Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your child 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 go without being weighed down by too much gear.
Look for items that are big enough and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is particularly suitable for infants and babies who do not yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
Most strollers offer an infant tray, which can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The most effective models have the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so that you aren't worried about it falling off when you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't spill their drinks when they move.
You'll also want to take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child in place. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to fasten for adults, and difficult to take off for children. It is important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or have car frame seats. This makes them a great choice for families that use public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, take the time to examine the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and you don't want to gift your child a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure that it will fit in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a method to carry your baby. It's also a great option to transport all the items you require for your entire family, such as diapers, toys, food and much more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart may be sufficient.
Many of the best baby strollers have plenty of storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU includes a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes with one step. It folds quickly and almost seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of pockets, trays and other accessories. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to make room for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. While they're not a standard feature of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
Other storage options to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, like baby wipes or toys, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a useful feature because it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your child and helps keep your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you have to decide what features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and carry into your car or do you require one with larger wheels to navigate bumpy streets? How long do you expect to use it for, and do you need a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that can be washed in the machine this is a fantastic option if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include the option of reclining chairs and a footrest so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great option for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. They're a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors which is more flexible and will look great with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a necessity for new parents However, with all pushchairs uk the options available it can be difficult to determine which stroller is right for you. These tips can help you narrow down your options so that you can select the best stroller that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you'll want to be sure that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover construction, material performance, safety and performance warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that's low in the frame so it won't easily tip over when you place your child in or out. The seat should be secured using an elastic belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller clear of any components that could pinch a child’s fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for making mess. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle the snot, baby food, and dirt-stained prints.
Think about buying a stroller which 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 which features to pick, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. Online, you can find a lot of information on safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to select and use the best stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.