30 Sep, 2024

5 Best Non-Toxic High-End Stroller | 2024

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While it might be tough to find a stroller that’s completely free of all synthetic materials, there are still plenty of high-quality options that avoid the “worst” toxicants—like PFAS, PFC, BPA, PVC, phthalates, and flame retardants. With over 30 years of experience in fabric production, Yu-City has worked with high-end brands like NUNA, UPPAbaby, Bumbleride, Joolz, and more to create non-toxic, Oeko-Tex certified products, including baby strollers and car seats. So, we know what’s truly non-toxic and what isn’t. We’ve done our research and put together a list of the 10 Best Non-Toxic Strollers for 2024—all selected for their materials, safety features, and overall quality. Let’s dive in!

How do we define a non-toxic stroller?

Before we dive into the brands, let’s quickly define what we mean by a non-toxic stroller. A non-toxic stroller is one that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals linked to serious health issues like cancer, reproductive harm, neurological problems, or developmental delays. We’re talking about substances like organic fluorine (a marker for PFAS), PVC, BPA (Bisphenol A), phthalates, formaldehyde, VOCs, PBDEs, and flame retardants—chemicals you definitely want to avoid.

One of the easiest ways to tell if a stroller is non-toxic is by checking if it’s Oeko-Tex certified. Oeko-Tex is an independent certification that tests for harmful chemicals like flame retardants and other toxins mentioned above. Although not every brand would advertise themselves as Oeko-Tex certified, it’s still a good way to identify a non-toxic stroller in the market. However, keep in mind that Oeko-Tex only applies to the textiles and accessories in or near the fabric, so other parts of the stroller, like the handles or metal components, could still contain harmful chemicals.

2024 best non-toxic strollers at a glance

Nuna: All strollers are non-toxic, Oeko-Tex and GREENGUARD certified.
Bumbleride: All strollers are non-toxic and Oeko-Tex certified.
UPPAbaby: UPPAbaby Vista 2 strollers in NOA fabric are non-toxic.
Chicco: All strollers are non toxic.
Joolz: All strollers are flame retardant and PFAS free.

Best Non-Toxic High-End Stroller

1. Nuna

Nuna, a European baby gear brand, is known for its high-quality design, responsible manufacturing, and commitment to cleaner products. With a variety of strollers to choose from, they’re versatile, functional, and stylish!

Nuna’s strollers are OEKO-TEX certified and meet both US and European safety standards. With over 320 awards under their belt, Nuna has earned high marks from ADAC, known for their incredibly rigorous car seat testing in Europe. They’re also Greenguard Gold certified, meaning they've been tested for thousands of chemicals and meet some of the strictest emission standards. On top of that, Nuna uses natural fabrics and certified organic materials whenever possible, making their strollers not only safe for your baby but also better for the planet!

2. Bumbleride

Bumbleride is an American company dedicated to producing strollers with both quality and sustainability in mind. They prioritize using the best materials and continually seek ways to reduce their environmental footprint. In partnership with Yu-City, Bumbleride has developed non-toxic, sustainable fabrics for their strollers. All of their products are free from harmful chemicals like flame retardants, PVC, phthalates, perfluorinated chemicals, and polyurethane foam. Their fabrics are also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning they’re completely free of toxic substances like BPA, flame retardants, and phthalates.

What sets Bumbleride apart is their use of a PFAS-free durable water repellent, and their black fabrics are dyed through a process that conserves 25 to 40 gallons of water per stroller. Plus, their fabrics are made from 100% recycled water bottles, and even the plastic frame components are sourced from recycled fishing nets recovered from the local oceans near their factory in Taiwan.

3. Chicco

Chicco is a well-known baby gear brand that prioritizes safety and comfort without compromising on health standards. All of Chicco’s strollers are free from harmful chemicals like fire retardants, formaldehyde, PFAS, BPA, and phthalates, making them a safe choice for parents who are mindful about what comes in contact with their little ones. The brand has a long-standing reputation for its commitment to creating affordable yet high-quality products that adhere to strict European and U.S. safety regulations.

Beyond being non-toxic, Chicco strollers are designed with practicality in mind, featuring smooth maneuverability, durable materials, and easy folding mechanisms, which makes them perfect for busy parents on the go. Chicco also emphasizes ergonomic designs that promote proper posture and comfort for both babies and caregivers. From infant travel systems to lightweight umbrella strollers, Chicco offers versatile options that cater to a range of needs, all while ensuring that their products are free from harmful chemicals.

4. UPPAbaby

UPPAbaby avoids using flame retardants, BPA, phthalates, or formaldehyde in their strollers, which is great for parents looking for safer options. However, while the rain shield is phthalate-free, it does contain PVC. If you’re after a fully non-toxic option, the UPPAbaby Vista 2 stroller in NOA fabric is a fantastic choice, as it’s completely PFAS-free. Keep in mind that some UPPAbaby strollers aren’t PFAS-free and use C6 (a short-chain PFAS) for water and stain resistance on their fabrics. UPPAbaby is known for its high-end strollers that come with tons of great features, including full-size models that can expand up to three seats, umbrella strollers, stroller bassinets, and leather handlebars. Plus, their strollers are compatible with popular car seat brands like UPPAbaby, Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, Chicco, and Cybex, offering a lot of flexibility for growing families.

5. Joolz

Joolz is a Dutch brand known for its dedication to sustainability and stylish design. Since its founding in 2004, Joolz has earned a strong reputation for crafting eco-friendly, high-quality strollers. As of 2023, the brand has partnered with Yu-City to produce non-toxic fabrics that are Oeko-Tex certified and free from flame retardants, PFAS, and other harmful substances. Plus, each stroller is made from recycled PET bottles, transforming them into premium-quality fabrics.

