Basic guide to choosing a stroller

Choosing a Stroller

Strollers are one of the essential items to purchase for your baby. Knowing which stroller is suitable for you and your family can be challenging with so many different models on the market. 

One of the most challenging decisions you’ll likely make when building your registry is what stroller to purchase for your new baby. Your stroller will be one of the most frequently used pieces of baby gear, whether you’re strolling around the block or packing up for your next vacation. 

Features To Look For When You Choose A Stroller

It can be hard to anticipate what kind of stroller you will need and what features will be important versus what you can skip considering the wide variety of different types of stroller options available in the market today.

But don’t fret; this article will walk you through some of the features that every stroller should have and help you figure out what type of stroller would work best for your child’s age group.

Seat structure/functionality

A seat that can fully recline to a flat surface, giving your child comfort and a backrest. A reclining seat that comes with a newborn support accessory allows it to recline almost fully. Safety regulations are always the priority.

Make sure the stroller can clip an infant car seat into the stroller (a travel system). That way, it is easier for parents to transfer their strollers to their car seats, reducing discomfort for their babies.

One-handed fold

It is a tremendous help to open and close a stroller with one hand, especially if you are balancing a baby in your other arm. And even better? In this case, the stroller will also be self-standing, meaning it will stand up entirely on its own when folded. This feature is helpful for parents who always have their hands full. So having an easy fold feature is ideal. 

Washable fabric

You know how messy babies can be if you have ever been around one. The seat cover on your stroller seat will take a beating from saliva, drool, drippy bottles, and snack accidents, so it is excellent if you can remove it and wash it. Having washable fabric is really great. You can make use of the stroller for an extended period. You can even pass it on to friends and family to use.

Adjustable handlebar

The adjustable handlebar, also called a telescopic handlebar, makes pushing the stroller comfortable for everyone, regardless of height. There is no reason not to use this option if you and the caregivers are on entirely different latitudes.

Sun canopy

With a larger canopy, your child will have more shade and privacy. Several canopy models, especially the larger ones, have peek-a-boo windows so that you can keep an eye on your child without stopping. Some also come with a magnet closure, so it is nice and quiet.

Stroller basket

It would be nice isn’t it to have storage space to store some of the baby necessities? Most strollers have a storage space found under the seat that can hold ten pounds. For perspective, a gallon of milk weighs about 3.9kg (8.6 pounds). If you plan to use your stroller for grocery shopping (if you live in a city, for example), look for a stroller with an XL basket. In terms of accessibility, you will need a basket with a wide opening; otherwise, it will be hard to get things in and out.

Stroller Accessories

With the right stroller accessories, your baby can be more comfortable while you’re out and about. Among the options available:

  • Protective cover for rain
  • In colder climates, bunting is ideal
  • Various attachments for toys
  • Cup and snack holders
  • Stroller boards

Types Of Strollers To Choose From

Believe it or not, there is a stroller type for nearly every situation—from jogging to travelling to taking a walk around the block. There’s even a stroller for people who like to look chic and classy. To help you identify which one is best for you, the list below is a breakdown of the different types of strollers available in the market today.

All-purpose stroller

All-purpose strollers also called everyday strollers or full-size strollers, are perfect for everything from strolling around the neighbourhood to travelling to any location. A solid stroller usually comes with features like a storage basket, seat recline, cup holders, and a smooth ride. Generally speaking (but not necessarily), all-purpose strollers tend to be on the heavier, bulkier side and can be challenging to fold. 

This type of stroller is probably the most common among the rest, as it almost covers all the essentials of a stroller.

Lightweight stroller

As the name implies, lightweight strollers weigh a lot less than traditional strollers. Others call them travel strollers, compact strollers, and umbrella strollers. The strollers are convenient for travellers or parents who need a stroller that is easy to transport when disassembled (think of taking the stroller up and down the steps, putting it in and out of car trunks, taking the stroller on public transportation, etc.).

Most lightweight strollers have a slimmer profile to fit through narrow doorways and on crowded sidewalks more easily. Travellers will also appreciate their convenience – some get folded up small enough to fit in overhead plane bins. There is a wide range of prices for these strollers. There is no doubt that these travel strollers are a favourite.

Jogging stroller

Running fans take notice: these strollers can handle rougher terrain. They also have suspension systems that make the ride smoother.

