Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move the baby stroller is a great option to get your child. It's a great way to get around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Choose products that are large and come with a seat that is able to be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features since it's the place where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side so you don't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities have passenger stow pockets which are useful for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy to access for children, so they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You should also look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child's position. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to take off. It is essential to test the stroller both with and without your child. 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 transport. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges and other places where little fingers might be pinched. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and you don't want to give your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your child. It's a method of carrying all the items you require to take with you on the go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and extra clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for a shorter trip around town, a smaller storage basket may suffice.
Many of the best baby strollers have many storage options built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in pockets, trays and other accessories. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-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 exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. These aren't standard features on every stroller but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
Other storage options website to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items like baby wipes or toys, without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you have to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with large wheels that can assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it for, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are prone to spills and other mess. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with the option of reclining seats and an extra footrest for your child to relax in while you're out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, you should consider a travel system. They're a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some even come with an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns and some allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another factor to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colours of blue and pink 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 flexible and looks good with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a necessity for new parents, but with so many options available, it can be hard to determine which stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow your options to choose the perfect 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 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 who are 7 and below.
Safety
When you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you need to be sure that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address the construction, materials performance, safety and performance warnings.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base to ensure that it doesn't slide over when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured with a Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is best to ensure that the stroller is free of any parts that could irritate a child's fingers or pose a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't within reach of a toddler.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for their mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabric that can handle infant food, snot and muddy prints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be safe transferred from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you're unsure of the features you should choose. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller use on the internet with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.