Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a stroller for your baby is an ideal way to transport your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you need to be without being weighed down by too much gear.
Find products that are large enough to can accommodate infants, with a reclined seat that is nearly flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital because your baby will spend most of his time in it. It is essential to find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines that are particularly beneficial for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with a different option to relax.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side, so you won't have to worry about it falling off while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, that will keep your child secure. The ideal is a five-point harness that secures at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. It is essential to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them ideal for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. These incidents are not common, but they occur. You don't want your child to be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Pay attention to the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure that it will fit into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great option to carry all the things you'll need for your whole family, including diapers as well as food, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to choose a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For example, if you'll use your stroller for longer walks as your baby develops into an adult, you'll require more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothes and water bottles. On the other side, if you'll only use your stroller for a shorter trip around town, then an a smaller storage basket might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with lots of storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance has an enormous storage basket and a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It features a quick, nearly 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 tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly in your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While they're not an essential feature of every stroller, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, while others have an attachment that is universal to make them compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys, without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is also a nice feature to have because it can aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers to choose from, and you need to choose which features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold and carry into your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to maneuver over bumpy sidewalks? How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic feature to have if you're prone to spills or other dirt. Other features worth considering include a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with the option of reclining chairs and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is the color. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants, but there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it can be a challenge to select the best one. These tips will help you narrow your options so that you can choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. She has a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or going out shopping. It should meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or out. The seat should be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items on the handles, which could cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of any parts that could irritate the fingers of a child or create an choking risk and ensure that the brake lever is not in the reach of a toddler.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars, or the dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric, because toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that can be able to withstand baby food, snot and dirt-covered footprints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside click here your stroller, think about getting one with adaptors or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and then back again.
If you're not sure which features to pick an expert in safety can help. There's also a wealth of information on safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times you are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Children in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.