Baby Strollers: What to Know Before You Buy
When you're getting ready for a new baby, a baby stroller, a wheeled vehicle designed to safely transport infants and toddlers during outings. Also known as a pram, it's one of the first big purchases new parents make—not because it's trendy, but because it's necessary. But not all strollers are made the same. A stroller that works for a six-month-old might be dangerous for a newborn. And one that’s perfect for city walks might fall apart on gravel paths. The key is matching the stroller to your baby’s needs, your lifestyle, and your safety standards.
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is waiting too long to buy a stroller. If your baby is already here and you’re still figuring out what to use, you’re already behind. Most experts agree: if you’re bringing a newborn home from the hospital, your stroller should let them lie flat. That’s not a suggestion—it’s a safety rule. Newborns can’t support their heads, and their spines need full support. A stroller that reclines too little or has a bucket-style seat isn’t safe yet. Look for models labeled newborn stroller, a stroller designed with a fully flat or near-flat recline for infants under three months. Some strollers come with bassinet attachments or are part of a travel system that works with your car seat. Others are built from the ground up to carry tiny babies. Either way, check the recline angle. If it’s not close to 180 degrees, skip it.
Then there’s the question of used strollers. Buying second-hand saves money and reduces waste, but it’s not risk-free. A used baby stroller, a previously owned stroller that may still be functional but requires inspection for safety. can have worn straps, cracked frames, or outdated safety standards. Always check for recalls. Look for the model number and search the CPSC database. Test the brakes. Make sure the harness clicks securely. If the fabric is frayed or the wheels wobble, walk away. Even if it looks fine, older models might not meet current safety rules. Sometimes, paying a little more for a new one is cheaper in the long run—because safety isn’t something you can afford to guess on.
And what about when your baby grows? Most kids transition out of strollers between two and three years old, but many still use one past age three—especially on long days, at the mall, or during travel. It’s not about laziness. It’s about energy levels, tired feet, and keeping up with the pace of life. The right stroller doesn’t just carry your baby—it grows with them. Some models convert from bassinet to toddler seat. Others have adjustable footrests and five-point harnesses that last until your child hits 50 pounds. You don’t need to buy a new one every year. You just need to know what to look for.
Strollers don’t expire like baby formula or car seats, but they do wear out. Rubber parts crack. Metal joints loosen. Fabric fades and tears. A stroller that’s been in storage for five years might look fine, but if it’s been exposed to sun, rain, or extreme heat, it’s not safe. Always check for recalls—even if it’s brand new to you. And if you’re ever unsure, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Whether you’re shopping for your first baby, thinking about switching stroller types, or wondering if that old one in the garage is still okay, you’re not alone. Below, you’ll find real advice from parents who’ve been there: when to buy, what to avoid, which celebrities actually use what, and how to tell if a stroller is truly newborn-safe. No fluff. No marketing. Just what works.