Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move the baby stroller is a great way to transport your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you want to be without getting overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Find items that are big enough and have a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet, travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features because it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. You should find an easy, spacious seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats feature reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that let your child relax in a different manner.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models come with a tray that is attached to the side of your seat so you aren't worried whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, meaning they won't fall and spill their drinks while moving.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system that will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to take off for children. It is important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them an excellent option for families who take public transportation. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times you may want a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges as well as any other places where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child the gift of a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means to transport your baby. It's a way to carry 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 that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. If you plan to use your stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance has a large storage basket, a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It has a fast, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
You can also find storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. While they're not an essential feature of every stroller however, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as toys or wipes without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your child, and also helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you have to determine what features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold down and take into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to navigate bumpy streets? How many hours will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other dirt. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, consider a travel system. These are a great option for babies since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for infants, while others let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another thing to consider. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you may want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and can be paired with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a baby stroller but there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be difficult to pick the right one. These tips here will help you narrow your options so that you can choose the perfect stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City with her three kids 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you need to feel confident that the stroller you select is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or take them out. The seat should also be secured using a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this could cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Keep the stroller clear 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 reach of young children.
It is important to verify whether the stroller has a locking mechanism that prevents it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for their mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that can stand up to baby food, snot and dirt-covered footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, think about getting one with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and then back.
If you're unsure which features to choose, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. On the internet, you can find a lot of information on safe stroller use. This includes tips on how to pick and use the correct stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child every time, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.