Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your little one while you're on the move. In addition to giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to go without being weighed down by too much equipment.
Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features because it's the place where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is particularly suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have footrests that can be stowed to provide your child with a method of relaxing.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the seat's side so you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers that are great for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will secure your child in place. You'll want to 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 for adults and difficult for children to take off. It is important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or car seat frames. This makes them a great option for families who take public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at 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 be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's a means to carry all the things you need for your family's needs on the go including diapers, food toys, and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage space 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 require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. On the other side, if you'll only be using your stroller for short trips around town, smaller storage baskets might suffice.
A majority of the top baby strollers have many storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as one-step brakes. It also comes with a quick and seamless fold that's simple to operate using just one hand when carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to keep things like snacks, water, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller, but they can be an excellent method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
Other storage options to look out for are pockets and side nettings 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 because it can help you stay hydrated during your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and it's essential to decide which features are most important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold and carry into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy roads? How long do you plan to use it for, and do you need a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills and other mess. Consider a sun shade or a handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with an adjustable reclining seat as well as an extra footrest for your child to relax in while you're out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are great options for newborns, as they include an infant seat and can be used right away. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is color. If you're one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents however, with the here many choices available, it can be hard to decide which stroller is right for you. These tips can help narrow your choices, so you can select the best stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and below.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you need to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standards, that covers materials, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you put your child in or take them out. The seat should also be secured with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items on the handles, which can cause the stroller to tilt 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 accessible to toddlers.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for their messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that can stand up to baby food, snot and dirty footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and then back.
If you're unsure of which features to pick an expert in safety can be of assistance. Online, you can get a wealth of information about safe stroller use. This includes tips on how to select and use the right stroller for you and your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they are seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.