Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is a great option to take your child. It's a great way to get around without having to carry too much gear.
Look for products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined nearly 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. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different way.
A majority of strollers have an infant tray, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat and you don't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will secure your child's safety. You should look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test out 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 frame seats. This makes them a good option for families who use public transport. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that could pinch little fingers. These accidents are rare but they can happen. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure it fits inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's a means to carry all the things you need to take with you on the go including diapers, food toys, and more. This is why it's crucial to select a stroller that has plenty of storage space to store everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and extra clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have many storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an enormous storage basket as well as a sunshade which can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand while holding a baby or shopping for food items.
There are storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller, allowing room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallet within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While these aren't an essential feature of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others have an universal attachment, to make them compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, like baby wipes or toys, without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful because it can help you stay hydrated during your strolls and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers available, and you need to determine what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic feature to have if you're susceptible to spills and other messes. Other features worth considering include a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with an adjustable reclining seat as well as the footrest to allow your baby to rest in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families who need an infant stroller that can grow with them. They are a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some have a bassinet option for newborns and some allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another factor to consider. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and looks good with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants but there are so many types of strollers that it is difficult to pick the right one. These tips will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the right stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree from mechanical engineering and applied mathematics, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a seat that has a low frame and a broad base, so that it won't fall over when you take or place your child. The seat should 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 tip backward. It is best to keep the stroller clear of any parts that could irritate a child's fingers or pose a choking hazard Be sure to check that the brake lever isn't within reach of toddlers.
Verify that the read more stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another important consideration is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric, as babies and toddlers tend to leave a mess. Choose a model that has washable fabric that can handle infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be safely taken from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you're unsure of which features to select. On the internet, you'll get a wealth of information on safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to pick and use the right stroller for you and your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are secured. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.