Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your baby while you're on the move. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you need to be without being weighed down by 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 come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most essential features as it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different way to relax.
Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the seat's side and you don't be concerned about it falling off when moving. pushchairsandprams jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers, which are handy for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they won't spill their drinks when moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child secure. The ideal is a five-point harness that secures at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to remove. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or come with car seat frames. This makes them a good choice for families that use public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only occasionally, you may prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller, to check the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies which could irritate little fingers. These accidents are rare but they occur. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your child. It's a way to carry all the things you need for your family's needs on the go, including diapers, food, toys and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if be using your stroller for long walks as your child becomes a toddler, you'll need more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothes and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for a shorter trip around town, then smaller storage baskets might be enough.
A majority of the top baby strollers have plenty of storage options built into them. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU comes with an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It also has a quick and seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available in tray, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that is perfect for your stroller to make room for necessities such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pocket to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. Although they're not the standard features of every stroller, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others have an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
You can also search for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as wipes or toys without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your baby and helps keep your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and it's crucial to decide what features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller to fold and fit into your car or with large wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do you want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed in the machine this is a fantastic feature to have if you're susceptible to spills or other dirt. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have the option of reclining chairs and an ottoman so that your child can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want a stroller that grows with them. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for infants, while others let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is the color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you may want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller which is more flexible and can be paired with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a must for all new parents However, with all the choices available it can be a challenge to know which type of stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the right stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She has a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and below.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Find a seat with a low frame and a wide base to ensure that it doesn't tip over easily when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured with the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects on the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller clear of any parts that can make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, make sure the brake lever is kept out of reach of children.
It's worth checking whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally during use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric since toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that will stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're unsure of which features to choose, a certified safety expert can help. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times even when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children being injured in strollers and baby carriers.