Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move the baby stroller is a great way to get your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to be without being burdened by too much equipment.
Find items that are big enough and come with a seat that is able to be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend a lot of time in it. It is important to choose an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and unwind. 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 which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have a tray that attaches to the side of the seat and you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some strollers for jogging come with pockets for passengers, which are handy to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks while they walk.
It is also important to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child's safety. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to remove. 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 are compatible with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them an excellent option for families who take public transportation. However, if you plan to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take the time to examine the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies that little fingers may be snagged. While these accidents are rare but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child an amputation of the fingertip. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's also a great method to transport all the things you need for your entire family, including diapers as well as food, toys and much more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on long walks as your child becomes a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothing and water bottles. On the other side, if you'll only be using your stroller for short trips around town, smaller storage baskets might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with plenty of storage options built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU includes a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes with one step. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
There are storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has an insulated bottle pocket and external slip pockets that keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. They're not standard features on all strollers, but they're a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others feature an universal attachment, so that they're compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is an excellent feature because it can aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and also keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market, and you need to decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or one with large wheels that can assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it for, and do you want a stroller that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with get more info removable covers for fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills and other messes. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that 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 difficult to choose the right one. The tips above will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the perfect stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in studying and testing household products. She has a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics 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'll want to know that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame, so that it isn't likely to tip over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured with an elastic crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. It's best to keep the stroller free of any parts that could irritate fingers of children or create the risk of choking Be sure to check that the brake lever isn't within reach of children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric because toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle the snot, baby food, and dirty prints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely transported from the car to stroller and back.
If you're not sure which features to choose an expert in safety can be of assistance. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times you are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children being injured by strollers or carriers.