The best stroller is the one that fits your daily life: where you walk, how you travel, how much storage you have, and whether you’ll lift it in and out of a car several times a day. For a newborn, it must either recline fully flat (or nearly so) or accept an infant car seat, because young babies can’t sit up yet.
Key takeaways
- From birth: choose a stroller with a lie-flat/bassinet mode or one that takes your infant car seat.
- Test the fold, weight and trunk fit before buying — you’ll do it daily.
- Wheel size and suspension matter more than extras if you walk on rough paths.
- A second lightweight stroller is handy for travel once your baby sits well.
- Always use the 5-point harness and the brake, and never hang heavy bags on the handle.
Stroller types
| Type | Best for | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| Full-size / modular | Daily use from birth, lots of storage, comfort | Heavier and bulkier |
| Travel system | Car-seat clicks onto the stroller — easy transfers with a newborn | Infant seat is outgrown in about a year |
| Lightweight / umbrella | Travel, public transport, quick errands (usually 6 months+) | Less recline, smaller wheels and basket |
| Jogging | Running and rough terrain | Large footprint; running usually from 6–8 months |
| Double | Twins or close-in-age siblings | Width and weight |
Features worth paying for
- Recline: lie-flat or a bassinet mode for newborns.
- One-hand fold and a weight you can actually lift.
- Reversible seat: facing you for young babies, facing out for curious toddlers.
- Wheels and suspension suited to your streets and parks.
- Large basket — it’s your diaper bag’s home.
- Adjustable handlebar if caregivers differ in height.
- Big canopy with sun protection.
A lightweight stroller for later
Once your baby can sit up steadily (around 6 months), a compact umbrella stroller makes flights, city trips and quick errands far easier. See our travelling with a baby checklist.
Safety checks
- Look for JPMA certification or compliance with current US safety standards.
- Always buckle the 5-point harness, even for short trips.
- Set the brake whenever you stop.
- Don’t hang heavy bags on the handlebar — the stroller can tip.
- Keep fingers clear when folding and unfolding.
- Check for recalls at CPSC.gov, especially second-hand.
- Babies who fall asleep in a stroller should be moved to a flat, safe sleep space when possible.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a travel system?
Not necessarily, but it’s convenient in the first year if you drive a lot. Compare in our travel system guide.
When can my baby use an umbrella stroller?
Usually around 6 months, when they can sit with good head and trunk control — check the manufacturer’s minimum age.
Can I jog with my stroller?
Only with a stroller designed for running, and most experts suggest waiting until 6–8 months. See our jogging stroller guide.
