The use of mechanochemistry in carbohydrate chemistry is currently a growing field in which many new developments are being made because of its potential application in green methodologies. Ball milling (BM) is a promising eco-friendly technique with excellent characteristics that allows mostly solvent-free, faster and energy-efficient reactions. In this context, we provide in this perspective review a critical summary and discussion of the main known synthetic methods for carbohydrates based on mechanochemistry. The combination of the promising properties of mechanochemistry with carbohydrate reactions can be advantageous for setting strategies aligned with the green chemistry principles.