Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies makes it easy to carry your little one when you're out on the go. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Find full-size products that can accommodate infants, with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend most of his time in it. It is essential to find an easy, spacious seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different option to relax.
The majority of strollers have a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with the tray that is attached to the seat's side and you don't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't spill their drinks when they move.
You should also think about the stroller's safety system, that will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs. The buckles should be simple for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. It is essential to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them ideal for families who utilize public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crannies which could irritate little fingers. Although these accidents are rare, they do happen. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and ensure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great way to transport all the items you require for your entire family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and much more. It is essential to choose a stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for longer walks as your baby grows into an adult, you'll require more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothing and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for shorter trips around town, a smaller storage basket may suffice.
A lot of the top baby strollers have many storage options built into them. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It has a fast and seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
You can also find storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks and diapers. It also features bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallets in reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While they're not a standard feature of all strollers but they are an excellent method of keeping your stroller organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk to your ride. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys, without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is a nice feature to have as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold down and take into your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy roads? How long do you expect to use it for, and do you want a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that are machine washable, which is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other messes. Consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as the footrest to allow your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are excellent options for newborns, as they include a baby seat and can be used right away. Some even come with an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns and some allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you may prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with every outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents, but with so many choices available it can be a challenge to know which type of stroller is best for you. These suggestions will help you narrow your choices, so you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics 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
When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material performance, and safety warnings.
Find a seat with a wide base more info and a seat that's low in the frame, so that it isn't likely to tip over when you put your child in or out. The seat should be secured using a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of parts that could pinch a child's fingers or pose a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't accessible to toddlers.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it's in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars, or the dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for their mess. Choose a model that has washable fabric that can handle infant food, snot and muddy prints.
Think about buying a stroller which includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and return to the car.
If you're not sure which features to pick an expert in safety can be of assistance. Online, you can find a lot of information on safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to choose and use the correct stroller for you and your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.