You’re in the shopping centre, at a shop that specialises in childcare. In front of you are rows and rows of strollers stretching as far as the eye can see. They're different shapes and sizes, with features you’re not sure justify the price point. All you really want to know are two things: what features does a stroller need to be safe, and how can I ensure my child is safe when using it?

Strollers are equipment that most adults will need to purchase when raising a child. These 4-wheeled friends help you move your child around safely while letting them view the outside world as it moves past them. But there are lots of different kinds of strollers with lots of unique features.

We’re going to focus on the essential things you should look out for when buying a stroller and what you can do after purchase to make it as safe as possible for your little one.

What features should I look for when buying a stroller?

Strollers have a lot of features that can make things easier for you or more entertaining for your child. We are going to focus on the top features to ensure your child is safe in the stroller:

Strollers should have easy-to-operate brakes. Make sure that your child can’t reach the brakes from their seat. Brakes should be able to have ‘on’ and ‘off’ positions, rather than requiring you to squeeze a handle to stop. Brakes that lock two or four wheels are more reliable than ones that just lock one wheel.

A stroller with a wide base can prevent tipping compared to a long, thin stroller.

Safe strollers use a five-point harness (straps over both shoulders, hips, and between the legs). This ensures that your child cannot wriggle out of their straps accidentally.

If you’re looking for a twin stroller, the footrest should extend all the way across both sitting areas. A child’s foot could get trapped in the gap between footrests.

If you have an older child, you may be looking for a stroller that fits a larger child to sit in the rear. Be mindful of weight guidelines and how active the other child is. You don’t want the other child to accidentally tip the stroller.

There are many other features that can make a stroller unique (did you know there are ones that double up as car seats?), but as far as safety goes, our guidelines will suit you just fine.

Now, you’ve found a great and safe stroller, but how can we ensure your little one is safe while using it?

How can I ensure my child is safe in a stroller?

Here are the main solutions to keep your child safe in a stroller:

If you string toys across your stroller, make sure they’re fastened tightly. They could fall onto the street, causing great distress to your child. Or, they could fall on your child and leave a bruise!

If you’ve brought a folding stroller or one with many hinges, make sure your child is at a safe distance while unfolding it. Those hinges could trap fingers. Securely lock the stroller before putting your child in it to avoid an accidental collapse.

Don’t hang bags or heavy items from the handles of your stroller. Heavy items can cause the stroller to tip backwards. If your stroller has bags for carrying things, make sure they’re low and near the rear wheels.

Never leave your child unattended in a stroller. Make sure you can see them at all times, even if they’re asleep.

Keep an eye out when using the stroller, just as you would if you were walking normally. Cross streets sensibly, don’t go too fast, and don’t suddenly stop and start!

What are the best tips for buying and using a stroller?

Choosing the perfect pushchair for baby is a cinch with Unii’s tips.