Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a stroller for your baby is a great way to take your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you need to be without being burdened by too much equipment.
Find products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend a lot of time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different way.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat so you don't need to worry about it falling off while moving. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child's position. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to remove for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both 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 car seat frames. This makes them an excellent choice for families that use public transport. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits inside your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means to carry your baby. It's a way to carry all the items you require for your family's needs on the go, including diapers, food toys, and more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
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'll require more storage space to store diaper bags, snacks and other clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for a shorter trip around town, an a smaller storage basket might be enough.
A majority of the top baby strollers have plenty of storage options built in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It has a fast, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in pockets, trays and other accessories. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for necessities such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. These aren't standard features on every stroller, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific strollers, while others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
Also, look for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as toys or wipes without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since it lets you remain hydrated while strolling with your child and helps keep your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are many types of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold up and put in your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to maneuver over bumpy sidewalks? How many hours will you use it? Do you want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers for fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills and other messes. Consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can relax while you are out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which 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 that can be used from day one. Some have a bassinet option for newborns as well as others that 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 colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with any outfit.
A stroller for your more info baby is a must for all new parents, but with so many choices available it can be difficult to decide which stroller is right for you. The tips above will help you narrow down your options so that you can find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics 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 to a walk or shopping, you'll want to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials performance, safety and performance 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 out of it. The seat should also be secured with an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any part that could pinch a child’s fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of children.
It's worth checking that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding during use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to clean the fabric of the stroller, as babies and toddlers are prone to making messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics to withstand the snot, baby food, and dirt-stained prints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be safely transported from the car to stroller and back.
If you're unsure of which features to choose, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. There's also plenty of information on safe stroller usage online and includes tips for choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children being injured by strollers or carriers.