Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies makes it easy to carry your little one while you're on the go. In addition to giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Look for products that are large and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with another way to relax.
Most strollers offer an infant tray which is useful to store toys and snacks. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the back of your seat so that you aren't worried whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging strollers have passenger stow pockets that are great for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach and they won't fall and spill their drinks when they move.
You should also consider the stroller's safety system, which will help keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to fasten for adults and difficult to take off for children. 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 car frame seats. This makes them a good option for families who take public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges as well as any other places where little fingers may be snagged. Although these accidents are rare, they can happen. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits in your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great way to transport all the items you need for your entire family, including diapers as well as food, toys and more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space to store diaper bags, snacks and extra clothes. If you plan to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller basket may be sufficient.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage options built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance features an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple close-seam fold that is easy to manage with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for food items.
There are also storage options in the form pockets, trays, and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zipper-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as water, snacks and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in 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 way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others feature an attachment that is universal so that they're compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets that can be used to here store small items such as baby wipes or toys and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder is a nice feature to have since it can aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and also keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market, and you need to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or with large wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you expect to use it for, and do you need a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be washed in the machine this is a fantastic feature to have if your prone to spills or other dirt. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as an extra footrest for your child to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, think about a travel system. They are a great option for newborns, as they come with an infant seat that can be used right away. Some bassinets are designed for infants, while others allow you to add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents, but with so many options to choose from it can be difficult to know which type of stroller is best for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the right stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. 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 want to feel confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards that cover material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat low in the frame so it won't easily tip over when you insert your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured using an elastic crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this can make the stroller go backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any components that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within the reach of toddlers.
It's important to confirm that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for making messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that stand up to food spills, snot and dirt-covered footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that comes with adaptors or can be used with adaptors purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely taken from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. On the internet, you can find plenty of information regarding safe stroller use. This includes advice on how to choose and use the right stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times, including when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.