Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your little one when you're out on the go. It's a great method to get around without having carry a lot of equipment.
Find full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
Most strollers offer a child tray, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The best models come with an attached tray to the side of your seat, so you don't have to worry whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system which will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to take off for children. It's important to test the stroller both 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 have car frame seats. This makes them a great choice for families that use public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When you are shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges and any other places where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want your child an injury to the fingertip. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's a means to carry all the things you need to take with you on the go including diapers, food toys, and more. That's why it's important to choose a stroller with ample storage space to store everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will need more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and extra clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller for short excursions around the town, a smaller cart may be sufficient.
A majority of the top strollers for babies come with lots of storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an ample storage basket as well as a sunshade which pops out, and one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick and seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
You can also find storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and lets you store essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. While these aren't an essential feature of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others come with an universal attachment, so that they're compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like wipes or toys without taking push chair up valuable basket space. A cup holder is also an excellent feature because it can help you stay hydrated during your walks and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market, and it's important to choose which features are most important to you. For example, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and put in your car or do you require one with more wheels to navigate bumpy sidewalks? How long will you be using it? Do you want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine, which is a great feature to have if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have the option of reclining seats and an extra footrest for your child to relax in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need a stroller to grow with them. These are great options for newborns, as they include an infant seat that can be used as soon as. Some come with a bassinet for newborns while others permit the addition of a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to think about. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and looks good with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a must for all new parents however, with the many options to choose from it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is best for you. These tips will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a seat that has an elongated frame and an expansive base, so that it won't tip over easily when you take or place your child. The seat should also be secured with the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items on the handles, which could cause the stroller to slide backwards. It's best to keep the stroller free of parts that could pinch a child's fingers or pose the risk of choking Be sure to check that the brake lever is not within reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
Another thing to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric as babies and toddlers are prone to making messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that can stand up to food spills, snot and dirty footprints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and then back.
If you're unsure of which features to choose, a certified safety expert can help. On the internet, you'll find a lot of information regarding safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to pick and use the best stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children getting injured by strollers or carriers.