This is the second in our Beco ‘E’ Series, see our previous post on Baby Carrier Ergonomics.

Beco ‘E’ Series - Article 2 - Baby Carrier Economics

Economics is the current buzz word. What’s going on with the economy and how you can minimize the impact on your family is on every radio, TV and newspaper. So we bring you our own version, Beco Butterfly II Economics.

In this uncertain market many families feel that the Beco Butterfly is an extravagant purchase. Something unnecessary and not warranted. Why spend $139 on a baby carrier when you can get one for $39? Lets break it down and find out why making room in your budget for a Beco Butterfly is actually a wise choice.

The prime time for babywearing is the first two years of your child’s life. And to take it even further, you will probably log 90% of your carrying hours in the first 18 months. The two years after 18 months, up until your child is approximately 3 or 4 years old a baby carrier is usually used more seldom, on longer trips or in special situations. So we’ll say you will get 18 months of good use out of your Beco Butterfly if you purchase it when you are pregnant or shortly after your little one is born. That makes your cost per month approximately $7.75. We’ll say you only use the carrier every other day in those 18 months (although we know you’re going to love it so much you will use it every day!), so that works out to 52 cents per use.

I am sure there will be a hundred times in your child’s first 18 months when you would happily pay ten times 52 cents in order to calm a fussy newborn, keep a toddler’s hands off the breakables at Macy’s, or be able to keep your infant entertained and happy while you quickly vacuum the floors before your in-laws arrive!

So why the Beco Butterfly over another less expensive carrier? First, longevity. With the integrated and removable infant insert, the Butterfly is a carrier that you can begin using right away yet will still be comfortable when your child is 30 pounds. Second, flexibility. While a cheaper carrier will only work for a short period of time and usually only do positions that are good for infants, the Beco Butterfly can be used on your front or on your back. That back option being the key, as your child gets older and bigger back carries are the comfortable way to go. And finally, ease. The Beco is a carrier that is simple to use on both front and back, packs up small, and will make it easy for you to use regularly.

Lets throw out a few more numbers for those of you with math minds. The average family will purchase at least two strollers for their children. And some families purchase four or more before their baby days are over! The first stroller the average family will purchase is a combination stroller which accommodates infants in a semi-reclined position and will change into a seat style stroller for toddlers. The lower end of strollers in this category cost $250. The second stroller families purchase is either an umbrella style stroller that is smaller and lighter to use with their toddler, or if the family is growing it might be a more expensive double stroller.

So that first stroller with a price tag in the $250 range might see 18 months of use with the first child. Perhaps it will get used again for another child, but often not, as the family grows and changes. Now I’m going to make it really inexpensive for you to purchase your first Beco Butterfly carrier. Skip the combination stroller. There, I’ve saved you $250– spend $139 on a Beco and it’s like I’ve actually paid you $111 to buy a Beco.

When your child is a toddler perhaps you’ll want an umbrella stroller (a good one might be just shy of $100), or if you’re expecting a second child you can go straight to a double. Or if you’re willing to be a bit unconventional, skip strollers altogether and get a nice wooden wagon that will hold 2 or more kids plus your cooler and supplies for a day at the zoo and won’t be shunned by your 6 year old as being too babyish.

Sure, a good quality baby carrier is an investment and one you shouldn’t take lightly. Make sure you’ll get your money’s worth with a carrier that is flexible, comfortable and one that you will love to wear! You’ll find that having a carrier that works from birth through toddlerhood, like the Beco Butterfly, may actually save you money by making some other baby gear unnecessary.