A jogging stroller allows you to bring your baby along for the ride if you enjoy running. They are not just for working out, though; jogging strollers are also great for traversing bumpy, uneven terrain. Super-sturdy with souped-up suspension systems, jogging strollers are made to absorb the bouncing that comes along with more intense speeds or rough surfaces. 

Additionally, they have three oversized wheels with a front wheel that either swivels or can be fixed in place depending on whether you need it to turn or be more stable at fast speeds quickly. Some come with features like hand brakes to stop or slow the stroller on downhill or extra-large canopies to protect your little one from the sun if you are running outside. 

Most jogging strollers are bulky and heavy, and although some can be from birth if they can accommodate an infant car seat, it is not ideal for running with your little one in a jogging stroller before they are about eight months old. 

Double stroller

A double stroller can be helpful for twins or kids born close together. It is possible to choose between two designs: side-by-side doubles (two seats next to each other) or in-line, also called tandem or single-file (one seat in front of the other). 

Additionally, some strollers have convertible seats that allow you to add a second seat for a second child. You’ll want to find a double stroller that will allow you to use two infant car seats at the same time if you’re having twins and plan to use a double stroller from birth. These are some of the best double strollers you can buy.

Travel systems

Travel systems include strollers and car seats that attach to the strollers. Travel systems have two main benefits: you can use them right from birth, and you don’t have to wake your baby to move them from the car to the stroller. 

Also, you can save money since you purchase both items together. (Keep in mind that if you have fallen in love with a separate car seat and stroller, you can often make your travel system–even if they’re different brands. Use this Infant Car Seat and Stroller Compatibility guide to check if they’re a good fit and to learn what adapters you’ll need to purchase.) You can learn more about the best travel systems and how to choose one in these guides.

Stroller frames

You can attach an infant car seat to a stroller skeleton (think of the handle, basket, and wheels).

Convertible strollers

Strollers that convert from single to double strollers are convertible strollers. A convertible is a good choice if you plan to have two children that are relatively close in age. As with double strollers, convertibles come in either an in-line or side-by-side configuration.

Which stroller is best? Mother & Baby SG Recommends!

Strollers are a convenient and comfortable place to put your baby and your belongings when you’re out and about. When you have a new baby, bringing a stroller makes life easier. As one of the most expensive items on a registry, they help you leave the house with your little one, so you’ll get your money’s worth.

If your stroller accommodates an infant car seat or a bassinet, or if the seat reclines are completely flat, you can use it from birth. If not, you can typically start using a stroller when your baby is around six months old and sits up and has neck control.

Though it varies by model, most strollers can hold kids up until they weigh about 50 pounds. So although a stroller is a significant investment, it’s one you’ll get a ton of use out of.

In order for you to have an easier time thinking of what stroller to get, we have listed down some of the top brands for strollers.

Britax

Britax‘s strollers are a perfect combination of safety, comfort, style, and compactness, tailored to meet the unique needs of urban parenting in our vibrant city-state. Britax is a trusted brand with over 50 years of experience in creating exceptional baby products that keep your little ones secure while providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both of you. This popular stroller brand has already won the hearts of parents in the US, UK, and Australia.

Safety is paramount for Singapore moms, and Britax strollers are built with advanced safety features such as the Click & Go System, ensuring a snug fit between the stroller and infant car seat. Your child’s comfort is also taken into account with features like adjustable handlebars, easy-to-manoeuvre wheels, and well-padded seating.

In addition to safety and comfort, Britax strollers boast modern, sleek designs that will turn heads as you stroll around town. Plus, their compact folding mechanisms make storage a breeze, even in tight spaces. With a wide range of designs and options, Britax ensures that you’ll find the perfect stroller to complement your lifestyle without compromising on safety or comfort for your precious little one.

Bugaboo 

Singapore’s parents love the Bugaboo brand. The company offers a range of models and styles that are suitable for every need. With a stylish design that matches your personal style, they are the perfect city stroller. 

Bugaboo strollers are long-lasting and durable. The product has replaceable parts and washable, puncture-proof fabrics. 

You don’t need to sweat the details since they do it. Each product is developed, tested, and refined for years beyond industry standards by its designers and engineers. So you can feel confident that every joint, stitch, and click can make your ride as comfortable as possible, wherever the destination.

