Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to easily carry your baby when you're out on the go. Aside from giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you need to be without getting burdened by too much gear.
Choose items that are big enough and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly beneficial for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have feet that can be stowed, which provides your child with a option to relax.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray which is useful to store toys and snacks. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the back of your seat so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child safe. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them a great choice for families that use public transportation. If you only plan to use the stroller on occasion, you might prefer a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges and other places where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want to give your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and make sure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a method to transport your baby. It's a way to carry all the items you require for your family's needs on the go including diapers, food, toys and more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage space you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll use your stroller for longer walks as your baby grows into an adult, you'll require more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra water bottles and clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for shorter trips around town, an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage options built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It features a quick and 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. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding any weight or bulk to your ride. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also search for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is also an excellent feature since it can aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market and it's crucial to choose which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or with large wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you expect to use it, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers which can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are prone to spills and other messes. Consider a sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with the option of reclining chairs and the footrest, so your baby can rest while you are out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. These are great options for infants, since they come with an infant seat and can be used right away. Some even come with the option of a bassinet for infants and some allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Another thing to think about is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it can be a challenge to choose the right one. The tips above will help you narrow down your options so that you can find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a get more info degree from 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
Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, that covers materials, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have an expansive base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you take or place your child. The seat should also be secured with the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this could cause the stroller tip backward. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is out of reach of children.
It is important to verify that the stroller has a locking mechanism that prevents it from accidentally folding during use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for their messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand baby food, snot, and muddy prints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider one with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be securely transferred from the car to stroller and back.
If you're unsure of which features to pick an expert in safety can help. You can also find lots of information on safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.