Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to easily carry your little one when you're on the go. It's a great way to get around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Find products that are full-sized and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important 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 recline, which is especially suitable for infants and babies who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with a different option to relax.
The majority of strollers come with an infant tray which is useful to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with the tray that is attached to the side of the seat, so you won't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't spill their drinks when they move.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child inside it, both opened 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 a great option for families who take public transportation. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that little fingers might be pinched. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great way to carry all the things you need for your entire family, including diapers, toys, food and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if you'll be using your stroller for extended walks as your baby grows into an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for shorter trips around town, an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
A majority of the top strollers for babies come with many storage options built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes with one step. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's easy to handle using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly in your stroller and allows you to keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallet in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. Although they're not the standard features of all strollers however, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller neat and organized without adding weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your baby and helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you must decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that read more folds easily into your car, or one with big wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How many hours will you use it? Do you need one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option for those who you are prone to spills and other dirt. Other features to consider are a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with a reclining seat and an extra footrest for your child to rest on while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great option for families who need a stroller that grows with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for babies, while some let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Color is another thing to consider. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a neutral-colored stroller, which is more versatile and looks good with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is essential for all new parents However, with all the choices available it can be difficult to determine which stroller is right for you. These tips will help you narrow your options, so that you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you place your child in or out. The seat should also be securely fastened with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any part that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of young children.
It's worth checking that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from accidentally folding while in use, and can be locked by pressing the handlebar or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for their messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle the snot, baby food, and dirt-stained prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat with your stroller, you should consider a model with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.
A certified safety expert will assist you in the event that you are not sure of the features you should choose. There's also a wealth of information on safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.