Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a baby stroller is an ideal way to transport your child. It's a great way to get around without having carry a lot of equipment.
Choose items that are big enough and come with a seat that is able to be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's the place where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is especially suitable for infants and babies who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with a different method of relaxing.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have a tray that is attached to the side of your seat so you do not have to be concerned about it falling off when you are moving. Some strollers for jogging have pockets for passengers to stow that are great for storing sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system, which will keep your child secure. You should 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 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 come with car frame seats. This makes them a great option for families who use public transport. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times, you might prefer one that is lightweight and has less bells, whistles and features.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies which could irritate little fingers. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and make sure it fits inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than a means to transport your child. It's also a great way to carry all the things you need for your entire family, including diapers, toys, food and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space 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 snacks, a diaper bag and extra clothes. On the other side, if you'll only use your stroller for short trips around town, then an a smaller storage basket might be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
There are storage options in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also features bottles with insulated pockets as well as external slip pockets that keep keys and wallet within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While these aren't a standard feature of every stroller, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller tidy and organized without adding any extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as wipes or toys without taking up valuable basket space. A cup holder is a useful feature because it allows you to stay hydrated while strolling with your child, and also keeps your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market, and it's important to choose which features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and carry into your car, or do you need one with more wheels to maneuver over bumpy roads? How long do you intend to use it for, and do you need an easy-to-clean stroller? clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that are machine washable, which is a great feature to have if you're prone to spills or other mess. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models include the option of reclining chairs and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want a stroller that grows with them. These are great options for babies, since they come with an infant seat and can be used immediately. 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 aspect to consider. If you are one of 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, more versatile stroller that will go with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a must for all new parents, but with so many choices available it can be a challenge to decide which stroller is right for you. These suggestions will help you narrow your here 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 evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is secure, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements set 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 wide base, so that it won't fall over when you put or remove your child. The seat should also be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tip backward. It is recommended to keep the stroller free of any parts that could irritate the fingers of a child or create an choking risk and ensure that the brake lever isn't accessible to toddlers.
It's worth checking that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, since toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that will stand up to baby food, snot and dirty footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely taken from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you in the event that you are not sure of the best features to choose. On the internet, you can get a wealth of information about safe stroller use. This includes advice on how to choose and use the correct stroller for you and your family. Make sure you buckle your child every time you are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children being injured in strollers and baby carriers.