Cost-Effective Tips for Purchasing the Best Stroller for Grandparents

If the thought of preparing for a new grandchild feels daunting, you’re not alone. This comprehensive guide aims to streamline your decisions regarding essential baby gear for grandparenting.

This discussion focuses primarily on newborns and infants, who require special considerations as they are not yet able to sit up. For information regarding older infants and toddlers, check out our subsequent sections. We recommend reading them all at your convenience. See also: Babyproofing for Grandparents

Within this article, we highlight the crucial items you’ll need to care for your grandchild when they visit your home:

Fundamentals of Grandparent Gear

If you're assuming a more active role in childcare, particularly if you’re located nearby, acquiring your own clothing and a suitable car seat or stroller could be beneficial.

So let’s relax and jump right into it.

Sleeping Arrangements for New Grandbabies

There are various options for where your grandchild can sleep: cribs, bassinets, co-sleepers, and play yards.

Our top recommendation is a play yard. These products meet our requirements: cost-effective, lightweight, and simple to erect and dismantle.

Play yards provide a secure, multifunctional area for babies to play, nap, and sleep during their visits. Often known as playpens in the past, they are commonly referred to today as Pack N Plays, even though that term is specific to a single brand, Graco.

Portable and easily storable, play yards are ideal for grandparents who reside locally or at a distance.

Some models also feature changing stations, offering an extra advantage, so you won’t need to purchase that item separately!

Here are our favorite play yards for grandparents:

Graco Pack N Play Simple Solutions ~ $79 ~ Economy Choice

The Pack N Play stands out as an exceptional option offering great value. It includes an elevated bassinet for your little one to sleep in, minimizing the need to bend down frequently to retrieve your grandbaby. Bonus! It includes an integrated diaper changer. Convenient mesh storage pockets allow you to keep diapers and wipes handy.

When not in use, the Pack N Play folds compactly and comes with a zippered storage bag for easy storage post-visit.

Note of Caution: Complicated Assembly

While we favor the Graco Pack N Play due to its affordability and decent quality, one downside is its non-intuitive assembly process.

To avoid frustration, ensure you assemble it in the correct sequence (rails up first, then lower the hub!). Additionally, disassembly requires reversing the process precisely.

Consequently, it becomes essential to follow the given instructions to the letter, driving us to our next suggestion.

My absolute favorite for grandparents is the 4moms Breeze play yard, though it comes at a higher price point.

Despite being pricier than the Pack N Play, the Breeze is incredibly user-friendly, taking mere seconds to set up and fold down—simply press the hub to open and pull it up to close. Say goodbye to cumbersome assembly!

Watch this demonstration:

They have two versions of the Breeze: The &#;Go and the &#;Plus.

The key distinction: the &#;Plus costs $299 and offers an upper decker bassinet along with a changing station, while the &#;Go retails for $239 and does not have these features. Choosing the &#;Plus is wise if you’re tired of stooping to pick up heavy items, particularly for future grandchildren.

Important Note: Sheets for this play yard tend to be on the expensive side, costing around $40.

Bouncers and Swings

If you reside near your grandchild, having a designated spot to occasionally set down your little joy (because let’s face it, you still need to accomplish basic tasks) is advisable. An efficient bouncer offers a cozy spot for infants, sitting on the floor (and fun fact: it doesn’t actually bounce—surprising, right?).

Caution Regarding Loungers

Products like loungers and semi-reclined sleepers, previously common, have been withdrawn from the market following safety concerns related to SIDS and other serious incidents. Therefore, the suggestions below are strictly for playing (not sleeping).

Here are our preferred baby bouncers and swings for grandparents:

Grandparent-Friendly Bouncers

This charming seat serves both as a rocker and bouncer and is suitable for infants up to 6 months old. The frame requires no tools for setup and can effortlessly fold flat, making it portable for storage and travel. With a subdued design, it fits any decor and features an adjustable, removable toy bar with two soft toys. It also includes sound and vibration to keep your baby entertained while in use. Just remember: this is not for sleeping!

