When Can Baby Sit In Stroller?

Introduction

Once you bring your newborn home, getting some fresh air and going on walks can be a refreshing break from being indoors. It's also a great bonding time with your baby. As your little one grows, you may start looking forward to transitioning them to an upright sitting position in the stroller, so they can start exploring the world with you.

This guide will walk you through when your baby is ready to sit up safely in their stroller with proper head and neck control, the best stroller options for your baby's age, like a newborn stroller or a good travel stroller, key factors to consider when choosing one, and important safety tips to keep in mind.

Which Stroller is Suitable for a Newborn?

For this reason, it's vital to use strollers designed to provide full neck and head support. Strollers with car seat options, along with those featuring a bassinet or a fully reclining seat with a harness, offer excellent solutions for keeping your baby secure and supported. These designs ensure your little one stays in a position that supports their delicate head and neck, keeping them comfortable and safe during walks or outings. As your baby grows and their muscles strengthen, you can gradually transition to more upright stroller positions.

When Can Your Baby Sit in a Stroller?

While babies can use a stroller from birth, it’s important that the stroller is paired with an infant car seat or a model specifically designed for newborns, like a bassinet stroller. However, transitioning to sitting in a traditional stroller requires your baby to have proper head and neck control. Typically, babies begin to gain this ability around 6 months of age, but this can vary. Before placing your baby in a standard stroller seat, they should be able to support their head without help and sit upright without tipping forward.

As you'll be pushing your stroller from behind, it's crucial to ensure that your baby’s head doesn’t tilt too far forward, which could block their airway. Always make sure the seat harness is securely fastened and adjusted to keep your baby safely in place. Also, the seat’s recline should be set to a comfortable angle that supports your baby’s posture.

Our convertible baby stroller is a versatile choice that adapts to your baby’s growing needs. It easily converts into a bassinet, offering a high landscape to protect your baby from car fumes. With a reversible seat, it provides both forward-facing and parent-facing options, allowing for interaction and exploration.

The stroller features multiple reclining positions for sleeping, lying, or sitting, along with an adjustable backrest and footrest. Its three-position canopy shields your baby from the sun and rain, and the compact, easy-fold design makes it perfect for travel. With spacious storage and a smooth ride, this stroller combines convenience and safety for every outing.

Keep in mind that it's not recommended to let infants sleep in their stroller for long periods due to the risk of suffocation in certain positions. Additionally, be sure to review the stroller’s weight and age limits before use. If you have any doubts about your baby’s readiness for sitting in a stroller, consulting with your pediatrician can offer peace of mind.

Essential Tips for Picking the Right Stroller for Your Baby 

Before you rush to buy a stroller, take the time to ensure it’s the best fit for both you and your baby. Consider the key factors below to help guide you toward finding the ideal stroller for your little one.

·  Stroller Age and Weight Limits

When choosing a stroller, it's important to keep in mind the age and weight limitations specified by the manufacturer. These limits are designed to ensure your baby’s safety and comfort as they grow. If your baby is under 6 months old or hasn’t yet developed enough head and neck control, a stroller that converts into a bassinet is a great option. A convertible baby stroller can offer a fully reclined position, providing the support your baby needs during those early months. With a reversible seat, it allows for both forward-facing and parent-facing modes, so you can choose the best view for your baby. The high landscape design also protects your little one from car fumes and other environmental factors, while supporting healthy bonding during walks. Always check the stroller’s age and weight recommendations to ensure it's suitable for your baby’s current stage.

·  Portability and Maneuverability Tips

When taking your baby on various outings, portability and maneuverability should be a top priority. A bulky stroller can be difficult to fold and may not fit easily into tight spaces like restaurants or stores. If you’ll be traveling with your baby in places that require going up and down stairs, a lightweight folding stroller is a great choice. For even more convenience, consider a frame stroller, which works with an infant car seat. This allows for quick transitions between the car and stroller, without the hassle of dealing with a fully-loaded stroller.

For parents with both a newborn and an older child, a double stroller offers the perfect solution, making it easy to take both children out and about. If you need to keep your hands free for other tasks, look for a stroller with a one-hand smart fold design, which many of our strollers, like the 3 in 1 Folding Baby Stroller, feature. This design makes it simple to fold up and store the stroller while managing your baby at the same time.

