Carrying a baby can be hard, especially for plus-size parents. You want a carrier that fits well and feels comfortable. The Tushbaby hip carrier is popular because it’s easy to use and helps your back.
But does it work for curvier bodies? In this review, we’ll talk about the Tushbaby plus size fit, comfort, and what real users say. This will help you decide if it’s right for you.
What Is the Tushbaby?
The Tushbaby is a hip seat carrier. It’s like a belt with a seat for your baby. You wear it around your waist, and your baby sits on the seat. You hold them with one arm, so your other hand is free. It puts the baby’s weight on your hips, not your back or arms. This makes carrying easier.
The Tushbaby works for newborns up to 3 years old, or 45 pounds. You can use it in four ways: for feeding, side carrying, front-facing, or face-to-face. It has five pockets for diapers, wipes, or your phone. You might not need a diaper bag. The carrier has soft padding and is safe for babies and adults.
Does It Fit Plus-Size Parents?
Fit is important for plus-size parents. The regular Tushbaby fits waists from 23 to 44 inches. This works for many people, like women’s sizes up to about 20-22.
If you need more room, you can get a waistband extender. It adds 24 inches, so the Tushbaby fits waists up to 68 inches. This covers most plus-size parents.
For example, a size 28 might have a 48-inch waist. The extender makes it fit well. The extender is easy to attach with Velcro and a clip. You can share the carrier with others, like a smaller mom or bigger dad.
Some reviews say fit depends on your body shape. A size 14 parent (about 34-36 inches) said they needed the extender to feel secure, even though they fit the regular size. A size 18 user said the Tushbaby “just fits” without the extender, but it felt tight. If your waist is close to 44 inches, you might want the extender.
Is It Comfortable?
Comfort matters a lot. The Tushbaby helps by putting your baby’s weight on your hips. This saves your back and arms. It has a wide waistband with soft foam padding. You need to wear it high, above your hips, like a tight belt. This helps it stay in place and feel good.
For plus-size parents, this can help a lot. Carrying a toddler can hurt your back, but the Tushbaby makes it easier. The adjustable waistband lets you find the right fit. The padding feels soft, even for bigger bodies.
But comfort isn’t the same for everyone. One parent with a long body said it wasn’t as comfy as other carriers. Your body shape might change how it feels. Make sure to wear it high and tight for the best comfort.
What Do Users Say?
Many parents love the Tushbaby. They say it’s easy to use and helps their back. But we need to know what plus-size parents think. Here’s what some said:
- A size 18 parent said, “It fits, but it’s snug.” They didn’t use the extender but thought it might help.
- A review said size 14 parents often wanted the extender. They felt the regular size wasn’t secure enough.
- Another review heard complaints that the regular Tushbaby isn’t plus-size friendly without the extender. The waistband needs to overlap, so it fits smaller than 44 inches.
On Reddit, people like the Tushbaby for being comfy when worn tightly. But there aren’t many plus-size reviews. This makes it hard to know for sure, but most say it works if you adjust it right.
The Tushbaby website says it fits “many sizes.” It can even be a nursing pillow for plus-size moms. This makes it useful for feeding and carrying.
Why Plus-Size Parents Might Like It
The Tushbaby has features that plus-size parents will like:
- Adjustable Size: Fits 23 to 44 inches, or 68 inches with the extender.
- Less Pain: Puts weight on your hips, not your back.
- Pockets: Five pockets for diapers, wipes, and more.
- Easy to Use: Simple to put on and take off.
- Many Uses: Works for carrying, feeding, and storage.
Things to Watch Out For
The Tushbaby isn’t perfect. Here are some things to think about:
- Extender Costs Extra: You pay more for the waistband extender.
- Fit Varies: Some people need the extender even if they’re under 44 inches.
- Not Hands-Free: You need one hand to hold your baby.
- Few Plus-Size Reviews: Not many curvy parents shared their thoughts.
How Does It Compare?
Let’s compare the Tushbaby to other hip seat carriers. The Ergobaby Hip Seat has a shoulder strap, so it’s hands-free. But it costs more and has less storage. The Chicco Hip Seat fits waists up to 46 inches but doesn’t have an extender.
| Feature | Tushbaby | Ergobaby Hip Seat | Chicco Hip Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waist Size | 23-44 inches (68 with extender) | Not clear | 23-46 inches |
| Extender | Yes | No | No |
| Pockets | 5 | Few | 1 |
| Hands-Free | No | Yes | Yes |
| Price (Approx.) | $85 + $25 extender | $129 | $50 |
The Tushbaby is great for plus-size parents because of the extender. But it’s not hands-free, and the extender costs extra.
Tips for Using Tushbaby
Here are tips to make the Tushbaby work for you:
- Wear It High: Put it above your hips, under your ribs.
- Get the Extender: If your waist is near 44 inches or you want it looser.
- Try It Out: Test the fit or check if you can return it.
- Adjust It: Move the straps to fit your body.
Is It Worth It?
Does the Tushbaby work for curvy parents? Yes, especially with the waistband extender. The regular size fits up to 44 inches, and the extender goes to 68 inches. It’s comfy because it puts weight on your hips. It’s also easy to use and has pockets for your stuff.
But fit depends on your body. Some parents need the extender even if they’re under 44 inches. It’s not hands-free, and the extender costs extra. Still, most reviews say it’s good for plus-size parents if you wear it right.
If you’re a curvy parent and want a carrier that’s easy and helps your back, try the Tushbaby plus size option. It’s likely a good choice for you.
