Choosing what stroller to buy as a new parent is not always easy. There are hundreds of different types, brands, and styles to choose from. How do you know which one is right for you? It’s overwhelming to understand which stroller will best suit your needs.
Whether you’re shopping for a new stroller or not sure what kind of stroller you need, you need some guidance. But do newborn babies need a specific stroller?
There is no specific kind of stroller that newborns need. They can be used from birth up to about 3 years old. The best stroller for a newborn baby depends on your personal preferences as well as what you intend to use the stroller for.
In fact, the only thing you should be concerned about is whether it’s comfortable and safe for your baby.
What Kind of Stroller Can a Newborn Use?
Newborns and babies up to about 6 months of age should be placed in a bassinet or infant car seat. Most strollers are not safe for babies this young because their bodies are too large for the seats, the straps are not adjustable enough and they cannot recline flat. A baby with some head control and good neck strength can use an umbrella stroller.
Umbrella strollers have smaller wheels than full-size models and a shorter handlebar, which makes them easier to use with a younger child who may need help to hold on. They are also lightweight and fold easily into small spaces such as an airplane cabin or trunk of your car.
Full-size strollers are designed for older babies who can sit up unassisted, but they can be difficult to maneuver in small spaces like grocery stores or malls. Full-size models typically have larger storage bins underneath their seats than umbrella models, but they may be harder to push given their bulkier size and weight.
Tips for Choosing a Stroller for a Newborn
Here are some things to think about when choosing a new stroller:
1. Weight and size
This is probably the most important consideration when buying a stroller for an infant. You need something that’s easy to carry around with one hand and doesn’t take up too much space in the trunk or backseat of your car. You also don’t want something so light that it feels flimsy or unstable when you’re pushing it around.
A lightweight stroller is easier to carry around and lift into the car, but it may not be as sturdy or durable as a heavier model. A larger stroller can accommodate more weight and might have additional storage space underneath or inside the seat.
2. Ease of folding, storage, and transportation
If you plan on using public transportation or traveling by plane with your baby, then you’ll want a stroller that folds down easily and fits into an overhead bin or under an airline seat without taking up too much space.
The best strollers for newborns are usually made from lightweight materials like aluminum and plastic that are easy to fold up and carry around.
Many parents choose a portable travel stroller because they’re easy to fold up with one hand and store in small spaces like an airplane overhead compartment or trunk.
Strollers with large wheels may be harder to push over rough terrain but are better suited for paved surfaces like sidewalks or city streets. If you plan on traveling by air frequently, look for an umbrella-style stroller that folds up compactly enough to meet airline regulations for carry-on luggage.
3. Check for safety features
Look for features like adjustable straps and harnesses that keep your baby secure inside the seat. Also, make sure there is no way for your child to come into contact with any moving parts that could cause injury if they were to grab them or fall forward. If there are safety concerns, look into other models or brands.
If safety features are important to you, look for the ones that come with them. Some strollers also include brakes that lock in place when they’re not being used, so they don’t roll away while sitting still on a flat surface (like at the grocery store).
4. Consider extra storage space
Make sure the storage basket is large enough for all your baby’s essentials. You’ll want to make sure there’s plenty of room for naptime necessities, diapers and wipes, bottles, blankets, and toys.
Some strollers have lots of storage space, while others don’t have any at all. If you’re planning on using public transportation or walking through crowded areas where space might be limited, consider getting one that has a large storage basket.
5. Versatility
Four-wheel strollers are great for when you’re going through rough terrains, such as bumpy sidewalks or grassy fields. They’re also nice because they have larger wheels that can roll over obstacles easier than their three-wheel counterparts.
However, they take up more room in the trunk of your car because they’re bigger than three-wheelers, so if you don’t plan on doing much walking at all (or if you live in a city where sidewalks are smooth), then this type of stroller may not be for you.
6. Seats
Most strollers come with two options for seating: rear-facing and forward-facing. Rear-facing seats are easier for newborns because they allow them to face away from the world while keeping them close enough so that you can see their faces clearly.
Forward-facing seats allow newborns to sit upright, which may help them feel more secure as they become accustomed to riding in a stroller.
Can You Take a Newborn for a Stroller Walk?
Yes, But there are some precautions you should take. A newborn has many needs, but he can’t communicate those needs yet with words. That’s why it’s so important for parents to learn to read their baby’s cues, and know how to respond appropriately.
One way to do that is by taking your newborn out in the world and seeing what happens when you expose him to new situations and experiences. This helps him develop his senses and helps you learn about what he likes and what makes him uncomfortable or unhappy.
Bottom Line
Whether you are traveling, or merely just going out for a walk in the park, there is the best stroller for newborns depending on your lifestyle and specific needs.
Hi, This is Emma Baster; As a mom, I spend my free time caring for my kids. I’ve read a lot on the Internet to improve my childcare skill and bring the best to my kids. Eruditemommy shares my knowledge and experience through helpful posts. I hope you enjoy them!