Choosing a baby carrier can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. Two carriers that have been gaining attention lately are the Happy Baby Original and the Mabe Monarch. Both are soft-structured, hip-healthy carriers with solid followings, but they offer different features, fabrics, and designs that might make one a better choice for your family than the other.
I’m Emily, The Stroller Mom, a mom of three and a car seat passenger safety tech. I’ve tested both of these carriers extensively with my kids, and I’m here to break down the key differences, pros and cons, and what I think about each one from a mom’s perspective. If you’re trying to decide between the Happy Baby and the Mabe Monarch, this post will help you get clear on which carrier fits your needs and lifestyle and I have discount codes for both.
Prefer to watch? Check out my full YouTube review:
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Table of Contents
Quick Overview of the Happy Baby vs Mabe Monarch
- Price: Mabe Monarch is more affordable at $129 (Save $10 by clicking here or using code STROLLERMOM10), while Happy Baby Original is $169 (Save 15% by clicking here and using code STROLLERMOM)
- Weight Range: Mabe Monarch supports babies from 7 to 35 pounds. Happy Baby goes a bit longer, from 7 to 45 pounds.
- Material: Mabe uses a soft linen-cotton blend with lots of padding. Happy Baby has more options, including 100% linen and blends like hemp-linen and cotton-linen, with a more breathable, less padded feel (still comfortable, but fits better in diaper bags).
- Carrying Positions: Mabe Monarch offers front-inward, front-outward (for short periods), and back carry. Happy Baby offers front-inward and back carry, but no front-outward option.
- Design: Mabe has crisscross straps on the back and no chest clip when back carrying, while Happy Baby is a traditional apron style with a chest clip for extra back support.
- Extras: Happy Baby has a built-in, zip-out sunshade. Mabe has a padded head support panel but no dedicated sunshade.
The Mabe Monarch: Affordable, Soft, and Easy to Use
The Mabe Monarch is the newer kid on the block, having been around for about a year and a half. It’s been popping up all over social media because it’s affordable, easy to use, and comfortable for both baby and parent. It retails for $129, but you can save $10 by clicking here or using my discount code (STROLLERMOM10), which is a nice bonus.
The fabric is a linen-cotton blend that feels soft and cozy right out of the box. It’s nicely padded, especially around the leg openings and waist belt, making it comfy for longer wear. The carrier supports babies from 7 pounds up to 35 pounds, which covers most of your infant and early toddler stages. For context, my 3.5-year-old just hit 35 pounds.
The design is pretty straightforward. You buckle the padded waist strap around you, then the shoulder straps cross in an “X” on your back, which helps distribute weight evenly. The straps buckle on the sides, so you don’t have to fiddle with anything behind your back while holding your baby. This is amazing for parents new to baby wearing because it means you can put it on and take it off by yourself without a lot of hassle.
One feature I really appreciate is the adjustable panel with Velcro that lets you customize the seat width and height to fit newborns or older babies. There’s also a snap-in panel that can fold up to support your baby’s head during naps or for a bit of extra sun protection. I’ve used this feature a lot from Disney to days at the zoo when my third baby needed a nap on the go.
On the flip side, the padding and fabric make this carrier a little bulkier to pack in a diaper bag. If you’re tight on space, it might be something to consider. Also, it doesn’t come with a dedicated sunshade, so if you’re often out in the sun, you’ll need to bring a separate hat for baby. I personally don’t use the front carry position often, but you can with this carrier, although it is only recommended for short periods of time. The back carry has been one I have been using for several months now.
What I Loved About the Mabe Monarch
- Very easy to put on and adjust with side buckles
- Soft, cozy fabric with nice padding
- Adjustable seat panel for newborns to toddlers
- Good support for baby’s legs and hips
- Affordable price point with my discount
- Forward-facing carry option (only recommended for 30 minutes)
What Could Be Better
- No built-in sunshade
- Bulkier to pack in diaper bags
- Back carry doesn’t have a chest clip for extra support (I don’t miss it now, but did when she was smaller, around 7 months – I think it depends on your body type and baby)
The Happy Baby Original: A Cult Classic
The Happy Baby Original has been around longer and has a loyal fan base. I’ve wanted this carrier since my first baby, but did not get until my third. It retails for $169, but you can save 15% by clicking here and using my discount code (STROLLERMOM), which brings the price closer to the Mabe Monarch.
One thing that stands out with Happy Baby is the variety of fabric options and limited edition prints. I have the linen version, which is breathable and has slightly less padding than the Mabe, making it feel lighter and cooler. They also offer hemp-linen and cotton-linen blends, which is a nice touch for parents looking for sustainable options. Plus, many of their carriers are made in the USA!
This carrier is designed as an apron style, meaning the waist belt buckles in front and the panel hangs down like an apron when putting your baby in. Your baby sits between the panel and the carrier, with several adjustable points to customize the fit. I have found this carrier provides really good support, especially as my baby has grown.
Happy Baby supports babies from 7 up to 45 pounds, which means you can use it into toddlerhood (they also sell toddler carriers). The built-in zip-out sunshade is a huge plus for me (I have tested over 15 carriers and have never seen this feature before). It tucks neatly into the carrier and can be zipped out when needed, so you never have to remember a separate cover or hat for sun protection. I’ve found this feature super helpful during long days at the zoo or hiking.
One difference from the Mabe is that Happy Baby doesn’t have a forward-facing carry option. While that might be a dealbreaker for some, I have found it is not the essential I thought it would be before having my first. It is generally recommended that facing your baby inward is better for their hip development and comfort, especially when wearing them for longer periods. Plus, you can easily switch to back carry once your baby is old enough (around 6 months), which I did a lot with my kids when doing yard work or going on longer walks.
