Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a baby stroller is a great option to take your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you want to go without being weighed down by too much gear.
Find full-size products that fit infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet, travel system or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with another way to relax.
The majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models have an attached tray to the back of your seat so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also important to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will secure your child's safety. You should look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are ideal for families who utilize public transportation or rideshares. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and other features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents are rare, they do happen. You don't want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's a method of carrying all the things you need for your family's needs on the go, including food, diapers toys, and more. It is essential to choose the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and extra clothes. If you're planning to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag may be sufficient.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an enormous storage basket as well as a sunshade which pops out, and one-step breaks. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's simple to operate using just one hand when carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options in the form pockets, trays, and other attachments. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to provide space for necessities such as water, snacks and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on all strollers, but they're a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with an universal attachment, so that 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, such as baby wipes or toys, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature because it can help you stay hydrated during your walks and keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers on the market and you have to decide what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller to fold and fit into your car, or one with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it for, and do you need an easy-to-clean stroller? keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are prone to spills and other messes. Other features to consider are the sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can relax while you are out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, think about a travel system. They're a great choice for babies since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is the color. If you're one those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it can be difficult to choose the right one. These tips will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied math and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, that covers materials, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with an elongated frame and an expansive base, so that it won't tip over easily when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is kept out of reach of toddlers.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when it's in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars, or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is easy to clean the fabric of the stroller, since toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that will be able to withstand baby food and snot, as well as dirty footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
A certified safety website expert will assist you in the event that you are not sure of the best features to choose. On the internet, you can find a lot of information on safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to select and use the best stroller for you and your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.