Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller makes it easy to carry your little one while you're on the move. It's a great way to move around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some have a bassinet, travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend most of his time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats come with reclines, which are beneficial for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The most effective models have an attached tray to the side of your seat so you don't have to worry if it falls off when you move. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they won't spill their drinks when moving.
You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. The ideal is a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be simple for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. It is important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with an infant car seat making them ideal for families who utilize public transportation or ride share. However, if you plan to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at the hinges as well as any other places where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You do not want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and make sure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great method to carry all the things you'll need for your whole family, including diapers as well as food, toys and more. It's crucial to pick a stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and other clothes. On the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for a shorter trip around town, then a smaller storage basket may suffice.
A lot of the top strollers for babies include 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 one-step brakes. It folds quickly and almost seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
There are also storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with an insulated bottle pocket and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallet within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding any weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others come with a universal attachment so that they're compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small things like toys or wipes without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your baby and keeps your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and you must determine what features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with large wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you plan to use it for, and do you want a stroller check here that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings that are machine washable, which is a great option if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have the option of reclining seats and a footrest for your baby to relax in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need an infant stroller that can grow with them. They are a great option for newborns, as they include a baby seat and can be used as soon as. Some have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns as well as others that allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Color is another factor to take into consideration. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors, which is more versatile and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a must for all new parents, but with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know which type of stroller is the best one for you. These tips will help you narrow down your options to choose the right stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. She has a degree in 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is secure, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material, performance and safety warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that is 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 the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, as this could cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can be a danger to children's fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within reach of toddlers.
It's worth checking that the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from folding accidentally while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
Another important consideration is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric as babies and toddlers are prone to making messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand baby food, snot, and dirt-stained prints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're unsure which features to select, a certified safety expert can be of assistance. On the internet, you'll get a wealth of information regarding safe stroller use. This includes advice on how to pick and use the right stroller for you and your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children getting hurt in strollers and carriers.