As a parent, you know that the safety of your child is your top priority. You want to make sure that they are always safe and comfortable when they’re sleeping. One question parents often ask is whether it is safe for newborns to sleep in strollers.
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, but there are some important factors to consider before making this decision. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of having your baby take a nap in a stroller.
What To Consider Before Letting a Newborn Sleep in a Stroller
Before considering putting your newborn in a stroller, some safety and comfort issues should be taken into account first. To make sure that your baby is safe, it should be able to lay flat so its breathing is not affected or they do not get too uncomfortable from being curled up too much. Also, straps used for securing them should be tight enough so they don't slip out of the stroller while sleeping.
Also, make sure that you place the stroller somewhere away from potential hazards like stairs or busy roads. Never place the stroller near an open window or any source of heat like a heater or oven as these can quickly become dangerous for your baby’s health and safety. Finally, make sure that your newborn does not get too hot while sleeping in the stroller; overheating can be dangerous for babies so dress them appropriately and keep an eye on their temperature throughout nap time.
Many experts recommend against letting babies under three months old sleep in a stroller due to possible airway obstruction risks - especially since newborns tend to move around quite a bit during naps which could cause them to slip down into an uncomfortable position with restricted airflow.
Besides safety and comfort, developmental benefits are also necessary when deciding whether or not to put your newborn in a stroller. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends having babies on their back or side during sleep times which will help develop head and neck muscles correctly. If they spend too much time on their stomachs this can result in bad motor skills and muscle coordination.
Finally, design features such as seat recline/adjustment options, cushioning & canopy coverage levels, as well as the stability of the stroller itself need to be considered before letting your little one sleep in one. How do you know which features to look for? Find out now!
Being aware of all these factors will help parents decide if it is safe for their baby to sleep in a stroller and what kind of unit suits them best.
The Pros of Having Your Baby To Sleep In A Stroller
One of the most obvious benefits of letting your newborn sleep in their stroller is convenience. When you have errands to run, it can be hard enough to keep track of one baby let alone two. If you need to get something done quickly, having the option of putting them down for a nap while you finish up can be incredibly helpful.
Another pro is that it can provide extra support and comfort while they sleep. Newborns often need more support than older babies, so having the sides and back of the stroller as an additional layer between them and any external environment can help keep them secure while they snooze away peacefully.
Finally, if you don’t want to carry around a bulky crib or bassinet with you all day, using a bassinet stroller as an alternative can save space and hassle.
The Cons Of Having Your Baby To Sleep In A Stroller
Unfortunately, there are also some downsides to putting your newborn in their stroller when they sleep. One major concern is that their airways could become blocked by their position in the stroller; this could lead to difficulty breathing or even Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Another potential issue is that if your baby isn’t securely strapped into their seat belt or harness, then they could roll out of the stroller due to sudden movements or jolts caused by uneven terrain or bumps in the pavement.
Additionally, many experts believe that newborns should not be exposed to too much sunlight when sleeping as this can cause skin damage over time; if you plan on taking your baby out during sunny days then make sure that their face remains shaded from direct rays at all times.
Conclusion
It is important to consider all safety, comfort, and developmental factors before deciding if it is safe to let your newborn sleep in a stroller. Researching different types of strollers and ensuring the seat belt/harness is properly secured will ensure your baby has a restful nap when needed. Check out our article 'Discover The 12 Best Bassinet Strollers On The Market' to learn more about bassinet strollers and make an informed decision!
