Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your little one when you're on the go. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Look for full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that reclines almost flat (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 the majority of his time in it. It is essential to find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and take a break. Some seats come with reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children which is useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side and you don't be concerned about it falling off while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they won't spill their drinks when moving.
You'll also want to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which can help keep your child's position. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants, which makes them a great choice for families who take public transportation or rideshares. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times you may want one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to inspect the hinges and any other nooks or crevices which could irritate little fingers. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure that it will fit into your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is much more than just a way to transport your child. It's also a great method to transport all the things you require for your entire family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to pick 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 on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage options built in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand while holding a baby or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zipper-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. They're not standard features on every stroller, but they are a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific models of strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as wipes or toys without taking up valuable basket space. A cup holder is a useful feature because it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your baby and keeps your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many different types of strollers on the market and it's crucial to choose what features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold down and take into your car or do you require one with more wheels to get over bumpy sidewalks? How long will you be using it? Do you want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine, which is a great option if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. You might want to consider a sun shade or a handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to relax in while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. These are great options for babies, since 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 an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to take here into consideration. If you're one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents however, with the many options available, it can be hard to decide which stroller is best for you. These tips can help narrow your options, so that you can choose the ideal stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of 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 below.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers construction, material performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.
Find a seat with a low frame and an expansive base, so that it won't slide over when you put or remove your child. The seat should also be secured with the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tip backward. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can make a child's fingers uncomfortable or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within reach of toddlers.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it's in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for making messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and dirty prints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, think about getting an option with adaptors that are included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be safe taken from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you are unsure of which features to select. On the internet, you can find a lot of information about safe stroller usage. This includes advice on how to pick and use the best stroller for your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they are seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers and carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.