Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your baby while you're on the move. It's a great way for you to get around without having carry a lot of equipment.
Find products that are full-sized and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have a bassinet, travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend most of his time in it. It is important to choose an easy, spacious seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and take a break. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
A majority of strollers have the option of a tray for children which is useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models come with an attached tray to the side of your seat so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you are moving. Some strollers for jogging have pockets for passengers to stow, which are handy to hold bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach, so they won't spill their drinks while they walk.
You'll also want to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to try 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 can be used with infant car seats or come with car seat frames. This makes them a great option for families who use public transport. If you plan to only use the stroller on occasion you may want a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, and any other nooks or crevices which could irritate little fingers. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want to give your child an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a way to carry your baby. It's also a great way to carry all the things you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers, toys, food and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to store everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for longer walks as your baby develops into a toddler, you'll need more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra water bottles and clothes. If you intend to use your stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart may be sufficient.
Many of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with an ample storage basket as well as a sunshade which pops out, and one-step breaks. It has a fast, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
You can also find storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller to provide space for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While they're not an essential feature of all strollers, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to fit specific strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like toys or wipes without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is also a nice feature to have as it will help you stay hydrated during your strolls and also keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers on the market and you have to choose which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with large wheels that can help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you intend to use it for, and do you need a stroller that's easy to 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. Some models also have a reclining seat and the footrest to allow your baby to relax in while get more info you're out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, consider a travel system. They're a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some even have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns and some allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another thing to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you may prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their infants, but there are a myriad of types of strollers that it is difficult to choose the right one. The tips above will help you narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child for a walk or going shopping, you need to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or take them out. The seat should also be secured with a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller backward. Keep the stroller clear of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of the reach of young children.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism 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. It's important to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric, as babies and toddlers tend to leave a mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics to withstand infant 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 or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.
If you're unsure which features to pick an expert in safety can help. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even if they are seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.