Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a baby stroller is an ideal way to take your child. It's a great way for you to get around without having carry too much gear.
Look for full-size products that fit infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend most of his time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models have the tray that is attached to the back 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 as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to remove for children. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them a great choice for families who use public transportation or ride share. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies which could irritate little fingers. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it's safe to put in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great method to transport all the items you need for your entire family, including diapers, toys, food and more. That's why it's important to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will need more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for shorter trips around town, then a smaller storage basket may suffice.
Many of the top baby strollers have plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance has an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
There are storage options in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that is perfect for your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with an insulated bottle pocket and outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallet within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific models of strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, like toys website or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is an excellent feature because it can aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market, and it's important to decide which features are most important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with large wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long will you use it? Do you need one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers for fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include an reclining chair as well as a footrest so your baby can relax while you are out and out and.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for babies since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of pink and blue, and if you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a stroller that is neutral, which is more versatile and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a necessity for new parents However, with all the options to choose from it can be a challenge to decide which stroller is right for you. The tips above will help you narrow your options to find the best stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards that cover the construction, materials, performance and safety warnings.
Choose a seat that has a low frame and a broad base, so that it won't slide over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with the crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller backward. Keep the stroller free of any components that could pinch a child’s fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within reach of toddlers.
It is important to verify whether the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from folding accidentally while in use, and can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for making mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabric that can handle baby food, snot, and dirty prints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that comes with adaptors or can be used with adaptors purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you are unsure of the features you should choose. You can also find lots of information on safe stroller use on the internet and includes tips for choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.