If you’ve ever found yourself down the rabbit hole of baby carrier research, trying to figure out which one is best for your body, your baby, and your daily life—you’re not alone. I’ve worn babies through four postpartum seasons and have tried just about every carrier under the sun.
Hope & Plum makes several beautiful carriers, and I’ve used (and loved) each of them in different ways. But when it comes down to comfort, versatility, and long-term wear, the meh dai is my personal favorite of all their carriers.
It’s supportive without being bulky, soft without being floppy, and adjustable enough to work for every stage. And as someone who deals with chronic shoulder and neck pain and is petite (typically a US size 0–2), finding a carrier that truly supports me matters just as much as how it holds my baby.
What Is a Meh Dai Carrier?
The meh dai is a baby carrier that combines the best of two worlds: the adjustability of a wrap and the structure of a buckle carrier. Hope & Plum’s version includes:
- A supportive panel with apron-style fit
- Long wrap-style shoulder straps (in two length options)
- A ring waistband for custom sizing
- Magnetic hood
- A soft, breathable 55% hemp / 45% organic cotton fabric
- Suitable from 7 to 45 lbs
It looks like a lot of fabric at first—but once you get the hang of tying it, it’s one of the most comfortable carriers I’ve ever used.
Why the Meh Dai Stands Out (For Me)
It fits my body better than their other carriers
I’ve tried all of their carriers (and I still use and enjoy), but this one molds to my body in a way others don’t. With wide, unpadded straps that I can spread across my shoulders and back, it distributes weight exactly how I need it. Especially as someone with long-standing neck and shoulder tension, I feel so much more supported in the meh dai than I do in single-shoulder carriers or many buckle styles.
It’s lightweight, breathable, and still supportive
I love soft carriers, but some are too stretchy and start to sag with heavier babies. This one is breathable and flexible, but still holds its shape—and my baby—securely, even with longer wear.
It grows with my baby
This is a true newborn-to-toddler carrier. The panel adjusts as baby grows, and the support doesn’t fade as they get heavier. I’ve comfortably worn mine with tiny newborns and active toddlers alike.
It just feels good
That’s really what it comes down to. It’s the one I reach for when I need a good fit. It doesn’t hurt my body, and it keeps my baby close and calm. That’s everything I want in a carrier.
How the Meh Dai Compares to Hope & Plum’s Other Carriers
Hope & Plum has thoughtfully designed each of their carrier types for different needs and stages. Here’s how they’ve worked for me:
Ring Sling
Great for: newborn snuggles, quick errands, skin-to-skin
Hope & Plum’s ring slings are beautiful and easy to throw on. I love them for quick up-and-downs or cuddling a sleepy newborn. But since they distribute weight over one shoulder, they’re not ideal for my neck and shoulders, especially for longer wears. I still recommend them for short, sweet moments—but I can’t wear them for long stretches.
Stretchy Wrap
Great for: early postpartum, skin-to-skin, learning to babywear
The stretchy wrap is cozy and incredibly soft—perfect for the fourth trimester. It’s a wonderful way to learn to babywear, especially for brand new parents. That said, it doesn’t offer the long-term support I need, and I usually phase it out once my babies get a bit bigger.
The Lark (Buckle Carrier)
Great for: quick back carries, shared wearing between partners.
Hope & Plum’s Lark buckle carrier is lightweight and designed for a wide range of sizes. It has padded straps, a simple apron panel, and an easy snap-on waistband. But I’ll be honest—it hasn’t been the best match for my body. I’m very slim (US 00–2), and even with the safety elastic and all the right adjustments, I’ve found the fit harder to dial in. I’ve lent it to friends with different frames who’ve loved it, so I know it works well for many—but for my build, it’s just not quite right, particularly with a baby. I get a better fit with toddlers.
What About Those Long Meh Dai Straps?
I get it—the long straps can be intimidating if you’re new to this style of carrier. But once you try it a few times and see how the fabric wraps around your body, you’ll realize how customizable it really is. I actually prefer the long straps now because I can tie them in a way that supports me best—whether I’m doing a front carry, hip carry, or back carry.
And if you’re worried about getting it just right, there are tutorials (including ones I’ve shared) and a welcoming babywearing community that’s always happy to help.
Final Thoughts
Not every baby carrier will work for every body—but for me, the Hope & Plum meh dai is one I absolutely love. It’s supportive, adjustable, and comfortable in a way that meets my needs—not just my baby’s.
If you’ve tried ring slings or buckle carriers and haven’t found the right fit, or if you’re looking for something that can support you through years of babywearing, I truly believe the meh dai is worth exploring.
It’s not just my favorite Hope & Plum carrier.
It’s one of my favorite baby carriers of all time.
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Want to find my guide to help narrow down your perfect fit? Check it out here!! Let’s Talk Choosing Your Carrier!
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