Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move, a baby stroller is an ideal way to take your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you need to be without getting overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Choose products that are full-sized and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side so you don't be concerned about it falling over while moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities come with pockets for passengers that are great for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they won't spill their drinks when moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both opened and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants making them ideal for families who take public transportation or ride shares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to inspect 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 amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure it fits into your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great option to carry all the things you need for your entire family, including diapers food, toys, and much more. That's why it's important to pick a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and other clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for a shorter trip around town, smaller storage baskets might be enough.
Many of the top strollers for babies have plenty of built-in storage features. For example the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes that are one-step. It also has a quick close-seam fold that is simple to operate using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. They're not standard features on all strollers, but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with a universal attachment to make them compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it can help you stay hydrated during your strolls and also keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers to choose from and you must decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or one with large wheels that can aid you on bumpy streets. How many hours will you use it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings that can be washed in the machine and is a great feature to have if you're prone to spills or other dirt. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include the option of reclining chairs and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. They are a great option for babies, since they come with an infant seat and can be used right away. Some come with a bassinet for babies, while some allow you to add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colours of blue and pink, 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 neutral-colored stroller, which is more versatile and will look great with any outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be a challenge to select the best one. The tips above will help you narrow down your options so that you can find the best stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you need to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base, so that it won't tip over easily when you take or place your child. The seat should also be secured using a Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller read more backward. Make sure the stroller is free of any parts that can pinch a child’s fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, make sure the brake lever is kept out of the reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that prevents it accidentally folding when in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, since toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.
Think about buying a stroller which has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan 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 can assist you if you're unsure of the features you should choose. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children getting injured by strollers or carriers.