How to Choose a Stroller: Top Tips for Parents in 2025
The right stroller can be an absolute workhorse for your family. Depending on your family’s lifestyle, you may find yourself reaching for your stroller on a daily basis.
It’s not uncommon for a stroller to be used for several years, and if your family has multiple children then you could be looking at a decade (or more!) of usage from your stroller.
When you really stop to think about it, suddenly choosing the right baby stroller—and what to look for—can be really important. But with so many options and types to consider, how do you pick the best baby stroller for you?
Why Choosing the Right Stroller is Important
Choosing the right stroller is important for a number of reasons. Depending on your lifestyle, you may utilize your stroller daily. It’s also something you’ll likely use for years—many years, if your family has more than one child.
There aren’t many baby items that are used daily for the better part of a decade; most have a much shorter lifespan. Because they’re used so frequently for so long, it’s important to make sure your stroller has the features you want while being adaptable and durable to stand the test of time.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stroller
When considering what to look for in a stroller so you pick the best baby stroller for you, there are several factors to consider.
1. Safety Features
Obviously safety is at the top of the list for any baby gear item. But what should you look for in a stroller? A five point adjustable harness, easily engaged brake, and a stable frame that is sturdy and well-balanced are all key to a safe ride.
2. Age and Size Appropriateness
It’s important to use a stroller appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Some strollers are only for babies who can sit independently and every stroller has a weight limit. Make sure you understand the limitations of your stroller and that it suits your family’s needs.
3. Ease of Use
Does the stroller open and collapse easily? Is the harness easy to buckle and the storage conveniently located? Can you access the brake easily?
4. Lifestyle Needs
Whether you need a travel system that works with your car seat or a jogging stroller for tackling any terrain, how you plan to use your stroller in your daily life will determine which features work best for you.
5. Size and weight
A lightweight stroller might easy to carry and store but offer limited stability and no adaptability. A larger and heavier stroller might be more cumbersome but offer a more robust set of features and a more stable and responsive performance.
You’ll want to weigh (sorry, we couldn’t resist) the pros and cons of each against what works best for your lifestyle to choose the right sized stroller for you.
6. Maneuverability
The stroller you choose should make getting around easier, not add headaches. Front swivel wheels make a stroller more responsive, while a well-rounded suspension system can handle more challenging terrain with ease.
7. Durability
For families of more than one child, the same stroller may be in use for the better part of a decade. To make sure the one you choose can stand the test of time, look for a well-made frame from quality materials that won’t rust or wear easily. Fabrics should be sturdy, fade-resistant, and easy to clean from stains and spills.
Types of Strollers and Their Benefits
When choosing the right stroller for your needs, the first thing to consider is what type of stroller you want. From multipart travel systems to streamlined umbrella strollers, there are numerous options available.
Travel Systems
A travel system consists of at least two items (typically an infant car seat and full size stroller) that connect seamlessly for easy transport of little ones. Some travel systems also include a third item, like a bassinet, that can be detached for use at home. Travel systems are a great option for small babies and families who plan transfer from car to stroller frequently.
Full-Size Strollers
A full-size stroller is your daily driver. These strollers offer features that make rides smooth for both the parent and child. Prices can vary widely, but these are generally more expensive since they offer more options and adaptations.
Umbrella Strollers
Umbrella strollers are a streamlined option. They’re typically lightweight and easy to fold and store. They also typically offer limited storage and fewer bells and whistles than their best full size stroller counterparts, but also come in at a lower price point.
Jogging Strollers
Jogging strollers typically come with a three wheel configuration that’s designed to navigate uneven terrain with ease. Their larger wheels and bulky frame provide a smooth ride. Most jogging strollers aren’t for use until babies can sit independently, unless they are used with a car seat attachment.
Top Features to Look for in a Stroller
-
Safety features. A five point adjustable harness, easily engaged brake, and a stable frame that is sturdy and well-balanced are all key to a safe ride.
-
Maneuverability. Front swivel wheels make a stroller more responsive, while a well-rounded suspension system can handle more challenging terrain with ease.
-
Storage-Friendly. Consider how easily and compactly a stroller folds and if it will fit in the storage space you’ve designated for it.
-
On-Board Storage. A roomy underseat basket for baby necessities and handlebar storage for you are practical additions that are nice to have.
-
Durability. Look for a well-made frame from quality materials that won’t rust or wear easily. Fabrics should be sturdy, fade-resistant, and easy to clean from stains and spills.
-
Adaptability. The ideal stroller can adapt as your child—and family—grows. Look for features that are as appealing for toddlers as babies, as well as the ability to add a second or third seat for siblings.
6 Tips for Safer Strolling
-
Always use the safety harness. Make sure your child is buckled properly, even during naps. If using a travel system, make sure the car seat is clicked fully into position.
-
Never hang anything from the handlebars. Only use the storage cubbies provided on your stroller to avoid balance issues or tipping the stroller over.
-
Engage the brake when stopped. Even on flat ground, a stroller can roll away without the brake engaged.
-
Never leave your child unattended. Especially when parked on an incline or near heavy traffic.
-
Use a stroller appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Some strollers are only for babies who can sit independently and every stroller has a weight limit.
-
Check your stroller regularly for issues. Make sure the wheels and suspension are in good order and check for any wear on fabrics on straps.
How Can I Choose the Best Stroller for My Family?
Because of the possibility of heavy, frequent use of your stroller for years, you may want to consider investing in a sturdy, robust, reliable option over something less expensive.
You can weigh what your daily lifestyle needs are against the types of strollers and features available to make sure you choose the best stroller for you. Every family’s needs are unique, but the right stroller will fit seamlessly into your daily life.
FAQ
How to determine what stroller to get?
The best stroller for your family works with your current lifestyle while also offering adaptability and durability for years to come.
Strollers have a relatively long shelf life when it comes to baby gear—families with multiple children may use the same stroller for a decade or more. Investing in a stroller that is well-rounded and offers multiple features can be a wise choice.
You can also learn from our guide whether 3 or 4 wheels are better for a stroller
When deciding if a three wheel or four wheel stroller is right for you, consider your lifestyle and the daily needs of your family.
For an on-the-go family who prioritizes maneuverability over any terrain, a three-wheel stroller might be the right choice. If versatility and a variety of style options matter more, then a four-wheel stroller is likely to be a better fit.
Choosing The Right Stroller: Wrapping Up
When it comes to choosing the best baby stroller for your family, it can be smart to consider a stroller’s staying power, first and foremost. You’ll want to invest in a stroller that is well-constructed and durable so that it can serve your family for years to come.
Choosing something that’s easily maneuvered over the terrain of your daily life is a smart bet. If you expect to add more children to your family down the road, a stroller that can be adapted to add a second or third seat could be good to consider.
Today’s stroller market offers options and features that cater to a variety of needs, so finding one that suits your family should be a walk (or stroll?) in the park.