If aesthetics are vital, consider the Bloom Coco &#;Go&#; Organic Lounger. It’s designed for grandparents due to its slim folding capability, allowing for easy storage when not in use and effortless transport between rooms. See also: Best Bouncers and Swings

While swings are not absolutely necessary, they can prove invaluable, as they help soothe fussy children (and who doesn’t appreciate a little peace?).

Swings

This lightweight swing/bouncer folds in half for easy storage and from room to room movements. Its deep, machine-washable seat accommodates the inevitable messes (because we all know blow-outs happen!). You can enjoy it with 6 speeds and a selection of 6 songs or nature sounds. Requires C batteries.

For further options, our full listing of bouncers and swings can be found here.

Diaper Changing Essentials

When your grandchild visits, having a good diaper changing setup is necessary. While changing diapers on your bed is an option, it does involve significant bending and potential messes, especially with newborns.

Buying a stand-alone changing table is generally unnecessary.

Instead, a simple changing pad that fits atop a dresser or table is an ideal solution (see photo below). The Summer Infant Contoured Pad (~ $19) is a popular choice—plus, you’ll want a changing pad cover ($10-$15) to keep it clean!

Alternatively, the Poopoose changing pad ($49) and its accompanying cover ($19) are excellent choices. The Poopoose includes an enhanced security belt, a favorable feature if you fear your adventurous grandchild might roll off while you aren’t directly supervising.

If you prefer a non-cloth changing pad that wipes clean easily (no cover needed), we suggest the Keekaroo Peanut Diaper Changer ($149) for hygienic benefits.

Diaper Disposal Solutions

Should you choose disposable diapers, a functional diaper pail is a necessity (unless you relish the idea of routinely transporting dirty diapers to the outdoor trash can).

If your grandchild utilizes cloth diapers, you will require an appropriate container for dirty cloths. A hanging wetbag, such as the Planet Wise Hanging Wet/Dry Diaper Bag, is recommended.

For disposable diapers, here are our top three choices for diaper pails suitable for grandparents:

Diaper Dekor offers a mini version of their well-liked full-size pail, perfectly tailored for grandparents. This operates easily via a foot pedal, eliminating the need for bending or jamming diapers into a small slot. However, be aware: it necessitates specific refill bags.

The Munchkin Step Diaper Pail is the chief winner in odor control. Keep in mind: it uses special bags and includes a baking soda dispenser needing refills for effective odor management.

This pail, made of steel (blocking odors), does not require unique bags—hooray! It’s highly praised on Amazon and is one of the best diaper pails available, assuming you're comfortable with splurging a little more.

To dive deeper into diapering, including a range of diaper recommendations, check out this link.

Feeding Your Grandbaby

If you plan on feeding the baby—whether formula or pumped breastmilk—you might want to consider stockpiling some feeding essentials to create a smoother experience during visits.

For solid food feeding supplies, review our Grandparents Guide to Toddler Stuff for babies 6 months and older.

Bottle Recommendations

Keeping a set of bottles (matching the ones used at home) may prove beneficial. Babies can be picky about bottles, so ensure you consult parents regarding which type their baby prefers.

Note: if breastfeeding, you may encounter difficulties in sharing feeding duties initially, as many nursing mothers supplement with pumped milk stored in bags or bottles.

Breastfeeding can present challenges, and your daughter or daughter-in-law will appreciate any support you offer, considering the considerable pressure to breastfeed due to recent research pointing to health benefits.

Importantly, educate yourself on the guidelines: babies should consume only breastmilk or formula for the first 6 months; no water and absolutely no juice. Current recommendations stress waiting until the full 6 months before starting solids, differing significantly from practices from previous generations.

Feeding can be a touchy subject across generations, so be prepared for differing opinions!

Now, back to logistics: babies typically enjoy warm milk or formula, so you might wish to warm the bottle by placing it in hot water from the stove or microwave. Those preferring modern options can opt for top-rated warmers, like the Philips Avent Bottle Warmer or the Baby Brezza bottle warmer.

Important Note: Never microwave milk or formula directly, as this can create dangerous hot spots that could harm your baby. Always check the temperature on your wrist to ensure it’s safe before feeding.

Additionally: Sterilizing baby bottles after each use is unnecessary for healthy infants. In fact, excessive sterilization could contribute to current increases in autoimmunity and autism. It’s indispensable for infants to develop their immune systems correctly in those critical early months.

