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 method to move around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Choose items that are big enough and come with a seat that is able to be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. You should find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are beneficial for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with a different way to relax.
The majority of strollers come with an infant tray that can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat, so you won't be concerned about it falling over while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow which are useful for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child's position. You should look for a five-point safety harness 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 important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are an ideal choice for families who take public transportation or ride shares. However, if you plan to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges and any other places where tiny fingers could be snared. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure that it will fit inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a way to carry your baby. It's a way to carry all the items you require to take with you on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. It's crucial to pick a stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For example, if you'll be taking your stroller on extended walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, additional clothes and water bottles. If you intend to use your baby stroller for short excursions around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.
Many of the top baby strollers come with many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an ample storage basket and a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple, near-seamless fold that's easy to manage with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you store essentials such as snacks, water, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While they're not a standard feature of every stroller, they can be a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with a universal attachment to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since it allows you to stay hydrated while strolling with your baby and keeps your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many different types of strollers on the market and it's crucial to determine what features are important to you. For example, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold up and carry into your car or do you require one with more wheels to maneuver over bumpy roads? How long do you intend to use it, and do you need a stroller that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great option for those who you are prone to spills and other messes. 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.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, think about a travel system. They are a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some come with a bassinet for babies, while some allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you're one those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. Consider a neutral, more versatile stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants however, there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be a challenge to choose the right one. These tips will help you narrow your choices, so you can select the best stroller for your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you want to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction, performance and safety warnings.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat low in the frame, so that it isn't likely to tip over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured with pushchairs a belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tip backward. It's best to ensure that the stroller is free of objects that could get caught in the fingers of a child or create the risk of choking Be sure to check that the brake lever isn't in the reach of children.
It is important to verify whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from accidentally folding while in 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 provide you with any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for making messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that will stand up to baby food, snot and dirty footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that 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.
If you're unsure of which features to select an expert in safety can be of assistance. Online, you can find a lot of information regarding safe stroller use. This includes information on how to choose and use the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times, including when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely fastened. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.