Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller makes it easy to carry your child while you're on the go. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you want to go without being burdened by too much equipment.
Look for products that are full-sized and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features since it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially helpful for newborns and infants who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different way.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have a tray that attaches to the seat's side and you don't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities come with pockets for passengers which are useful for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't fall and spill their drinks while they walk.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child safe. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are ideal for families who use public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times, you might prefer one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, take the time to examine the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where little fingers may be snagged. While these accidents are rare however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure that it will fit in your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is much more than just a way to carry your baby. It's also a great method to transport all the items you require for your entire family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to select a stroller that has ample storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for long walks as your child grows into a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, extra clothes and water bottles. On the other the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for shorter trips around town, an a smaller storage basket might be enough.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example features an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It has a fast and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that is perfect for your stroller to click here make room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. Although they're not the standard features of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others come with an universal attachment, to make them compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other storage options to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers to choose from and you must decide what features are important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and carry into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How long do you plan to use it for, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider include a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. These are a great option for newborns since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to consider. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller, which is more versatile and will look great with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants however, there are a myriad of types of strollers 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 holds 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 below.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe regardless of 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 standard which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a seat that has an elongated frame and an expansive base so that it won't slide over when you take or place your child. The seat should be secured using an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this could cause the stroller tip backward. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of children.
It's worth checking that the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding when in use, and can be locked by pressing the handlebar or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for their mess. Choose a stroller 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 be used with adaptors purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. 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 choose, a certified safety professional can help. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller usage online and includes tips for choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are secured. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children being injured by strollers or carriers.