How to Safely Use a Stroller: 9 Things Every Parent Should Know

Among the many baby gear essentials, a stroller is one of the most important purchases you’ll make. Whether you’re taking your baby for a morning walk, running errands, or travelling, a stroller offers comfort and convenience.

No matter which stroller you purchase, we still need to focus on safe and mindful use. From fastening the harnesses to inspecting the stroller, there are several important steps every parent should know.

This guide will walk you through 9 stroller safety tips so you can enjoy outings with your little one without worry.

Stroller Safety Matters

It’s not about adding extra stress to parenting; it’s about building small, simple habits that make every outing secure. From buckling up the harness to locking the brakes, these little steps create a big layer of protection for your baby. In this blog, we’ll cover all the little tips that can get overlooked otherwise, and make every outing with your little one a bit safer.

Always Use the 5-Point Harness

The 5-point harness system straps over both shoulders, both hips, and between the legs.It is non-negotiable for stroller safety. Babies are wiggly, and even if you’re only using the stroller for a short trip, they can easily slide or fall out.

Always buckle up your child snugly, making sure the straps are adjusted properly:

• Not too loose that the child can slip through.
  

• Not too tight that it causes discomfort.

Also, as your baby grows, regularly check and readjust the harness for a proper fit.

It is similar to car seat safety; the harness keeps your baby secure in case of sudden stops or uneven paths.

Keep Your Baby Buckled Even When Stationary

It’s tempting to think, “We’re not moving, so I don’t need to buckle my baby.” But even when stationary, babies can wiggle, shift, or lean over the sides.

Always keep your child buckled in, whether you’re sitting at a park bench or waiting at the doctor’s office. It’s a small habit that greatly reduces risks.

Lock the Brakes Every Time You Stop

Even if you’re just stopping for a minute, whether to chat with a friend, tie your shoelace, or grab a coffee, always lock the stroller brakes. It may feel unnecessary in the moment, but if you make it a habit, it’s one thing less to worry about. It’s a quick action that keeps your little one safe in all situations.

Some strollers come with one-touch linked brakes, while others have separate brakes for each wheel. Whichever type you use, make it a habit to apply the brake every time you stop.

Avoid Using Strollers on Stairs or Escalators

Pushing a stroller on stairs or escalators is a huge safety risk. You can lose balance, the stroller can tip, and you risk losing grip altogether.

Instead:

• Use ramps and elevators—they’re designed for strollers and wheelchairs.
  

• If ramps aren’t available, fold the stroller and carry it in one hand while holding your baby in the other (or use a baby carrier).
  

• For shopping malls and metro stations, always seek stroller-friendly pathways.
  

It may take a little longer, but avoiding stairs and escalators is always worth your baby’s safety. Taking all of this into account, we ensured that Loopie Hop was quick and easy to fold.

Never Leave Your Baby Unattended in the Stroller

Even if your baby is fast asleep, never leave them unattended in a stroller—indoors or outdoors. Babies can wake up suddenly, lean forward, or grab onto unsafe objects. An unattended stroller may also be at risk of an unwanted accident.

If you need to step away—even for a second—take your baby with you. It’s inconvenient, yes, but absolutely essential for safety.

Watch Out for Sun, Heat, and Weather Conditions

Always be mindful of the weather conditions while taking the stroller outside. Use the stroller’s built-in canopy, on warmer days, strollers with ventilated openings can make your child feel a lot more comfortable. Similarly, always keep the stroller rain cover handy.

Instead:

• Choose strollers with ventilated canopies or peek-a-boo windows.
  

• Always test the seat fabric with your hand before placing your baby inside.
  

For cold or rainy weather, invest in footmuffs, rain covers, or wind shields designed specifically for strollers.

Don’t Overload the Stroller Handle

Attaching your diaper bag to the stroller handle is both practical and convenient. It keeps all the necessary items handy for quick access. However, it is important to follow the guidelines provided along with the diaper bag for safety.

For instance, individually, the diaper bag may be able to carry a weight of about 10 kgs but when attached to the stroller, the recommended weight limit might be 2 kgs. The extra weight can make the stroller unbalanced, pulling it backwards. Hence, always check the instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer for safe usage

Avoid Overloading the Storage Basket

Similarly, the under-seat basket is every parent’s best friend, but overloading it can make the stroller overly bulky.

• Follow the weight limit in the stroller manual (usually 5 kg).
  

• Spread the load evenly instead of piling everything on one side.
  

• Avoid sharp or bulky items that may poke through.

A balanced stroller is easier to push, safer to handle, and more comfortable for your baby.

Maintain and Inspect Your Stroller Regularly

Like any piece of baby gear, it is important to regularly check your baby stroller both from a cleanliness and safety perspective. You should check your stroller thoroughly once a week and every time before an upcoming long trip.

Here’s a quick checklist for stroller upkeep:

• Test brakes every week to make sure they lock securely.
  

• Inspect wheels for wobbling or wear and tear.
  

• Check that the harness clips are not broken or frayed.
  

• Clean the fabric regularly to prevent mould or bacteria buildup.

A quick 5-minute inspection can save you from unexpected stroller malfunctions.

Safe Stroller Use Means Peace of Mind

A stroller is your child’s safe space while you’re out exploring the world together. And while most strollers today are designed with excellent safety features, the real difference comes from how consistently parents use them. From fastening harnesses properly and locking brakes at every stop to being mindful of weather, terrain, and storage habits, these small actions add up to big protection.

With Loopie Hop, safety and comfort were the top priority for us. From a 5-Point Harness with Magnetic Buckle to Reflector Lines for low light visibility we focused a lot on safety features to make every journey with your little one smooth and comfortable.

Think of stroller safety as second nature, much like buckling a car seat. Once it becomes a habit, you won’t even have to remind yourself, your hands will automatically check the harness, your foot will instinctively press the brake, and your eyes will scan the path ahead.

At the end of the day, safety is not about restricting fun; it’s about giving you peace of mind so you can truly enjoy these everyday adventures.