Key takeaways: Always buckle your baby in with the harness, use the brakes when stopped, and don’t hang heavy bags on handles, which can tip the stroller. Never cover a stroller with a blanket, which traps heat. Keep fingers clear when folding, and check for recalls. Move your baby to a flat, safe sleep space for long sleeps.
Strollers make outings easier. These tips help keep your baby safe.
Harness and Brakes
- Always use the harness, even for short walks.
- Use the brakes whenever you stop.
- Don’t leave your baby unattended in a stroller.
Prevent Tip-Overs
- Don’t hang heavy bags on the handles.
- Use the basket under the seat for storage.
- Follow weight limits.
- Don’t let older children climb on.
Heat Safety
- Never cover a stroller with a blanket or cloth. It can trap heat and reduce airflow.
- Use the canopy and park in shade.
- Watch for overheating.
Folding and Pinch Points
- Keep your baby’s fingers away when folding or adjusting.
- Make sure the stroller is fully locked open before placing your baby inside.
Sleeping in Strollers
Babies often fall asleep on walks. For long sleeps, move your baby to a flat, safe sleep space. Inclined positions and loose bedding can be risky.
Choosing a Stroller
- Meets current CPSC standards.
- Seat reclines fully for young babies, or use a bassinet attachment or car seat adapter approved for your model.
- Check for recalls at CPSC.gov.
Near Water and Hills
- Keep a hand on the stroller near water, roads, and slopes.
- Use a wrist strap if available.
The Bottom Line
Buckle up, use brakes, avoid hanging bags, never cover with a blanket, and move your baby to a safe sleep space for long naps.
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Sources
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Strollers and carriages; recalls. https://www.cpsc.gov
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Stroller safety. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
- Moon RY, Carlin RF, Hand I; Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome; Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Sleep-related infant deaths: updated 2022 recommendations for reducing infant deaths in the sleep environment. Pediatrics. 2022;150(1):e2022057990.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
