Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your little one while you're on the go. It's a great method to move around without having to carry too much gear.
Find products that are full-sized and have a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet, travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats recline, which are particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different method of relaxing.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray that can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have the tray that is attached to the seat's side so you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child safe. You should look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants, which makes them a great choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride share. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, as well as any other nooks or crevices which could irritate little fingers. While these accidents are rare however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold and ensure that it will fit into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a way to carry your baby. It's a means to carry everything you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. That's why it's important to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll use your stroller for extended walks as your baby develops into an adult, you'll require 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 bag could be enough.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have many storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's easy to manage using just one hand when carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
There are also storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to provide space for necessities such as snacks, water and diapers. It also has an insulated bottle pocket and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallet within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While these aren't a standard feature of all strollers, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items like wipes or toys without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is useful because it can help you stay hydrated on your walks and keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers available, and you need to determine what features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold down and take into your car or do you require one with more wheels to navigate bumpy sidewalks? How long do you expect to use it, and do you need a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine and is a great option if you're susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with a reclining seat and the footrest to allow your baby to rest on while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller that can grow with your family, consider a travel system. They're a great choice for babies since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another thing to take into consideration. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a neutral-colored stroller, which is more versatile and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents, but with so many options available it can be difficult to decide which stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow your options so that you can find the perfect stroller that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three kids 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or going out shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers construction, material performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this could make the stroller go backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any components that could pinch a child’s fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, make sure the brake lever is out of the reach of children.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
Another thing to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric, as babies and toddlers tend to leave a mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabric that can handle baby food, snot, and dirty prints.
If you plan to use a car seat along with your stroller, you should consider one with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the read more stroller, and then back again.
If you're unsure which features to choose an expert in safety can help. There's also a wealth of information regarding safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time even when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children getting injured in strollers and baby carriers.