Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your child when you're out on the go. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Look for full-size products that accommodate infants with a reclined seat that is almost flat (newborns still require neck support). Some have the option of a bassinet or travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features since it's where your child will spend a lot of time. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch out and relax. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your child with a way to relax.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models have the tray that is attached to the seat's side, so you won't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow, which are handy for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy to access for children, so they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system, which will help keep your child secure. The ideal is a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to unbuckle for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them a great option for families who take public transport. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges, and any other nooks or crevices that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these incidents are not common, they do happen, and you don't want to give your child an amputation of the fingertip. Pay attention to the stroller's folding capabilities and make sure it fits in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a way to carry your baby. It's also a great option to transport all the items you need for your entire family, including diapers, toys, food and more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will need more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and extra clothes. If you plan to use your stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart may be sufficient.
A lot of the top baby strollers have lots of storage features built-in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It also features a simple close-seam fold that is simple to operate with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. Although they're not the standard features of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding any extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with an universal attachment, to make them compatible with most strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys, and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder can be a useful feature because it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child, and also ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you must determine what features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and carry into your car or do you require one with larger wheels to get over bumpy roads? How long do you plan to use it for, and do you want an easy-to-clean stroller? keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are prone to spills and other dirt. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are a great option for newborns since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some even come with a bassinet option for newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is the color. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller that is neutral, which is more versatile and will look great with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents however, with the many choices available it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is best for you. These suggestions will help you narrow your options so that you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds a click here degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and below.
Safety
You'll want to know that your stroller is safe regardless of whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or going out shopping. It should meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that's low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or take them out. The seat should also be secured with an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this may make the stroller go backwards. It is recommended to keep the stroller clear of parts that could pinch the fingers of a child or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't within reach of a toddler.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the fabric of the stroller, because toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.
If you plan to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider a model that has adaptors included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be safe taken from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety expert can help. On the internet, you can find plenty of information about safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to pick and use the best stroller for you and your family. Be sure to secure your child every time you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are hurt in strollers and carriers.