Common Mistakes Parents Make When Buying a Stroller (And How to Avoid Them)
Buying a stroller is one of the most important purchases parents make before or shortly after the birth of their baby. It is a product you will use almost every day, often for several years. Yet many parents realise only after weeks or months that their stroller does not truly fit their lifestyle.
At Lume Baby, we see the same mistakes repeated again and again. In this in-depth guide, we explain the most common stroller-buying mistakes and how you can avoid them, so you can make a confident and future-proof choice.
Mistake 1: Choosing Style Over Safety
It is completely natural to be drawn to a stroller because of its design. However, a beautiful stroller is not necessarily a safe or practical one.
Safety should always be your first priority. Before considering aesthetics, make sure the stroller:
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Meets European safety standards (EN 1888)
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Has a reliable 5-point harness
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Features a strong and stable frame
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Includes an effective braking system
A stroller that looks good but lacks safety features can quickly become a source of stress rather than comfort.
Mistake 2: Not Testing Weight and Foldability
Many parents underestimate how often they will need to lift and fold their stroller. A model that feels manageable in-store may feel heavy and awkward during daily use.
Before buying, always test:
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How much the stroller weighs
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Whether you can fold it with one hand
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How easy it is to lift into a car trunk
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Whether it stands upright when folded
A stroller that is difficult to handle will quickly become frustrating, especially during the first months of parenthood.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Your Lifestyle
Your daily routine should guide your stroller choice. A stroller that works perfectly for one family may be completely impractical for another.
Ask yourself:
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Do I live in the city or countryside?
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Will I walk daily or mostly drive?
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Do I need to use public transport?
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Will I travel frequently?
Urban parents often benefit from compact and agile strollers, while active families may need stronger suspension and larger wheels.
Mistake 4: Forgetting About Storage Space
Storage is often overlooked until it becomes a problem. Parents quickly realise how many items they carry daily: diaper bags, groceries, toys, blankets, and more.
A good stroller should offer:
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A spacious and accessible storage basket
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Easy access even when the seat is fully reclined
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Strong fabric that can carry weight safely
Adequate storage significantly improves daily convenience.
Mistake 5: Not Planning for Growth
Babies grow faster than most parents expect. Choosing a stroller that only works well for the newborn stage often leads to early replacement.
Look for strollers that:
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Adapt from newborn to toddler
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Offer adjustable seat positions
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Support higher weight limits
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Are suitable for multiple stages
A modular stroller system is often the most cost-effective solution in the long run.
Mistake 6: Focusing Only on Price
While budget is important, choosing the cheapest option can be costly over time. Lower-quality strollers may wear out faster, require repairs, or lack comfort.
Instead of focusing solely on price, consider:
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Durability
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Warranty
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Availability of spare parts
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Resale value
A well-made stroller is an investment in comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
To make the right choice:
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Test multiple strollers in person
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Think long-term, not just newborn needs
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Prioritise safety and comfort
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Choose a stroller that fits your lifestyle
At Lume Baby, we carefully curate strollers that meet high standards for safety, comfort, and everyday usability.
Conclusion
Avoiding common stroller-buying mistakes allows you to enjoy daily walks and outings with confidence. A well-chosen stroller supports both parents and babies throughout the early years.
If you are unsure which stroller is right for you, our team at Lume Baby is always happy to guide you.