Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move, a stroller for your baby is a great way to get your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Find products that are large enough to accommodate infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are helpful for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray, which can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models come with an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access for children, which means they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
It is also important 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 should be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child inside it, both opened and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or have car frame seats. This makes them an excellent option for families who take public transport. If you only plan to use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at the hinges and any other places where little fingers might be pinched. These incidents are not common, but they do happen. You don't want your child to be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a method to carry your baby. It's a method of carrying all the items you require to take with you on the go, including food, diapers toys, and more. It is essential to choose the 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 using your stroller for long walks as your child develops into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothes and water bottles. If you intend to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with lots of storage options built in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes with one step. It also comes with a quick, near-seamless fold that's easy to manage with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
You can also find storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to provide space for necessities such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While they're not a standard feature of all strollers however, they can be a great way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with a universal attachment to make them compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like wipes or toys without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your child, and also helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market and you must choose which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you intend to use it, and do you want a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that are machine washable and is a great option if you're here prone to spills or other dirt. Other features to consider are a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to relax in while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great option for families who need a stroller that grows with them. They are a great option for babies, since they include an infant seat that can be used as soon as. Some come with a bassinet for babies, while some let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and looks good with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a necessity for new parents However, with all the choices available, it can be hard to decide which stroller is the best one for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your options to find the best stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied math and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City, with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you need to feel confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards that cover material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that's low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or out of it. The seat should be securely fastened with an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. It is recommended to keep the stroller free of any parts that could irritate a child's fingers or pose the risk of choking, and always check the brake lever isn't within reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it's in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Look for a model with washable fabrics that stand up to food spills and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you're unsure of the best features to choose. There's also a wealth of information about safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.