Joolz strollers come in a variety of models with unique features to suit your baby’s needs, and all include a foldable rain cover. The brand also offers a 10-year transferable warranty and plants a tree in its Birth Forests across Asia, Africa, Europe, or South America for every stroller sold. As a fun bonus, Joolz packaging is reusable and can be converted into an airplane for your kids to play with!

Chemicals to avoid

1. PFAS

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals commonly used in water-resistant coatings found on fabrics, including strollers. These "forever chemicals" are known for their persistence in the environment and the human body, meaning they don’t easily break down and can accumulate over time. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a variety of health concerns, such as hormonal disruption, developmental delays, and even cancer. When choosing a stroller, we recommend looking for ones labeled as "PFAS-free" or that use alternatives for water and stain resistance like polyurethane-coated polyester fabric (600D) or plant-based oils. Both options are considered non-toxic, with plant-based oils being the least problematic.

2. Flame Retardant Chemicals

Flame retardants are often added to fabrics and foam to slow down the spread of fire, but they come with some serious health risks. Many of these chemicals have been linked to hormone disruption, neurological damage, and even cancer. Over time, flame retardants can off-gas, meaning they release into the air, which is especially concerning for babies who are often close to their strollers. In 2014, the U.S. lifted the requirement for strollers to pass strict flammability tests, and as a result, most manufacturers stopped using flame retardants. However, many fabrics still need a polyurethane coating to prevent fraying, and since polyurethane is highly flammable, flame retardants are often added to reduce fire risk. This is where manufacturers like Yu-City step in by developing innovative, non-toxic fabrics that meet fire safety standards without the need for harmful chemicals.

3. Brominated Flame Retardants

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a type of flame retardant that contain bromine and are commonly used in household products, including strollers. Unfortunately, BFRs have been linked to thyroid dysfunction, developmental delays, and reproductive issues. Over time, these chemicals can leach out of fabrics or foam, contaminating the air and dust that your baby might breathe in or touch. While BFRs are no longer produced in the U.S. and are even banned in some states, they can still make their way into strollers manufactured abroad. To ensure your stroller is free of harmful BFRs like PBDEs, check if it's Oeko-Tex certified, or simply ask the staff to confirm.

4. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC, often referred to as "vinyl," is a common material found in stroller rain covers, canopies, and other parts. It’s a highly toxic plastic that can release harmful chemicals like dioxins and phthalates into the environment and air. Phthalates, in particular, are linked to reproductive issues and developmental problems in children. Opt for strollers that use safer alternatives to PVC, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which is a safer, non-toxic option.

5. BPA (Bisphenol A)

BPA is a chemical found in many plastics and has been linked to endocrine disruption and other developmental issues. While it’s often found in food containers and baby bottles, it can also be present in plastic parts of strollers.

6. Phthalates

Phthalates are used to make plastics more flexible and durable, but they are also linked to a host of health problems, including hormonal imbalances, reproductive issues, and developmental delays. Phthalates can be found in the plastic components of strollers, such as wheels, handles, and other accessories.

7. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are chemicals that can easily become gases and are released from a variety of materials, including foam, adhesives, and paints used in strollers. Long-term exposure to VOCs can cause respiratory issues, headaches, and other health problems. Look for strollers that are labeled low-VOC or Greenguard Gold certified to ensure that they emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air.

What are the regulations for strollers?

In the U.S., there isn't a specific law that mandates all strollers to be "non-toxic." However, there are federal safety regulations that address toxic chemicals in products intended for children, including strollers. Here are some key regulations and guidelines:

1. CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act)

Enforced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the CPSIA limits the amount of certain toxic substances, like lead and phthalates, in children's products, including strollers.
Phthalates, commonly used to soften plastics, are restricted in amounts exceeding 0.1% in products designed for children under 12 years old.

2. California Prop 65

Although it’s a state regulation, California’s Proposition 65 (also known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act) has broader implications. It requires products sold in California, including strollers, to provide warnings if they contain chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

3. Flame Retardants

While there are federal safety standards like FMVSS 302 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) that apply to car seats for flammability, strollers don't have the same strict flame retardant requirements. Some stroller manufacturers still add flame retardants, but increasing consumer demand for non-toxic products has led many brands to eliminate these chemicals from their strollers.

4. ASTM Standards

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) develops voluntary safety standards that many stroller manufacturers follow, like ASTM F833. While these standards focus on physical safety (like preventing strollers from tipping or collapsing), manufacturers increasingly comply with non-toxic guidelines to appeal to health-conscious consumers.

So, while there are no specific regulations requiring strollers to be entirely non-toxic, laws like CPSIA and Prop 65 do regulate the presence of harmful chemicals in children's products. Many brands voluntarily go beyond the legal requirements to market their strollers as non-toxic to meet consumer demand for safer products.

Final thoughts

Finding a truly non-toxic stroller can be a bit tricky, but thankfully, there are brands out there making it easier by creating safer products that reduce health risks for babies. If you’re unsure whether a stroller is truly non-toxic, it’s always a good idea to reach out directly to the brand. They can tell you if their strollers are tested to be free from flame retardants or PFAS. You can also look for certifications like Oeko-Tex or GREENGUARD! And if you’re part of a baby stroller brand looking to use safer, non-toxic fabrics in your products, Yu-City’s experts are always available to help guide you in the right direction!

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