Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your child when you're on the go. It's a great way for you to get around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Find products that are large enough to can accommodate infants, with a reclined seat that is almost flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and take a break. Some seats come with reclines, which are helpful for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with another way to relax.
A majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be useful to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with the tray that is attached to the seat's side, so you won't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities have passenger stow pockets which are useful to hold bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, meaning they won't fall and spill their drinks while they walk.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system that will keep your child safe. You should look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults and difficult for children to take off. It is essential to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or come with car frame seats. This makes them a great option for families who use public transportation. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that little fingers might be pinched. While these accidents are rare but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure that it will fit into your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a way to carry your baby. It's also a great option to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers, toys, food and more. It's crucial to pick the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage 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'll require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for short trips around town, then smaller storage baskets might suffice.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance features an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in the form of tray, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that is perfect for your stroller to provide space for the essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pockets that can keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. Although they're not a standard feature of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with an attachment that is universal to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
Other storage options to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, like toys or baby wipes, and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style and Colour
There are many types of strollers on the market, and you need to decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car, or one with big wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you intend to use it for, and do you want a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that are machine washable this is a fantastic option if you're susceptible to spills and other mess. Consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have the option of reclining seats and an extra footrest for your child to rest on while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need a stroller to grow with them. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some bassinets are designed for newborns while others let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller, which is more versatile and looks good with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby however, there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it can be difficult to choose the right one. The tips above can help you narrow down your options so that 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 applied mathematics and mechanical engineering and her work has click here been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children who are 7 and below.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you want to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base, so that it won't fall over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with a belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items on the handles, which could cause the stroller slide backwards. It is best to ensure that the stroller is free of any parts that could irritate a child's fingers or pose an choking risk Be sure to check that the brake lever is not within reach of a toddler.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
Another thing to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric, as babies and toddlers tend to leave a mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that stand up to food spills and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
If you plan to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider one that has adaptors included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
A certified safety expert can help you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. Online, you can get a wealth of information about safe stroller usage. This includes advice on how to pick and use the right stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.