Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your child when you're on the move. In addition to giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you need to be without being burdened by too much gear.
Find full-size products that fit infants with a seat that reclines almost flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features because it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. You should find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with a different method of relaxing.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side and you don't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't fall and spill their drinks when they move.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that secures at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to test the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or come with car seat frames. This makes them an excellent choice for families that use public transport. If you intend to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and other features.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks and crannies which could irritate little fingers. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and you don't want to gift your child an injury to the fingertip. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is much more than a means to transport your child. It's a means to carry all the items you require to take with you on the go, including food, diapers toys, and much more. It's crucial to pick a stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on longer walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothing and water bottles. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for short trips around town, then a smaller storage basket may be enough.
A majority of the top baby strollers have plenty of storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with an ample storage basket, a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick and seamless fold that's easy to handle using just one hand when carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available in pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. Although they're not the standard features of every stroller however, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific models of strollers, whereas others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is also an excellent feature as it will help you stay hydrated on your strolls and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market and you must choose which features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold up and put in your car, or do you need one with larger wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How long will you use it? Do you want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills and other dirt. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with a reclining seat and the footrest to allow your baby to relax in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who want a stroller that grows with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some bassinets are designed for newborns while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you are one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents however, with the many options available, it can be hard to know which type of stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the perfect stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household here 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 children aged 7 and below.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you want to be sure that the stroller you select is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover construction, material, performance and safety warnings.
Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have an expansive base to ensure that it doesn't tip over easily when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with a belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, as this could cause the stroller to tip backward. Keep the stroller clear of any parts that can make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within reach of young children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, think about getting one with adaptors or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow your child to be securely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you are unsure of the features you should choose. Online, you can get a wealth of information about safe stroller use. This includes tips on how to select and use the right stroller for you and your family. Be sure to secure your child every time you are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children getting injured by strollers or carriers.