Should you be washing bottles at your home, keeping a simple bottle brush handy is advisable. Furthermore, having a bottle drying rack can be beneficial, especially if you lack a dishwasher. One popular option is the Grass Drying Rack ($14, shown below).

Don’t forget burp cloths (pick your style!), as well as spit-up bibs for your more drooly grandbabies. Traditional cloth diapers can serve this purpose well too (multipurpose!).

Comfortable Bottle Feeding

Bottle feeding can strain your arms, particularly if your grandbaby is a slow eater. It’s ideal to sit with arm supports while feeding to alleviate the strain. Pillows can also be beneficial for comfort.

For versatility, we recommend:

This innovative arm pillow slips onto your arm, supporting the baby’s head and neck while you feed, allowing comfortable positioning also aiding digestion. It's machine washable and compact enough to fit in a bag or drawer when your little one isn’t around.

Bath Time Essentials

Infants under 6 months will need some assistance while bathing as they cannot yet sit up.

In a pinch, you can opt to use a sink, but this requires two people for safety: one to hold the baby and the other to wash.

For grandparents' bathrooms, we recommend:

Baby Bathtubs for Grandparents

This well-rated seat is made of a soft, mildew-resistant mesh that is easy to clean. It fits in either the bathtub (which requires some bending) or a large kitchen sink. What’s more, you can hang it up to store it, unlike many bulkier tubs taking up much needed floor space.

This tub height makes it simpler to bath your baby without overextending yourself over the sink or tub.

Alternatively, the newborn holder can be positioned directly in your sink for added convenience.

This high-quality, adorable flower-shaped tub is specially designed for newborns and prevents them from slipping around during baths. It works best in divided sinks but can also be utilized lying flat, alleviating the need to lean over a tub.

Clothing and Sleepwear Needs

As a regular caregiver, keeping a selection of spare outfits for unavoidable spills, accidents, and general messes is helpful.

Having learned from experience, I can attest that babies frequently require clothing changes during visits to their grandparents. Keeping extra outfits at Grandma’s house is a wise decision to be prepared.

A small stash (2-3 max) of each of the following items is advisable:

Onesies + Pants + Socks

Onesies are available in multiple packs on platforms like Amazon and at local retailers. Brands like Baby Gap provide ones with flexible necklines for easier dressing.

Magnetic Me features innovative baby clothing that secures with magnets, eschewing traditional snaps for ease—great for busy grandparents! Leading brands like Old Navy, Target’s Cat & Jack, Baby Gap, and Carters are ideal for baby apparel.

The Ultimate Footed Onesie

Keep it simple! The one-piece footed onesie is the ultimate baby garment, eliminating the need for additional articles like shirts, pants, socks, and shoes.

This is undoubtedly the best choice during your initial visits with your grandbaby.

Swaddlers and Wearable Sleep Blankets (or Sleep Sacks)

Loose blankets pose safety risks to infants, hence swaddlers (for ages 0-4 months) and wearable blankets (for 4-months-old+) are advisable for keeping babies warm and secure.

Having a sleep sack readily available at your place is wise, especially if parents forget to pack one during visits (which is bound to happen!).

Important Note: Swaddle blankets should be retired once the baby begins rolling over. Stick to designated age limits for safety.

For recommendations on preferred swaddlers and sleep sacks, explore this link. You can access our comprehensive newborn attire guide here.

Stay with us; we're nearing the end!

Car Seats and Strollers for Grandparents

Having raised children, you’ll recognize that much has shifted since then when it comes to baby gear.

In the grand scheme: children commonly utilize some form of car seat until approximately the age of 9. Various types exist, including infant seats, convertible seats, combination seats (also known as harness-to-booster), and boosters—all tailored to specific age or size ranges. All-in-one seats also cater to all phases, varying in efficiency among brands.

Rear-Facing Options

Rear-facing car seats provide significantly more safety than forward-facing ones, and extended rear-facing is now a common practice. Parents are now advised to keep children rear-facing for at least 2 years.

Typically, infants remain in infant seats (or 'bucket seats') until the end of their first year (0-12 months). These seats feature bases that remain securely in the car but can also be installed without one with proper knowledge.

