Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move the baby stroller is an ideal way to transport your child. Aside from giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you want to be without getting overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Find products that are large and have a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet, travel system, or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important since your child will spend a lot of time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
A majority of strollers have the option of a tray for children, which can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so that you do not have to be concerned about it falling off when you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they won't spill their drinks when moving.
It is also important to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which can help keep your child's position. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to unbuckle for children. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car frame seats. This makes them an excellent option for families who take public transport. If you only plan to use the stroller on occasion you may want a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a method to carry your baby. It's also a great method to transport all the items you need for your entire family, such as diapers, toys, food and more. It's crucial to pick a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. If you plan to use your stroller for short excursions around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage options built into them. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as one-step brakes. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's simple to operate using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for food items.
You can also find storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zipper-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to keep things like water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. These aren't features that are standard on all strollers, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others include universal attachments, making them compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is an excellent feature because it can help you stay hydrated on your walks and keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers available, and you need to decide what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car or one with large wheels that can assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you expect to use it, and do you want an easy-to-clean stroller? clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings that are machine washable, which is a great option if you're susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Also, some models have a reclining seat and the footrest to allow your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. These are excellent Pushchairs & Prams options for newborns, as they include an infant seat that can be used right away. Some even come with a bassinet option for newborns and some allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for 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 stroller for their baby however, there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it can be a challenge to pick the right one. These suggestions can help narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in studying 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 who are 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child for a walk or going shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material performance, safety and performance warnings.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you take or place your child. The seat should be securely fastened with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. It is best to keep the stroller free of objects that could get caught in the fingers of a child or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't in the reach of children.
It's important to confirm that the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding during use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since babies and children are notorious for their messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that will stand up to food spills, snot and muddy footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety professional can assist. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children who are hurt in strollers and carriers.