Quinny

With their city vibe strollers, Quinny takes pride in their designs. There are different models to choose from to let you live, work, and play. These strollers are flexible and comfortable for your child. Quinny strollers are the perfect solution for the next few years!

Phil&Teds 

One of the world’s leading innovators, designers, and marketers of children’s products, Phil&Teds is an award-winning international company. They have a wide range of baby products, and that includes strollers. 

They have several patents on their products. That consists of the only portable cot that’s portable – because it’s lighter than a baby, a brake that stops the buggy automatically, and the in-line cart that’s been a life-saving freedom giver for millions of parents.

Doona

The Doona is one of a kind. Part stroller, part car seat, and part travel system, this hybrid innovation transforms from an infant car seat into a stroller with the click of a button. When it’s time to get in the car, the stroller legs and wheels pull up and fold under the car seat. 

It’s ideal for a family who frequently travels as it is for a suburban family who’s in and out of the car regularly or a city dweller who’s using a rideshare or a rental car. It’s also great if you’re a minimalist who’s trying to cut down on the amount of baby gear you need, especially during the first year.

Stokke

Stokke strollers have a very stylish design. Strollers are available for newborns (with optional carrycots) to 15kg toddlers and are compatible with car seats. They offer forward and rear-facing strollers, as well as elevating strollers. While not the easiest to fold and store, these strollers are easy to manoeuvre and relatively easy to fold.

Baby Jogger

Parenting active children have never been easier with Baby Jogger products. Since developing the first jogging stroller in 1984, they have expanded their product line to include high-quality, durable, versatile, and versatile strollers. 

No matter what type of stroller you need, they have it – lightweight travel strollers or quick-folding strollers for daily use. Some famous stroller lines include city selectTM, city miniTM, city miniTM GT, city tourTM, and summitTM X3.

Joie

Joie has a lot of stroller models. From deluxe strollers to practical and petite packages, they offer a wide range of solutions that combine style, functionality and durability. Known for their innovative design and unique parent-friendly features, they offer the best of both worlds. They use ​the highest quality plastics, tough and durable strength fabrics and undiluted, uncompromised materials.

GB Pockit+ Stroller

GB Pockit+ Stroller is the world’s most compact and light stroller. It weighs only 6kg and measures 32 x 20 x 38 cm when folded! With one hand, you can push on city streets while holding your latte in the other. You can fold this pram in two easy steps, take it with you on your next family vacation, and pop it into your handbag when you are not using it anymore. It also stands up on its own when folded, making it easy to prop up in a café. We love this Singapore-friendly stroller!

Mclaren

There is nothing traditional about McLaren’s products. They are timeless. ‘Artful’ isn’t accurate enough to describe their careful blend of style and functionality. There are countless ‘firsts’ they have created over the decades, but the word ‘innovation’ is barely adequate to describe them.

Mclaren has compact flat-fold strollers, compact umbrella strollers and strollers for two. Under each type, there are different types of models that you can choose to suit your style.

Colugo

Colugo’s collection of strollers is ideal for travelling. This travel stroller is a significant investment if you plan to get out and about with your new family. This compact stroller from Colugo packs a big punch in a small package.

The size is the biggest plus of the Colugo Compact. It weighs around 16 pounds, it is easy to lift and carry, and it has a design that can fit into the overhead compartment of an aeroplane. 

The stroller boasts a quick, one-handed fold (a must when you’re travelling with your baby in tow) and has a built-in carry strap for when you need to sling it over your shoulder and be on your way. 

It is also easy to push and steer, which isn’t always the case with travel strollers. Other things to love include a fully reclinable seat (great for on-the-go naps) and seat fabric that’s wipeable and machine washable.

Baby Zen

There will be times when you don’t want (or need) a full-size stroller, like travelling, taking a day trip, or knowing you’ll be somewhere with crowds and limited spaces. You’ll want a lightweight stroller at those times—and the YOYO2 is one of the best.

This popular lightweight option from Baby Zen weighs just under 14 pounds and folds up quickly and easily with one hand. It has a design to fit in the overhead baggage compartment and features a built-in strap so you can sling it right over your shoulder and carry it when it’s not in use. 

It also works from the newborn stage well into toddlerhood, as it’s compatible with several different car seat brands and a pram (Newborn Pack sold separately). And you can swap out the seat fabric for a different colour whenever you’d like, an entertaining feature.

