Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your little one when you're out on the move. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you want to go without being burdened by too much equipment.
Look for full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most essential features as it's the place where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is especially beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
Most strollers offer an infant tray, which can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the side of the seat so you don't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be simple for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. It is important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants, which makes them a great choice for families who use public transportation or ride share. If you intend to use the stroller on occasion, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great way to transport all the things you need for your entire family, such as diapers food, toys, and much more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if be taking your stroller on long walks as your child becomes an adult, you'll require more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, and extra water bottles and clothes. If you plan to use your stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.
Many of the best baby strollers include plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance features an enormous storage basket as well as a sunshade which can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It has a fast and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
You can also find storage options in the form pockets, trays, and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. While these aren't an essential feature of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding any weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to fit specific strollers, while others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
Other storage options to look out for are pockets and side nettings 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 is a useful feature because it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child and helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers available and you must decide what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller to fold and fit into your car, or one with large wheels that can aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be website using it? Do you need one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers for fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also come with an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can rest while you are out and out and.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for infants as they typically come with an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some permit the addition of a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a stroller with neutral colors which is more flexible and can be paired with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are so many types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to pick the right one. These tips can help narrow your choices, so you can find the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of studying and testing household products. She holds a 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
If you're taking your child for a walk or going shopping, you want to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which cover construction, material performance, safety and performance warnings.
Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have a broad base to ensure that it doesn't slide over when you take or place your child. The seat should also be secured using an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller clear of any parts that can be a danger to children's fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within the reach of young children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for causing messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.
Consider buying a stroller that includes adaptors or will accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be safe transported from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're unsure which features to choose, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. There's also plenty of information on safe stroller use on the internet with tips on choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even if they're sitting in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.