Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your little one when you're on the move. It's a great method to get around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are large and include a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. It is important to choose a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats also have footrests that can be stowed to provide your child with a option to relax.
Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children that can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models come with a tray that is attached to the back of your seat, so you aren't worried whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow which are useful for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child's safety. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat making them a great choice for families who use public transportation or ride shares. If you only plan to use the stroller on occasion it is possible to choose an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and features.
When shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, and any other nooks and crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a method to transport your child. It's also a great option to carry all the things you need for your entire family, such as diapers food, toys, and more. It's crucial to pick the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for long walks as your child grows into a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, extra clothing and water bottles. If you're planning to use your baby stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket may be sufficient.
Many of the best baby strollers have many storage features built-in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It features a quick and almost seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
There are storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that is perfect for your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallet in reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller, but they can be an excellent method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific models of strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is an important feature as it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child and ensures that your hands are free.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available, and it's important to determine what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller to fold and fit into your car or with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do you want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers which can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models include an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can relax while you are out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller that will grow with your family, consider a travel system. They're a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a baby stroller however, there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it can be a challenge to select the best one. The tips above will help you narrow down your options so that you can find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. pushchair She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and below.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or going out shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards that cover the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that is low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you insert your child in or out. The seat should also be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is recommended to keep the stroller clear of parts that could pinch fingers of children or create an choking risk and ensure that the brake lever is not in the reach of a toddler.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when in use. It should be 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 so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat with your stroller, think about getting an option with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will enable your child to be securely transferred from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you're unsure of the best features to choose. Online, you can get a wealth of information on safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to pick and use the right stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Doctors in emergency rooms report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children being injured in strollers and baby carriers.