Where to buy The Best Strollers In Singapore?

Back in the day, you could only buy baby strollers in Singapore from stores, but now you can purchase them online for the ultimate convenience and even enjoy discounted prices! 

But there are more options! You can pay a visit to one of these stores and establishments where you can choose the best deals and needs for a stroller.

Baby Kingdom

At Shun Li Industrial Park, the Baby Kingdom is a one-stop shop for all things baby with a 4000 square meter showroom. The shop carries prams and strollers as well as other baby products. Those looking for budget-friendly tandem baby strollers in Singapore may wish to check out their Joovy tandem strollers.

Location: 83 Kaki Bukit Ave 1, Shun Li Industrial Park, Singapore 417954

Baby Hyperstore

You can also find strollers at Singapore’s Baby Hyperstore, a three-story showroom in Shun Li Industrial Park. 

Location: 69 Kaki Bukit Avenue 1, Shun Li Industrial Park Singapore 417947

Kiddy Palace

In addition to selling children’s clothes, toys, and all manner of baby-related products, you can also buy strollers from Kiddy Palace. You can see a variety of stroller brands at Kiddy Palace. 

Locations: Multiple locations around Singapore

Motherswork

Motherswork started in Singapore in 1998 and now has four locations locally. They carry different brands, so more options for you.

Locations: Great World City, 163 Tanglin Road, 112 Katong, Compass One

Mothercare

With more than ten stores around Singapore, Mothercare is a convenient place to shop for strollers in Singapore.

Locations: HarbourFront Centre, Paragon, Forum The Shopping Mall, KK Hospital, Causeway Point, Plaza Singapura, Marina Square, West Coast Plaza, Tampines Mall, Parkway Parade, and VivoCity.

First Few Years

This shop at Paragon offers a variety of strollers for the first few years of your child’s life. If you want to buy strollers in Singapore, some of the brands you can find at this Orchard Road store. 

Location: 290 Orchard Road, #05-40/41, Singapore 238859

Toys “R” Us

If you wonder where to buy strollers In Singapore, Toys “R” Us may not immediately come to mind. However, besides selling toys, Toys “R” Us also sells strollers in Singapore. 

Locations: Multiple locations around Singapore

Bove

A brand of Spring Maternity, Bove at Suntec City Mall, Singapore, carries strollers of various kinds.

Location: 3 Temasek Boulevard #02-728/729/730 Suntec City Mall (Tower 4)

Baby Gogo

Babygogo.com.sg is an online store that sells various baby-related products, including strollers for different ages. This store stocks less commonly found brands. You can also visit their showroom located in Yishun.

Location: #01-81 Junction Nine, 18 Yishun Avenue 9, 768897

One last tip

Given the facts above about the considerations to take note of and the different types of strollers, you should have a clear idea of what stroller you need to buy. Just to add, you should also keep in mind the following:

  • Price: Stroller prices vary widely. Even though top-dollar models often include plenty of convenience features – adjustable handlebars, rain shields, large undercarriages, multiple seats – they aren’t always necessary.
  • Style: It is all about style in this case. Do you expect heavy use daily? Are you only planning on using the stroller occasionally? Do you have a car you can use to transport your stroller? Are you going to lug it around the city, up subway stairs, and in and out of apartments? You can answer these types of questions to decide whether you should buy a basic, lightweight model or a heavier model with all the bells and whistles.
  • Family size: Lastly, consider the size of the family. Making a more significant investment in a model that can accommodate more children makes sense if you intend to have more than one child. You will have to stomach the higher price tag now, but ultimately, it will save you from buying more than one stroller.

Choosing the right stroller really depends on your needs and your baby’s needs. The important thing to keep in mind above all else is comfort and reliability. So long as the stroller chosen works best for day to day activities, then it will be a sure bet! 

Wei Chun profile photo

Writer

I am an INTP-A Logician personality and a proud Melakan who has had the privilege of living in Singapore and Malaysia. I have been an avid fan of Manchester United and I'm now a parent to a daughter with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I love watching Asian movies and dramas from the sci-fi, time travel, comedy, detective and mystery genres. As a self-proclaimed tech geek with an equal passion for SEO, I help SMBs in IT support and SEO matters.

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