The one downside is that it can be a little tricky to put on because you have to reach behind to clip the back straps, which can be tricky at first. I remember asking my husband to help me a lot during those early days. But with practice, it gets easier.
What I Loved About the Happy Baby Original
- Supports a wider weight range (7-45 lbs)
- Built-in zip-out sunshade is super convenient
- A variety of fabric and print options
- The chest clip adds extra support for back carry
- Breathable linen fabric keeps you cooler
- Made in the USA options
What Could Be Better
- No forward-facing carry option
- Learning curve with location of back clip
- Higher price point (although my 15% off discount helps)
Side-by-Side Comparison: Happy Baby vs Mabe Monarch
| Feature | Mabe Monarch | Happy Baby Original |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129 (with link $10 off) | $169 (with 15% off code) |
| Weight Range | 7 to 35 lbs | 7 to 45 lbs |
| Materials | Linen-cotton blend, padded | Linen, hemp-linen, cotton-linen blends, less padded |
| Carrying Positions | Front inward, front outward (30 min max), back | Front inward, back only |
| Design | X-Style, crisscross straps, no chest clip for back carry | Apron style, H-style chest clip on back |
| Sun Protection | Adjustable head support panel, no sunshade | Built-in zip-out sunshade |
| Ease of Use | Easy to put on solo, side buckles | Learning curve for back clip |
| Packability | Bulkier due to padding | Folds smaller, more compact |
Which Carrier Is Best for You?
Honestly, both the Happy Baby Original and the Mabe Monarch are great carriers and are ones I reach for all the time, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.
Choose the Mabe Monarch if:
- You want a more affordable option without sacrificing comfort.
- You want a carrier that’s super easy to put on and take off by yourself.
- You appreciate the forward-facing carry option, even if just for short periods.
- You like a soft, padded feel and don’t mind a slightly bulkier carrier.
Choose the Happy Baby Original if:
- You want a carrier that will last longer into toddlerhood (up to 45 pounds).
- You value a built-in sunshade for easy outdoor protection.
- You prefer a breathable linen fabric that keeps you cooler.
- You want extra back support with a chest clip for heavier babies.
- You like having different fabric and print options, including limited editions.
My Personal Experience with These Carriers
I’ve used both carriers with my three kids, and each one has its place in my babywearing routine. The Mabe Monarch quickly became my go-to for quick errands or times when I needed to put the carrier on and off alone without fuss. The padded fabric felt cozy and secure.
The Happy Baby Original is my pick for longer adventures like zoo trips, hikes, or days spent outdoors. The built-in sunshade was a lifesaver, and the linen’s breathability kept both me and my baby from overheating. I also appreciated the chest clip support when wearing my toddler on my back, especially during yard work or longer walks.
One thing to note: I personally didn’t miss the forward-facing option of the Happy Baby because I found inward-facing or back carry to be more comfortable and supportive for my kids, especially when they were tired or overstimulated.
FAQs About Happy Baby vs Mabe Monarch
Are both carriers safe for newborns?
Yes, both carriers are designed to be safe for newborns starting at 7 pounds. The Mabe Monarch has an adjustable Velcro panel to customize the fit for newborns, while the Happy Baby is adjustable with various straps and clips. Always follow the T.I.C.K.S guidelines for safe babywearing. I have heard that some parents have found the Happy Baby Carrier to be slightly easier to get a good fit for newborns.
What does T.I.C.K.S mean?
T.I.C.K.S stands for Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off chest, and Supported back. These are important safety tips to ensure your baby is positioned safely in any carrier.
Can I use these carriers for back carrying?
Yes, both carriers support back carrying. The Happy Baby has a built-in chest clip for extra support when back carrying, which some parents find helpful. The Mabe Monarch does not have a chest clip but is still supportive for back carry.
Is the forward-facing carry safe for long periods?
The Mabe Monarch allows forward-facing carry but only recommends it for up to 30 minutes at a time. Happy Baby does not offer a forward-facing option. I personally have found that forward-facing is not essential for me and my babies. Happy Baby does sell a carrier that allows for forward-facing use, and my code applies.
Which carrier is better for hot weather?
Both carriers use breathable fabrics—linen and other fabric blends for Happy Baby and linen-cotton for Mabe Monarch. I found Happy Baby’s linen fabric to be slightly more breathable and cooler, but neither carrier completely eliminates the heat when babywearing in warm weather. Wearing lightweight clothing and staying hydrated helps a lot.
How do I clean these carriers?
Both carriers are machine washable, but always check the care label for specific instructions.
Final Thoughts: Both Are Solid Picks — It Just Depends on Your Priorities
At the end of the day, the Happy Baby Original and the Mabe Monarch are both thoughtfully designed, comfortable, and hip-healthy carriers that many parents love. Your choice comes down to what features matter most to you.
If you want something easy to use, affordable, and with a forward-facing option, the Mabe Monarch is a strong contender. If you want a carrier that lasts longer for bigger babies and toddlers, has a built-in sunshade, and offers a breathable linen feel, the Happy Baby is worth the extra investment.
Either way, you’re getting a quality carrier that supports safe babywearing and keeps you close to your little one while freeing up your hands.
Thanks for reading! If you want to check out these carriers, I’ve got discount codes for both:
- Mabe Monarch: Save $10 with code STROLLERMOM10 or through this link.
- Happy Baby Original: Save 15% with code STROLLERMOM or through this link.
Happy babywearing!
