Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller makes it easy to carry your child when you're on the go. It's a great way to move around without having to carry too much gear.
Choose products that are full-sized and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features because it's the place where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The top models have a tray that attaches to the seat's side, so you won't be concerned about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access for children, so they won't spill their drinks when moving.
You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child's position. The ideal is a five-point harness that secures at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to remove for children. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or car seat frames. This makes them a good choice for families that use public transport. However, if you plan to use your stroller only often, you might prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges and other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents aren't common, they do happen, and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure that it will fit into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's also a great option to carry all the things you require for your entire family, such as diapers food, toys, and more. It's crucial to pick a stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and other clothes. If you plan to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
Many of the top baby strollers come with plenty of built-in storage features. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and external slip pockets that keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While they're not the standard features of every stroller, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also search for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items such as toys or wipes without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature because it can aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers available and you have to decide what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car or one with big wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do you need one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine and is a great feature to have if your prone to spills or other dirt. Consider the sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need a stroller to grow with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some bassinets are designed for infants, while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another thing to think about. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with every outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby however, there are so many types of strollers available that it is difficult to select the best one. The tips above will help you narrow your options to choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree from 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
When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of parts that could pinch a child's fingers or pose an choking risk, and always check the brake lever isn't in the reach of a toddler.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that prevents it accidentally folding when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
Another important consideration is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric since toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.
If you intend to use a car seat along with your stroller, you should consider an option with adaptors that are included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and then back again.
A certified safety expert can help you if you are unsure of the best features to choose. On the internet, you'll find a lot of information on check here safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to select and use the correct stroller for you and your family. Remember to buckle up your child every time you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children being injured in strollers and baby carriers.