Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your baby while you're on the move. It's a great way for you to get around without having to carry too much gear.
Look for full-size products that fit infants with a reclined seat that is nearly flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with another method of relaxing.
Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children, which can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the back of your seat so you do not have to be concerned if it falls off when you move. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't drop their drinks when they move.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system that will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to fasten for adults and difficult to take off for children. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are a great choice for families who use public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
When you are shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies that little fingers might be pinched. These accidents are rare but they can happen. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a way to transport your child. It's a way to carry all the things you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. It is essential to choose the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will need more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and extra clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
A lot of the top baby strollers have lots of storage features built-in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and one-step brakes. It also has a quick and seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available in pockets, trays and other accessories. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as snacks, water, and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on every stroller but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as toys or wipes without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and also keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are many different types of strollers available and it's crucial to choose what 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 need one with larger wheels to maneuver over bumpy streets? How long will you use it? Do you want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed in the machine and is a great feature to have if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have the option of reclining seats and the footrest to allow your baby to rest in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. They are a great option for infants, since they include an infant seat and can be used right away. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns and some allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be difficult to choose the right one. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options to choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of reviewing and testing household products. She has a degree in mechanical engineering and applied read more mathematics, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is secure regardless of whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or shopping. It should meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials, performance and safety warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame, so that it isn't likely to tip over when you insert your child in or take them out. The seat should also be secured using an elastic crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. It is recommended to keep the stroller clear of parts that could pinch a child's fingers or pose an choking risk and ensure that the brake lever isn't within reach of a toddler.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Choose a model that has washable fabric that can handle baby food, snot, and dirt-stained prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, consider choosing a model with adaptors that are included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety expert can help. On the internet, you'll find plenty of information regarding safe stroller use. This includes advice on how to pick and use the right stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.