·  Choosing the Right Wheels and Brakes

When selecting a stroller, the wheels and parking brake system are essential considerations for safety and convenience. While all strollers must pass the same federal safety standards for brakes, the type of brake you prefer can vary based on your lifestyle. For hands-free convenience, a foot pedal brake is ideal, especially when you're holding bags or your baby. Alternatively, a hand-operated parking brake is a great option if you prefer a brake system that's easy to engage with open-toe shoes or sandals. Testing out both types will help you decide which one works best for your daily needs.

Stroller wheels are equally important, and different models are designed for various purposes. If you’ll be mainly navigating smooth, paved surfaces, look for a stroller with well-constructed treaded tires that offer a comfortable ride for your baby while keeping the stroller stable. For those who enjoy outdoor walks or need a stroller for varied terrain, a jogging stroller with larger, rubber wheels is ideal, providing better shock absorption and durability. Additionally, choosing a stroller with lockable front wheels can make navigating tighter spaces, like stores or doctor's offices, much easier and safer by ensuring the stroller stays securely in place when needed.

·  Stroller Options for Your Lifestyle

When choosing a stroller, it's essential to factor in your lifestyle and daily routine. If you lead an active life, rely on public transportation, or frequently travel, your stroller should be an extension of that lifestyle — designed to fit seamlessly into your needs. Look for a model that’s easy to fold and store, especially if you need it to fit into your car’s trunk or navigate public transport. Additionally, consider whether the stroller can handle different terrains, whether you're heading to the park, a busy city street, or running errands. The right stroller should make your life easier, not require you to adapt to its limitations.

Stroller Safety Tips 

Whether you're a first-time parent looking for a stroller or shopping for your second one, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Below are some essential safety tips to help guide your decision and ensure a secure experience for your baby.

·  Understand Stroller Usage and Manual Instructions

Before using your stroller, take the time to fully understand how it operates and thoroughly read the instructions. Pay close attention to the height, age, and weight guidelines in the manual to ensure it’s the right fit for your baby.

·  Securely Buckle Your Baby

Always make sure to securely buckle or strap your baby into the stroller before heading out. The safety harness should be fastened every time, ensuring that your little one is safe and secure throughout the ride. It’s important to check that the harness fits snugly but comfortably, keeping your baby from shifting or slipping out of place. Never leave your baby unattended in the stroller, and avoid using the stroller when the harness is not properly secured. Proper use of the safety harness provides peace of mind, knowing that your baby is safe during outings. 

·  Use the Parking Brake

Always engage the stroller’s parking brake whenever you stop, even if it’s just for a moment. Whether you’re taking a break, chatting with a friend, or bending down to tie your shoelace, using the brake ensures your stroller stays stationary and prevents it from rolling away. This simple action adds an extra layer of safety, especially when you’re distracted or momentarily away from the stroller. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference in keeping your baby secure.

·  Avoid Hanging Items from Stroller Handles

Avoid hanging bags or other items from the stroller handles, as doing so can affect the stroller’s balance and potentially cause it to tip over. Instead, use the stroller's storage basket for your items. However, it's important not to exceed the recommended weight limit of 10 lbs for the basket, as overloading can make the stroller unstable. By keeping your items within the appropriate limits, you’ll help ensure that the stroller remains safe and easy to maneuver.

Final Considerations

Now that you have a better understanding of when your baby can safely sit in a stroller, we hope you feel more confident in choosing the right stroller for both you and your child. Whether you're looking for a newborn stroller or a good travel stroller, always keep in mind that your newborn needs to develop sufficient muscle strength and neck control before transitioning to an upright sitting position. Make sure the stroller you choose meets the appropriate safety requirements for your baby's age, weight, and development. Start exploring stroller options or check out our shopping guide to help you pick the best stroller for your little one’s needs.

Top Travel Strollers for Easy Mobility 

The Cozi 2 Convertible Baby Stroller is the perfect choice for parents seeking versatility and convenience. It easily converts into a bassinet, offering both forward and backward-facing modes to suit your baby’s needs. The high landscape design keeps your baby safe from car fumes, while the adjustable seat reclines for sleeping, sitting, and lying positions. With a simple fold and portable design, it’s perfect for travel. Plus, it includes a spacious storage basket, safety features, and a comfortable ride for your little one.