14 Stroller Hacks Every Parent Should Know

Kirsten Metcalf
2026-03-23T14:43:10-04:00

Strollers are a parent’s best friend, keeping your little one safe, comfortable, and entertained while making daily walks, errands, and outings easier to manage. With a few clever stroller hacks, you can make your stroller even more functional, organized, and adventure ready, saving time, avoiding spills, and making life on the go less stressful.

Whether you’re a first time parent or a seasoned pro, these hacks will help you maximize your stroller’s potential while keeping your baby safe and happy.

1. Keep Drinks Spill Free

Avoid messes by attaching a cup holder or bottle clip to your stroller handle. This keeps your drinks and baby bottles upright and within reach. For a budget friendly option, cut a small shoe organizer and secure it to the handlebar with zip ties, each compartment can hold a bottle or small snack.

2. Organize Snacks with Silicone Muffin Liners

Place silicone muffin liners in your stroller’s snack tray to separate fruits, crackers, and treats. They’re easy to clean and prevent crumbs from mixing, keeping snack time neat and manageable while on the go.

3. Secure Your Stroller from Theft

Whether you’re at a park, mall, or airport, securing your stroller is essential. Use a compact bike lock or cable lock around the stroller frame to prevent theft or accidental rolling. Lightweight locks are easy to carry without adding bulk to your stroller.

4. Use a Portable Wipes Dispenser for Quick Clean Ups

Attach a compact wipes holder to your stroller handle for quick access during spills or sticky hands. It’s perfect for snacks, diaper changes on the go, or cleaning the stroller seat without fumbling through a diaper bag.

5. Add a Collapsible Storage Bin to the Under Seat Basket

Keep blankets, toys, and extra clothes organized with a collapsible storage bin under your stroller. It prevents items from sliding around or getting lost while giving you easy access when needed.

6. Keep Baby Cool with a Clip On Fan

Summer walks can get hot fast. A battery powered, clip on fan keeps your little one comfortable and helps them nap during outings. Place it safely on the canopy or handle, out of baby’s reach.

7. Protect from Sun & Rain with Umbrellas or Canopy Hacks

Sometimes a stroller canopy isn’t enough to shield your baby from sun or rain. Use a clip on umbrella or attach a sun shade or rain cover for extra coverage. It’s an easy, affordable way to protect your child in all weather conditions.

8. Maximize Grip with Handlebar Accessories

Install soft handlebar grips to improve your push control and make stroller handling more comfortable. Grips come in different colors to match your style while providing better ergonomics for parents of all heights.

9. Increase Traction on Wheels with Zip Ties

Winter or rainy weather can make stroller wheels slippery. Wrap zip ties around the tires for improved traction on snow, ice, or slick surfaces. Make sure to trim excess to prevent snags.

10. Keep Stroller Clean with a DIY Trash Bag

Attach a small reusable tote or drawstring bag to your stroller handle with a carabiner to collect wrappers, tissues, or other small trash items. It keeps the stroller tidy during outings without having to hunt for a bin.

11. Personalize & Identify Your Stroller

Add a luggage tag, flag, or reflective sticker to make your stroller stand out in crowded parks or airports. It’s a practical way to identify your stroller quickly and add a touch of personality.

12. Extra Security & Convenience: Buggy Boards & Bike Locks

For older toddlers or added convenience:

Buggy Boards

Allow a sibling or toddler to ride along safely.

Bike Locks

Secure your stroller in public spaces to prevent accidental theft.

Night Safety

Reflective tape or stroller lights for evening walks.

13. Tips for DIY Stroller Hacks

Some creative hacks require a little DIY effort but are worth it:

Extendable handlebars with PVC pipes for taller parents.

Cooling pads for hot weather.

Custom organizers to separate toys, bottles, and essentials.

Always ensure any modifications are safe, sturdy, and child friendly.

14. Things to Consider Before Trying Stroller Hacks

Safety first: Never compromise your child’s safety for convenience.

Cost vs. value: Choose hacks that provide the most benefit for your effort.

Ease of implementation: Some hacks are quick, others may take time or DIY skills.

Longevity: Will this hack last and be useful as your child grows?

Fun factor: Include your child when possible for bonding and engagement.

Make Stroller Life Easier, Safer, and More Fun

With these stroller hacks, your walks, errands, and adventures with your child can become more convenient, safe, and enjoyable. From snack organization and cooling solutions to safety enhancements and DIY tricks, there’s a hack for every parent and stroller for close adventures or vacation.

A little preparation and creativity go a long way and when your stroller is set up efficiently, both you and your little one can enjoy every outing stress free.