How can parents choose the right baby stroller from the many available? Strollers are available to match just about any lifestyle, so think about how you want to use the stroller first and then look for a stroller model that best fits your life and your baby.

Safety Features Are Important

Purchasing the right stroller for your infant or toddler is very important. Check the manufacturer’s weight, height and age recommendations to be sure that the stroller you are considering matches the needs of your infant or toddler. It is unsafe to put an infant in a stroller intended for toddlers or to allow a toddler to ride in a stroller that was meant for younger babies. It is also important to assess the stroller’s overall construction and the materials with which it is made.

The construction should be sturdy and the fabric surfaces must be washable. Metal strollers are less likely to break, but products with plastic parts are lighter weight. You will want to choose the best combination for your circumstances. Many strollers convert between a seated and a reclining position. Check carefully to be sure that the stroller will not tip backwards when the baby is in the reclined position and that the mechanism that allows the conversion locks securely into each position.

A safe stroller has a wide base. This will make it less likely to tip when the child wiggles, leans over, or rolls around. It is also important to consider whether you need a basket or container on the stroller to hold packages, jackets, or the diaper bag. If you choose a stroller with a basket, be sure that the container is low on the back of the stroller or directly over the rear wheels. A container like this will lessen the temptation to hang coats, bags, or other things on the handles of the stroller. Hanging items such as these from the handles can cause the stroller to tip unexpectedly.

The brakes are also important safety features. Be sure that the stroller has brakes that are easy to operate and to set. The brakes should hold the stroller in place even on an incline with a child seated. They should keep the stroller from rolling in all circumstances.

Wheels and Handles

Check the height of the handles to be sure they are comfortable for you. Taller parents should look for strollers with adjustable handle heights so they don’t have to stoop. Choose a stroller that makes corners smoothly, especially if you’ll use it in crowded places. Also try walking with the stroller at a faster pace to be sure your feet don’t hit the wheels.  Foam-covered handles are a nice choice for comfort.

Convenience Features

Do you need a stroller with a basket underneath, or will you carry the diaper bag elsewhere? Some strollers come with parent organization trays, toy bars, snack and drink holders, rain hoods and more. Many of these accessories are available separately, so don’t let the lack of a drink holder sway you away from a stroller you otherwise love. How the stroller folds and how much trunk space it may take are important considerations. Be sure you can fold, unfold and store the stroller easily!

Strollers for More Than One Child

If you have more than one child, strollers with extra capacity can make outings easier. Consider the children’s ages when choosing a stroller for multiples.  Some double strollers have space for a child to stand and ride, but this doesn’t allow for in-stroller naps. Other models have seats for all riders. Choose seats that recline for younger riders. Also consider this versatile option – clip two lightweight strollers together with stroller clips, which also lets you use the strollers separately.