Can My Baby Sleep in a Stroller? (What You Should Know)

Can My Baby Sleep in a Stroller? (What You Should Know)

Key Takeaways

  • When done safely, it’s fine for your baby to nap in their stroller for short stints (less than 2 hours)

  • Safe sleep while strolling includes being properly restrained and never being left unattended

  • Babies should not sleep in strollers overnight

There are few things an exhausted parent prizes more than quality baby sleep. Nap times are carefully calculated and sleep environments are meticulously curated. 

But while making sure your baby gets good sleep is important, the simple fact is that babies spend a lot of time sleeping. It’s not always feasible for all of that sleep to happen at home, so what does napping on the go look like? Can your baby sleep in a stroller, or does it always have to be in a bed?

Understanding Safety Basics For Your Sleeping Baby

Experts agree on the ABCs of safe baby sleep—babies should always sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib. 

This is to protect from hazards like suffocation, choking, and SIDS. For small babies, especially, positional asphyxiation can be a risk. This means they’re at risk of suffocating if their airways are compressed because of poor positioning.

Are Stroller Naps Safe?

With the right precautions and some common sense limitations, it’s perfectly safe for a baby to take a nap in their stroller. Here are some guidelines to consider.

Keep Naps Short and Supervised

Babies should not nap more than two hours in a stroller, and they should be supervised the whole time. The proper harness restraint should also be used.

Manufacturer Guidelines and Age Considerations

Consider using a bassinet stroller attachment for babies under 6 months of age, since that allows them to lie flat. Positional asphyxiation and SIDS risks are highest for younger babies. 

Is It Safe for Infants to Sleep in a Stroller Overnight?

Babies should not sleep in a stroller overnight. Some bassinet attachments might be approved for overnight usage (check your manufacturer’s instructions) when disconnected from the stroller base. But the stroller itself is not a substitute for a flat, safe, overnight sleeping environment. 

Not to mention, if the baby is asleep overnight then it’s likely the parents are, too. That means breaking the cardinal rule of stroller naps, which is that they should only be done under supervision. When it comes to overnight sleep, use a pack & play or travel crib that’s approved for type of usage.

Best Practices for Safe Stroller Napping

Outside of overnight usage, it’s perfectly safe to let your baby sleep for short stretches in their stroller with a few precautions taken.

Make Sure Baby is Properly Restrained

While it might seem like it’d be more comfortable to allow them to sleep unharnessed, it’s important to keep your child buckled properly in their stroller. This ensures they’re positioned safely.

Keep the Stroller Under Your Control and Supervision

When your baby is in the stroller, you should always have it under your control and watchful eye. 

Use a Bassinet for Young Babies

For babies under six months of age, use a bassinet attachment to allow them to lie flat. This positioning supports proper airflow and aligns with new born car seat safety principles. Bassinets can be safely used until your baby can push to sitting or roll back and forth.

Alternatives for On-the-Go Sleep

Whether it’s a daytime nap or overnight sleep, here are a couple of alternatives to the stroller for safe spaces for your baby to sleep.

Babywearing Wrap

If you need to be on-the-go during naptime but can’t use your stroller, babywearing is a great alternative. A safe, properly secured wrap or Ergo can allow your baby to nap securely while also leaving you hands-free

Pack & Play or Portable Crib

For overnight sleep or a nap at someone else’s home, use a pack & play or a portable crib. These will allow your baby to sleep flat on their back in a safe environment.

Smart Strolling Starts Here: Safer Naps On-the-Go with Orbit Baby

For babies less than six months old, Orbit Baby’s travel bassinet is a great option for naps on the go. The bassinet keeps babies in a lie-flat position and also allows for easy transfers from home. Older babies and toddlers are safe to sleep for short stretches in Orbit Baby’s stroller. Breathable materials, a secure harness, a full canopy, and a fully reclining seat keep them comfortable while bringing parents peace of mind.

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