If you'll frequently be caring for this child, it may benefit you to own your own seat. However, if your time with them is sporadic, you might consider utilizing the baby’s regular car seat—or you may want to invest in a second base from the same brand chosen by the parents.

Car Seat Installation Challenges

Be warned—installing car seats can be a hassle for both parents and grandparents alike, often requiring patience and precision.

Studies suggest that older generations can struggle more with this task due to unfamiliarity with modern models, particularly among those retrofitting a centuries-old model.

Intergenerational tension can emerge over this issue, as grandparents may perceive parents as overly cautious, while parents feel that grandparents are uncaring about safety. The reality may lie in the middle.

Don't stress; I'm here to assist! Discover all you need to know about proper car seat installation.

Identifying suitable infant seats for grandparents (based on ease and weight) gravitates toward two specific selections; otherwise, strive for one from our general recommendations.

Moreover, you can buy a car seat and stroller combo, known as a travel system, which ensures compatibility between the two components—eliminating potential mismatches that occur if you select differing brands.

Keep in mind, those suffering from hand issues, such as arthritis, can find unbuckling seats testing, as the buttons require a significant force. If that applies to you, look into a product called UnBuckle Me.

Top Infant Car Seats for Grandparents

Graco Snug Ride – Economy Pick

The Graco SnugRide has dominated the marketplace for years—it’s reliable and user-friendly. While many variations exist, two models particularly suit grandparents.

If you wish to keep costs down, this lightweight seat is a highly-rated choice, featuring minimal frills yet functional for most situations.

The innovative SnugLock technology makes this car seat remarkably easy to install; no one will tell you it’s loose. Hooray!

I personally recommend the Elite version, which allows you to adjust the harness height without needing to re-thread the straps—a much simpler approach.

Nuna Pipa Lite RX – Luxe Option at $399

This seat is remarkably light at 5.3 lbs—most infant seats weigh between 10-12 lbs. A high-end ergonomic choice, it’s easy to install and includes advanced safety features, making it a worthy investment for grandparents who want the best.

All-in-One Seats

If you're inclined to purchase an all-in-one seat that can suit your grandchild from infancy through toddlerhood, know that a high-quality option is available. Some new models perform excellently (though they may be heavier), making them a solid recommendation for grandparents.

For tailored consultation regarding your need for the best strollers for tall toddlers, get in touch with our knowledgeable sales team to pinpoint the ideal selections for you.

The Evenflo Resolve360 is a fantastic all-in-one car seat, allowing for versatile use across all age groups, along with the added convenience of rotating to the side for easier entry and exit. This seemingly small feature considerably eases loading babies or toddlers.

I'm eager to recommend this as the top pick for grandparents!

*Note: Not all-in-one seats accommodate newborns adequately, particularly premature babies. Depending on the situation, you may need to wait until the child is a bit heavier or older before utilizing this option.

Top Choices for Strollers for Grandparents

When considering strollers, two major factors arise: weight and ease of use. Strollers can often be cumbersome and difficult to manage, particularly for smaller individuals, especially if you plan on frequently stowing it in your vehicle.

Most babies aged 0-6 months remain in a car seat or bassinet within the stroller unless you’ve got one that fully reclines, which tend to be less common. As such, you might want to postpone purchasing a stroller until you better understand your needs.

It's vital to acknowledge the trade-offs when considering strollers: heavy-duty all-terrain models equipped with air-filled tires deliver smooth rides over varying terrains, but tend to be quite heavy compared to standard models.

Regular wheel strollers are lighter but can be slightly more challenging to navigate, contingent on your travel conditions. The lightest options are umbrella strollers, incredibly portable and easily stored. Additionally, travel strollers rank among the lightest and most compact available.

Patience is advisable if you don’t want to rush into a stroller investment until you’ve clearly defined your requirements.

And that's a wrap on this basics primer for grandparents! Thank you for your patience! For more general gear information, check out our gear guides page, and don't forget about our twin gear guides.

To all grandparents out there—thank you! Best of luck, and congratulations!

For further insights regarding off road double strollers, please reach out for professional guidance.