How to Choose a Lightweight Stroller

Lightweight strollers are perfect for parents who rely on public transportation or travel frequently. Many lightweight strollers fold down for compact storage or packing in the car. They can be easier to push, lift and transport than standard strollers or travel systems. Some people choose a lightweight stroller in addition to a heavier stroller, while others use only a lightweight stroller. Either way, you’ll want to make sure the lightweight stroller you choose has all the features, including safety features, you need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pick a lightweight stroller that’s certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. You can find a list of safety standards, and strollers that meet those standards, on the JPMA website.

2. Select a stroller that’s appropriate for your child’s size and weight. Most lightweight strollers won’t work for newborns or babies under three months, since they need to recline and can’t support themselves well. Some strollers hold babies up to 30 pounds, while others can hold children up to 40 or 50 pounds.

3. Look for a stroller frame that works with your baby’s infant car seat if you need a compact, lightweight stroller for a newborn or young baby. Some stroller frames only work with particular brands of car seats, so be sure to choose one that fits the right car seat model.

4. Choose between a convenience stroller or an umbrella stroller for older babies and toddlers. Convenience strollers are lightweight and compact, and often come with many of the same features as larger strollers, while umbrella strollers are usually some of the most basic, and least expensive, strollers available.

5. Make sure the lightweight stroller has a safety harness, locking mechanisms to keep it from accidentally folding up or collapsing, and brakes to keep the wheels from turning when you want the stroller to stay in place.

6. Check the weight of the unloaded stroller. Some umbrella strollers weigh only five pounds, while other lightweight strollers can weigh ten pounds or more.

7. Find out how compact the stroller is when completely folded. You may want to measure the trunk of your car to make sure it will fit easily.

8. Find out how compact the stroller is when completely folded. You may want to measure the trunk of your car to make sure it will fit easily.

9. Check the height of the stroller handles. Some strollers are not comfortable for very tall or petite people. Others come with adjustable handles that you can make just the right height for you.

10. Find a stroller with the features you want, such as a sun canopy, storage basket or cup holders. Some strollers are available in a variety of prints and colors.

11. Compare prices on lightweight strollers. Some brands are less expensive than others, but may or may not have all the features you want.

Tips & Warnings

• When buying a stroller in the store, have your child sit in the stroller if possible. Try pushing the stroller to see how easily it rolls. If you are buying online, or before your baby is born, read customer reviews or get tips from other parents.
• Always use appropriate safety restraints and supervise your child in any stroller.

Resources

• Amazon.com has a buying guide for lightweight strollers.
• The JPMA issues safety standards for carriages and strollers.
• The JPMA has a list of strollers that meet safety standards.