Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is an ideal way to transport your child. It's a great method to get around without having carry a lot of gear.
Find full-size products that fit infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. You should find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children, which can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The top models have a tray that attaches to the side of the seat and you don't be concerned about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will secure your child's position. You should look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to unbuckle. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them a great choice for families that use public transport. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take the time to examine the hinges and other places where little fingers may be snagged. Although these accidents are rare, they can happen. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and make sure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your child. It's a way to carry all the things you need for your family's needs on the go, including diapers, food toys, and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag might be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with plenty of storage options built in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and one-step brakes. It also features a simple, near-seamless fold that's easy to manage using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
There are also storage options in the form pockets, trays, and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as external slip pockets that keep small items such as keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. These aren't standard features on every stroller, but they can be an excellent method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful because it can aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers available and it's crucial to choose which features are most important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and take into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy streets? How long do you intend to use it for, and do you need a stroller 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 if you are susceptible to spills or other dirt. You might want to consider a sun shade or a handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, you should consider a travel system. They are a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you're one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. Consider a neutral, more versatile stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents However, with all the options available it can be difficult to decide which stroller is the best one for you. These suggestions can help you narrow down your options, so that you can choose the ideal stroller for your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing 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 aged 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you'll want to be confident that here the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material, performance and safety warnings.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you place your child in or take them out. The seat should also be secured with an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this could cause the stroller to tilt backwards. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of any parts that could irritate fingers of children or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever is not within reach of a toddler.
It's worth checking that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or 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 also important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle infant food, snot and muddy prints.
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 your child to be securely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're not sure which features to select an expert in safety can help. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the best stroller for your family. And remember to secure your child every time, even when they are seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.