Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move, a baby stroller is an ideal way to transport your child. It's a great method to move around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are large enough to accommodate infants with a reclined seat that is 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 the majority of his time in it. It is important to choose a comfortable, wide seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats recline, which is especially beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so you don't have to worry if it falls off when you move. Some jogging strollers have passenger stow pockets, which are handy for storing sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system, which will keep your child safe. You should look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to remove for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants, which makes them ideal for families who take public transportation or rideshares. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally you may want a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other nooks and crannies that little fingers might be pinched. These incidents are not common, but they do happen. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a way to transport your child. It's a way to carry everything you need for your family on-the-go, including food, diapers toys, and more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if use your stroller for long walks as your child develops into an adult, you'll require more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, additional clothes and water bottles. If you intend to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
Many of the top baby strollers have lots of storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance features a large storage basket, a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick close-seam fold that is easy to handle with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of tray, pockets and other accessories. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to provide space for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallet within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on every stroller, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others include universal attachments, making them compatible with most strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, such as toys or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a nice feature to have since it can help you stay hydrated during your strolls and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and it's essential to choose which features are most important to you. For instance, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold and carry into your car or do you require one with more wheels to maneuver over bumpy roads? How long will you be using it? Do you want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine, which is a great feature to have if you're prone to spills or other mess. You might want to consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can rest while you are out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, consider a travel system. They're a great choice for newborns since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some have the option of a bassinet for infants and some allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another thing to take into consideration. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller with neutral colors, which is more versatile and looks good with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a baby stroller, but there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it can be difficult to select the best one. The tips above will help you narrow down your options to choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three kids 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is secure regardless of whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or going out shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with frames that are low and have a wide base to ensure that it doesn't tip over easily when you take or place your child. The seat should be secured by a crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this can make the stroller go backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of reach of children.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
Another important consideration read more is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, because toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Choose a model that has washable fabric that can handle baby food, snot, and dirt-stained prints.
Consider buying a stroller that includes adaptors or will accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend 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 choose, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. On the internet, you'll find plenty of information on safe stroller usage. This includes advice on how to choose and use the right stroller for you and your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, even when they are seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.