Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a baby stroller is an ideal way to get your child. It's a great way for you to move around without having to carry too much gear.
Find products that are full-sized and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most essential features as it's where your child will spend a lot of time. You should find an easy, spacious seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and take a break. Some seats recline, which is particularly suitable for infants and babies who do not yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that let your child relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so that you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while 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 aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You should also examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will secure your child's safety. 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 to secure for adults, but difficult to remove for children. It's 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 have car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants making them a great choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride shares. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may want a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these accidents are rare, they do happen. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. 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 just a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great method to carry all the things you need for your entire family, such as diapers food, toys, and more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll use your stroller for extended walks as your baby becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra water bottles and clothes. On the other side, if you'll only be using your baby stroller for a shorter trip around town, smaller storage baskets might suffice.
Many of the top baby strollers include many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with a large storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick and seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available 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 lets you keep things like water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. These aren't standard features on all strollers, but they are a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, click here whereas others feature a universal attachment to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, such as toys or baby wipes, and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature since it can aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car or with large wheels that can aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do you want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills and other mess. Consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and out and.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, think about a travel system. They're a great choice for babies since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to think about. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with every outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it is difficult to choose the right one. These suggestions can help you narrow down your options, so that you can select the best stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She has 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 aged 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe regardless of whether you're taking the baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have a wide base so that it won't tip over easily when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, which can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. It is recommended to keep the stroller clear of objects that could get caught in fingers of children or create a choking hazard Be sure to check that the brake lever is not within reach of toddlers.
It's worth checking whether the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from folding accidentally during use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as children and babies are notorious for making mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.
If you plan to use a car seat along with your stroller, think about getting an option with adaptors that are included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert will assist you in the event that you are not sure of the best features to choose. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children being injured by strollers or carriers.