When Baby Can Sit in a Stroller? 8 Things to Consider

Are you eager to move your baby from their car seat to the stroller? Maybe you already have a travel system and want to know when your baby can sit in a stroller.

Strollers come in various types with many different features. They are an indispensable part of our arsenal of baby gear. But knowing when you can use them is a question we should explore.

When Can Babies Use a Stroller?

The suitable age for stroller use will vary from child to child. There is, however, one constant. Your baby should be able to hold up and support their own head before you consider putting your stroller into a sitting position.

Some strollers are designed to be used as a bassinet stroller from birth in a fully reclined position. Those that don’t recline fully are generally not suitable for babies below 3 months. This is about the age that your little one no longer needs your help to support their head ⁽¹⁾.

Remember, every baby is different, and some will develop slower or faster than others. Be guided by your own judgment and that of your health care advisors as to whether your baby is ready to sit in a stroller.

Considerations When Buying a Stroller

You’ll likely use a stroller most days from the time your baby is able until they become a toddler. For this reason, choose a stroller that will adapt to your growing child and also fulfill your requirements.

Think about your lifestyle and budget, and choose one that suits these. Strollers come in different sizes, shapes, and fabrics. There are ones that are lightweight, some suitable for all terrains, some for more than one child, and many other options.

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Here are some things you might want to consider before purchasing your stroller 

1. Your Baby’s Age

The only strollers suitable for babies younger than 3 months old are those that fully recline. Conversely, a convertible stroller will see your baby from birth through to their toddler years. These generally enable you to use a car seat on the frame as well.

Do you have more than one child? Consider a double stroller, but think about the fully reclining option within these for your newborn.

2. Your Lifestyle

Do you use a car often, prefer to walk, or use public transport? You may be athletic and spend time on the trails or jogging in the park. These factors can influence the type of stroller you choose.

If you prefer to drive places, a model that will fit in the trunk easily is a must. This could be a lightweight stroller or something a little more sturdy that folds down compactly.

Designed to be Active

For the more active parent, a sturdier stroller that has good suspension is a must to protect your baby from jostling too much. Keep an eye out for strollers that are easy to maneuver.

Jogger-style strollers are ideal for outdoor activities with your baby. However, these should not be used with little ones below about 8 months old.

Public Transport

Public transport brings additional challenges with a stroller. It’s best to look for a stroller that folds compactly. It must also be lightweight enough to carry up and down subway stairs or on and off buses. Some lightweight, foldable strollers have a strap to allow the parent to carry it like a backpack. This is useful when using public transportation.

3. Stroller Weight and Size

Consider where you will be taking and storing your stroller. Look at the dimensions when it’s folded and unfolded. You don’t want to get it home and find it won’t fit through your door or in the backseat or trunk of your car.

You also don’t want to lug a heavy stroller up the stairs to your condo or on and off the subway. Check out how heavy it is, and factor in your loved one’s weight.

4. Handle Length

Handle height is vital and needs to suit your own height. Don’t forget your partner’s height; you will be sharing the load, won’t you?

Hunching over a stroller or reaching up to push it can cause all sorts of back and shoulder issues. For this reason, choose a stroller with an adjustable handle that is high enough so you don’t have to abnormally position your body while pushing.

5. Wheels

Larger strollers or jogging strollers might have bigger wheels in a fixed position. They will also be more durable, especially on all-terrain models.

These are more than likely not necessary for navigating shops at the mall. For this, independent wheels that can be locked in position or released to swivel are a better choice. They will give you greater maneuverability for navigating all those sales racks in the baby store.

6. One or More Strollers?

Some might need more than one stroller for different situations. For example, a lightweight option for travel and a full-sized one for outings around the local neighborhood.

If you only intend to buy one stroller for your baby, choose the one that best meets your needs. Don’t buy one with features you don’t need. Yes, it’s nice to have a stroller to accommodate your baby as they grow, but it needs to suit their size now.

7. Accessories and Features

Some strollers come with added extras, while others are basic. Think about what is a must-have for you and what you can live without.

Features such as all-terrain wheels, one-handle operation, one-handed folding, food trays, cup holders, sun shades, canopies, and rain covers can be helpful. But decide what you need and see whether it comes as standard with the stroller you choose.

8. Budget

A good stroller doesn’t have to cost a fortune — but it can if you aren’t careful. You don’t have to have the “in-fashion” stroller used by all the celebrities just because of the brand name. There will be many comparable alternatives that don’t carry the high price tag.

Buy the best you can afford with all the features you need. Paying that little bit more might mean the stroller will be the only one you need and will take your little one — and possibly additional children — from baby to toddlerhood.