What is the healthiest stroller for my baby?

New stroller models come out all the time, so first and foremost it's important to check the safety ratings. Beyond that, strollers are, unfortunately, one area in which healthy options (in terms of materials) are hard to find. With most strollers containing plastics, fabrics treated with chemical finishes and foam cushions sprayed with fire retardants, it may seem that there are no healthy options out there.

Here are our suggestions on finding the healthiest stroller for your baby:

·  Purchase your stroller months in advance, remove it from the box and assemble it. Wash all fabrics that say they can be washed, wipe down all surfaces and leave the stroller on a covered porch or in a garage to off gas.

·  Look for European strollers, due to their tighter restrictions on chemicals in products.

·  Use an umbrella that attaches to the stroller instead of the vinyl rain covers that come with many strollers.

·  Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you are using the stroller properly.

And if you want to help the environment too:

·  Look for an aluminum frame that will last longer and can be used for the next child.

·  Buy one stroller that will take you all the way from birth to 4 or 5 years old.