Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies makes it easy to carry your baby while you're on the go. It's a great way for you to move around without having to carry too much gear.
Find products that are large enough to can accommodate infants, with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some have a bassinet, 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 allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly beneficial for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have feet that can be stowed, which provides your child with a method of relaxing.
The majority of strollers come with an infant tray that can be useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so that you don't have to worry if it falls off when you move. Some jogging strollers have 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 look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child's safety. 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 take off. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child inside it, both open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them a great option for families who use public transportation. However, if you plan to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, and any other nooks or crannies which could irritate little fingers. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Pay attention to the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great way to transport all the things you need for your entire family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and much more. That's why it's important to pick a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and other clothes. On the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for a shorter trip around town, then smaller storage baskets might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with many storage features built-in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU comes with an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
There are also storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep things like snacks, water and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. These aren't 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 be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like toys or wipes without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is an important feature as it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child, and also keeps your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available, and you need to decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers for fabric that can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills and other mess. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have a reclining seat and an extra footrest for your child to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, think about a travel system. They're a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another aspect to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a neutral-colored stroller which is more flexible and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a must for all new parents, but with so many options available, it can be hard to decide which stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow down your choices so that you can choose the right stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of reviewing and testing household products. She has 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 who are 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child pushchairsandpramsuk for a stroll or shopping, you'll want to be confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat low in the frame so it won't easily tip over when you place your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured using an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other objects on the handles, which could cause the stroller to tip backward. It is best to ensure that the stroller is free of objects that could get caught in a child's fingers or pose an choking risk, and always check the brake lever isn't accessible to a toddler.
It is important to verify whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from accidentally folding during use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for their mess. Choose a model that has washable fabric that can handle infant food, snot and muddy prints.
If you plan to use a car seat alongside your stroller, think about getting one with adaptors that are included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.
If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety expert can be of assistance. On the internet, you'll find plenty of information about safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to choose and use the right stroller for you and your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are secured. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children getting injured in strollers and baby carriers.