Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your baby when you're on the move. It's a great way to get around without having carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are large enough to can accommodate infants, with a reclined seat that is nearly flat (newborns still need neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend the majority of his time in it. You should find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side and you don't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as 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 consider the stroller's restraint system which will keep your child secure. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to take off for children. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or can be used with an infant car seat making them an ideal choice for families who utilize public transportation or rideshares. If you only plan to use the stroller on occasion, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. While these accidents are rare however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Also, be aware of the foldability of the stroller and make sure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is much more than a means to transport your child. It's also a great way to carry all the things you require for your entire family, including diapers, toys, food and much more. This is why it's crucial to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to store everything in order.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU includes a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It features a quick and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
You can also find storage options in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and lets you store essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While these aren't an essential feature of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding any extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is useful because it can help you stay hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you must decide what features are important to you. For example, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold and take into your car or do you require one with larger wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How long do you intend to use it for, and do you want a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers for fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have the option of reclining seats and a footrest for your baby to relax in while you're out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that 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 immediately. 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 go on a ride.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that will go with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their infants, but there are so many types of strollers available that it is difficult to select the best one. These tips can help you narrow down your options, so that you can select the best stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in studying and testing household products. She holds a degree from applied math 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
You'll want to know that your stroller is secure regardless of whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards that cover material, construction performance, safety and performance warnings.
Find a seat with frames that are low and have a broad base so that it won't slide over when read more you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured using a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this could cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any components that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of young children.
It's important to confirm that the stroller is equipped with an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction during use, and that it can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
Another thing to consider is how it is simple to clean the fabric of the stroller, since toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Look for a model with washable fabrics that stand up to food spills, snot and muddy footprints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be safe taken from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you're unsure of the best features to choose. Online, you can find a lot of information on safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to choose and use the right stroller for you and your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.