has a few color options, the Tula stands out in this area.
Is it breastfeeding friendly?
If you’re nursing, you’ll want a carrier that you can breastfeed in, so that you can feed your baby on the go. Both the Tula and Ergo360 are nursing friendly.
Final Verdict
Both the Ergo360 and the Tula Baby Carrier are good choices. Ultimately, which is right for you comes down to what you’re aiming for. If you want the most flexibility and utility, purchase the Ergo360. You’ll have more carrying positions to experiment with, including my personal favorite, the hip carry.
However, if you want to add a little pizzaz to your postpartum life, opt for the Tula. With tons of prints, you can find one that makes you feel fashionable—and what new mom doesn’t love that? In addition to being bright and colorful the Tula has a long range of use and ringing endorsements from lots of moms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Tula be worn front-facing?
Yes, the Tula can be used to carry your infant on your front, facing outward. While some parents and babies appreciate the stimulation of the forward-facing baby carrying position, others might find it uncomfortable or overwhelming. Follow your baby’s cues to decide what’s right for you.
Does Ergo own Tula?
Yes, Ergobaby owns Tula. Although they have maintained the distinction as two different brands, the carriers are in fact one company. In 2016 Ergobaby bought Tula for nearly $74 million.
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