Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your child when you're on the move. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you need to be without being weighed down by too much equipment.
Look for items that are big enough 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
The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend a lot of time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is especially useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models have an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you do not have to be concerned about it falling off when you move. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers that are great to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't fall and spill their drinks when they move.
You should also think about the stroller's safety system, which will help keep your child safe. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them a good option for families who take public transport. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times you may want a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crevices that could pinch little fingers. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great method to transport all the items you need for your entire family, including diapers as well as food, toys and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with lots of storage features built-in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes that are one-step. It folds quickly and almost seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in pockets, trays and other accessories. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. While these aren't an essential feature of all strollers however, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk to your ride. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others come with an attachment that is universal to ensure they're compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small things like toys or wipes without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your baby and ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market, and you need to determine what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with large wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it, and do you want an easy-to-clean stroller? keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that are machine washable this is a fantastic feature to have if you're susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can relax while you are out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are excellent options for babies, since they include an infant seat and can be used as soon as. Some come with a bassinet for babies, while some let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to think about. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you may want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and will look great with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a must for all new parents however, with the many options available, it can be hard to know which type of stroller is the best one for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree in applied math 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 to a walk or shopping, you need to feel confident that the stroller you pick is safe. read more It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard that covers materials, construction performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.
Choose a seat that has a low frame and a broad base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with a Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this could make the stroller go backwards. It's best to ensure that the stroller is free of any parts that could irritate the fingers of a child or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever is not accessible to toddlers.
It's worth checking that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or dashboard. It's important to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Look for a model with washable fabrics that will stand up to food spills and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, think about getting an option with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will enable your child to be safely taken from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert will assist you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.