Having an Umbrella Stroller for your child is a great way to keep them comfortable and safe when going out. However, the decision of when to use an umbrella stroller can be difficult for many parents. While most umbrella strollers work great for toddlers who can sit up on their own, most aren’t ideal for newborns or infants 6 months or younger who can’t sit unassisted yet.
In this article, we will explore the different factors to consider when determining the best time to introduce your child to an umbrella stroller.
These days there are lots of stroller options on the market and you may be wondering if an umbrella stroller is worth it.
For an on-the-go stroller or additional stroller to keep at grandparents’ house, or while traveling, etc, this is a great choice. Umbrella strollers tend to be lightweight and easily portable.
They can be folded up very small in order to fit into tight spaces which makes them great for parents who love traveling but hate carrying around heavy strollers all day.
Umbrella strollers are the perfect way to take your baby along when you’re on vacation, visiting family or friends, or just heading out for a day of shopping. Since they don’t have features like a car seat attached to them (which would make them heavy) there’s no need to worry about something that could weigh down your arms.
Compared to their larger counterparts (full-size strollers), they also tend to be cheaper. They are readily available in most stores and online, in a variety of colors. Some umbrella strollers have cute designs or even your child’s favorite cartoon characters.
Some umbrella strollers also come with cup holders for drinks and storage compartments for your child’s toys or snacks.
You may even be able to use a hand me down or used strollers in good condition because strollers don’t have an expiration date.
With all these advantages, it’s no wonder many people still use umbrella strollers.
You can safely use an umbrella stroller for your child but the key is knowing at what age it is safe to do so.
You can use an umbrella stroller with your baby once they’ve learned to sit up unassisted. This usually happens around six months old although some babies are able to do so earlier or later than that. The key is that their head should be able to support itself without help.
Once your baby has reached this milestone, you can safely use an umbrella stroller until your child is around 50 pounds.
Most umbrella strollers still have 3 or 5-point harness systems that secure your child’s torso and hips. They also have a canopy that provides shade from the sun and protection from the rain.
Typically you will see a weight limit on umbrella strollers rather than an age limit. This is because children grow at different rates. Things to keep in mind if you are determining whether your child is too old for an umbrella stroller:
The maximum weight recommended for many umbrella strollers can range from 40-55 lbs, depending on the model.
Make sure your child weighs no more than 50-55 pounds else they may be too heavy for the stroller’s frame.
If your child has outgrown their umbrella stroller in terms of height when seated and sitting up their head may hit or brush the top of the seat cover or handlebars.
In addition, if their feet are dragging along the ground when seated in the stroller then it might be too small and again require replacing with something better suited to their needs.
So you’ve decided you do want to use an umbrella stroller, great! Here are some great features to look for to make sure that the stroller you choose is a good fit for you and your child.
Lightweight frame – you want an umbrella stroller that is easy to carry and push.
Quickly foldable – some umbrella strollers offer one-hand fold that makes them compact really fast.
Three or five-point harness for securing your child safely.
Large adjustable canopy – for adjusting in rain or sun. Some umbrella stroller canopies have a peek-a-boo window so you can see your child from above as you push them.
Recline option- not necessary but nice if your child falls asleep while in the stroller.
Comfortable padding for your child to sit on.
Fabrics that allow air circulation if you will be using the stroller in warmer climates.
Storage options for snacks, toys, drinks, cell phones, etc.
Umbrella strollers are a great choice for parents looking for a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver stroller. However, parents should be aware of the safety features and weight limits associated with them.
Before making a purchase, do your research and select an umbrella stroller that meets your family’s needs, both in terms of convenience and safety.
Always make sure you are following the recommended weight limits associated with the umbrella stroller to ensure your child is safe.
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