Buying a Baby Stroller For Newborn

Strollers make strolling with baby a lot easier than toting them around by hand, but they can also be an expensive investment. To get the most bang for your buck, choose one that’s built to last from the start. Look for strollers with plenty of room in the seat and underneath (both are important for storing diaper bags, groceries, and other gear) and sturdy, wide tires that can tackle bumpy terrain. A canopy that offers good sun coverage, especially with adjustable visors, is also a must.

Some full-featured strollers include a bassinet that can be used as a crib for newborns, or have a flat, fully reclined seat that’s safe for infant sleeping (less than 10 degrees). Look for the JPMA label on these products, which indicates they’re certified to meet minimum government safety standards and have been tested by an independent third party. Many of these models can also be converted into double or triple strollers with the purchase of additional seats or accessories, like a ride-on board and bassinet.

Newborns and toddlers alike can grow out of small umbrella strollers quickly. In that case, a stroller designed to accommodate older kids and children can save you money over the long run. You’ll find lots of options that have ample storage for food, toys, clothes, and other gear, plus reclining seats that are easy to adjust as your child grows. A few of the best have car seat adapters, so you can use your existing infant car seat with them.

Most parents go with a traditional, standard-size stroller for their newborn. These are bigger and more spacious than small umbrella strollers, with larger canopies and more maneuverable wheels. They typically weigh 16-37 lbs, and most offer a car seat adapter or bassinet option. Look for the JPMA label, and for models that can be used from birth with a bassinet or “From Birth” kit.

If you want to take longer expeditions that involve walking farther from your home, consider a double stroller. They’re more expensive than single-seaters, but they let you stroll with two kids at once, and they’ll usually be able to handle infant car seats. Some have car seat carriers built right into the frame, while others require an extra carrier that snaps on top of the main unit. A few of our favorite models can even expand to accommodate twins with the purchase of an additional seat and a bassinet or ride-on board.