Product review: A new mum tests out the Babybee Joey Carrier

Jordan was searching for a carrier that felt snug, secure and easy to use. Did the Babybee Joey deliver?

By Jordan Kretchmer

As a new mum, I wanted a carrier that felt secure for my baby, comfortable for me, and practical enough to use every day without any fuss. After several weeks of putting the Babybee Joey to the test, from quick errands to longer walk, here’s my honest verdict.

Rating: 9/10

Verdict: The Babybee Joey is a lightweight, versatile, and thoughtfully designed carrier that genuinely makes day-to-day life with a baby easier. It has a supportive waistband and breathable designs. What makes its stand out the most is its easy to put on and adjust, meaning both parents can share it with minimal hassle. Also importantly, it feels secure – my baby is snug and content, and I never worry about their head or breathing being compromised.

Babybee Joey Pros and cons

Pros

• Lightweight and breathable; ideal for Australian weather, especially coming into summer
  
• Black fabric hides marks and keeps it looking neat
  
• Baby can be placed in before doing the carrier up, no juggling or second person to help needed
  
• Head placement feels secure: baby’s airway is safe and unobstructed
  
• Soft head support doubles as a sunshade
  
• Wide waistband takes pressure off the shoulders
  
• Easy to adjust with baby in it, which makes great for swapping between parents
  
• Pocket fits phone, keys, headphones, or even a spare nappy
  
• Folds into its own bag for travel
  

Cons

• Pocket could he fraction bigger
  
• Fabric is more structured than a wrap, less “cuddly”
  
• Straps require tweaking as baby grows
  

First impressions: Lightweight, sleek and supportive

When I first unboxed the Joey, what stood out was its lightweight feel. It didn’t look bulky or intimidating, and I appreciated that the black colour wouldn’t show marks from daily use. Compared to softer wraps I’d tried, this one felt more structured and ergonomic from the start – like it would actually support me and my baby over longer stretches.

Everyday use: From errands to naptime

I started using the Joey when my baby was still a newborn, and right away shefelt snug and secure. I loved that I could place her in the carrier and then do it up, without needing to put her down first. It made the whole process calmer and less fiddly.

From morning dog walks to errands and housework, the Joey quickly became part of my daily routine. It’s especially useful for those times when I need two free hands but still want to keep my baby close. More often than not, she goes to sleep in it, which says everything about how comfortable she feels.

Comfort for parents: No shoulder or back pain

Comfort is where the Joey shines. I’ve worn it for more than 90 minutes without shoulder pain or back strain, and I will be able to wear it for longer as she grows older. The wide waistband takes most of the weight, meaning the shoulders never feel pulled forward or sore. The balance of weight distribution gives me confidence that I can use it even as my baby grows heavier.

Another standout is how easy it is to adjust while wearing. The cross X-style strap slips over easily first so you can then position the waist band and baby before adjusting the straps, which glide smoothly. My partner and I can switch between us without too much fuss, we found with other carriers this adjustment was more difficult. 

Baby’s experience: Snug, supported and content

The most important factor, of course, is how my baby feels in it. With the Joey, she’s snug against my chest but not squeezed, and her head placement is always secure. I never worry about her being too squished or her breathing being restricted, which gives me enormous peace of mind.

The soft head support has been invaluable. It props her head gently when she’s sleeping, and doubles as sun protection on bright days. Combined with the breathable mesh panels, it keeps her comfortable in different weather conditions.

Practical features that make life easier

The Joey has several small but clever touches. The pocket is big enough for essentials: my phone, AirPods, a key, or even a nappy in a pinch. While it could be a little larger, I still use it daily. I like that this feature is permanently attached rather than an add on so there are no extra parts to lose. 

The fact that the carrier folds into itself is also a bonus. It means I can stash it in the pram basket or nappy bag without it taking up loads of space. For travel and car trips, that feature alone makes it stand out.

Style and care: Functional yet stylish

I like that the black colour is both practical and neutral. It doesn’t scream “baby gear,” so it pairs easily with my outfits and looks streamlined. The fabric is structured rather than plush, but that’s also what makes it feel supportive. Cleaning has been simple: it’s machine washable, and so far it’s held up beautifully.

Is it worth it? Absolutely! Here’s why…

For me, the Babybee Joey has ticked all the right boxes. It’s safe, easy to use, and comfortable for both me and my baby. The biggest selling point is the secure head and body positioning – I never have to second-guess if my baby’s airway is clear, or if she’s too squashed. That peace of mind is priceless.

Yes, it’s a premium purchase at around $249.99, but when you consider the daily use it gets, and the fact it will last from newborn to toddler years, I think it’s excellent value.

If I were recommending it to another parent, I’d say this: the Joey is the carrier that makes life easier. You can put it on solo, swap it quickly between partners, and wear it for long stretches without pain – all while knowing your baby is comfortable and safe.

Where to buy: Available from babybeeonline.com from $249.99.