Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move, a baby stroller is a great option to get your child. In addition to giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Look for items that are big enough 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
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's the place where your baby will spend the majority of their time. It is important to choose a comfortable, wide seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats feature reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers have a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the side of the seat, so you won't be concerned about it falling off when moving. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, so they won't drop their drinks while they walk.
You'll also want to take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child's safety. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to unbuckle for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or come with car seat frames. This makes them a good choice for families that use public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at the hinges and other nooks and crannies where little fingers may be snagged. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You don't want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and make sure it fits into your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a way to carry your baby. It's a means to carry all the items you require to take with you on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to store everything in order.
The amount of storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if be using your stroller for longer walks as your baby becomes a toddler, you'll need more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothing and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for shorter trips around town, smaller storage baskets might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies include plenty of built-in storage features. For example the UPPAbaby MINU includes a spacious storage basket as well as 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 carrying the baby or shopping.
There are storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to make room for necessities such as snacks, water and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets here that can keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller however, they can be a great way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since 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 to choose from and you must choose which features are important to you. For example, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold down and take into your car, or do you need one with more wheels to maneuver over bumpy roads? How many hours will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings that can be washed in the machine this is a fantastic feature to have if your susceptible to spills and other messes. Consider a sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller that can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some come with a bassinet for newborns while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colors of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller with neutral colors, which is more versatile and looks good with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a must for all new parents However, with all the options available, it can be hard to know which type of stroller is best for you. The tips above can help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in 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
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 minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards that cover construction, material performance, safety and performance warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you insert your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured using the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, which could cause the stroller to tip backward. It's best to ensure that the stroller is free of parts that could pinch fingers of children or create an choking risk Be sure to check that the brake lever is not within reach of a toddler.
It's important to confirm that the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding while in use, and can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
Another thing to consider is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, because toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics to withstand baby food, snot, and dirty prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, you should consider an option with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow your child to be safely transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're not sure which features to select, a certified safety professional can assist. There's also plenty of information on safe stroller usage online and includes tips for choosing and using the best stroller for your family. And remember to secure your child every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children getting injured by strollers or carriers.