Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a stroller for your baby is an ideal way to take your child. It's a great way for you to move around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most essential features as it's where your child will spend a lot of time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with another way to relax.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The top models have the tray that is attached to the side of the seat, so you won't be concerned about it falling off while moving. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child in place. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to fasten for adults, and difficult to remove for children. You'll want to test 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 frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are a great choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride share. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only often, you might prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other nooks and crannies that tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits into your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is much more than a means to carry your baby. It's a method of carrying all the items you require for your family's needs on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. It's crucial to pick a stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if use your stroller for extended walks as your baby develops into an adult, you'll require more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, additional clothing and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for shorter trips around town, then an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have plenty of built-in storage features. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as one-step brakes. It also features a simple close-seam fold that is easy to manage with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zipper-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to keep things like snacks, water, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets as well as an exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller, but they're a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others feature an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items like toys or baby wipes, and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your child and ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market and it's essential to decide which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller to fold and fit into your car or one with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you plan to use it, and do you want a stroller that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine, which is a great feature to have if your prone to spills or other mess. Consider a sun shade or a handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families who want a stroller to grow with them. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another aspect to think about. If you're one those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. You could also consider choosing a stroller with neutral colors which is more flexible and looks good with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a must for all new parents however, with the many options available it can be difficult to decide which stroller is the best one for you. These tips will help you narrow down your options to choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to know that your stroller is secure, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or going out shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction performance, safety and performance warnings.
Choose a seat that has an elongated frame and an expansive base, so that it won't tip over easily when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured with an elastic belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items on the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of reach of children.
It's worth checking that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally during use, and that it can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the fabric of the stroller, since toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Look for a model with washable fabrics that stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, you should consider a model with adaptors or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and here then back again.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you're unsure of the best features to choose. On the internet, you'll get a wealth of information on safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to choose and use the right stroller for your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers and carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.