Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your baby when you're out on the move. In addition to giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to be without being weighed down by too much equipment.
Look for full-size products that can accommodate infants, with a reclined seat that is nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most essential features as it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. You should find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats have reclines that are particularly useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have stowable footrests to provide your baby with another method of relaxing.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray that can be useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat and you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks while they walk.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system, which will keep your child secure. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to fasten for adults, and difficult to take off for children. 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 are compatible with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them a great option for families who take public transportation. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times you may want a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take the time to examine the hinges and any other nooks and crannies 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 safe to put in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means to carry your baby. 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. This is why it's crucial to select a stroller that has ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store snacks, a diaper bag and other clothes. If you're planning to use your stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have many storage options built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has a large storage basket and a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
There are storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zipper-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pocket to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on all strollers, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items like baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is an important feature as it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your child and helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market, and it's important to determine what 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 need one with more wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How long will you be using it? Do you need one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings that are machine washable this is a fantastic feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include the option of reclining chairs and an ottoman so that your child can relax while you are out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used from day one. Some come with a bassinet for babies, while some allow you to add an infant car website seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to consider. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their infants but there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to pick the right one. The tips above can help narrow your options, so that you can find the perfect stroller that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience studying and testing household products. She holds 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 want to be confident that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standards, that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Find a seat with an elongated frame and a broad base, so that it won't fall over when you take or place your child. The seat should be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller backward. Keep the stroller free of any components that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of toddlers.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
Another important consideration is how it is easy to clean the fabric of the stroller, as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and dirty prints.
Think about buying a stroller which includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you are unsure of the features you should choose. On the internet, you'll find a lot of information regarding safe stroller use. This includes information on how to choose and use the best stroller for you and your family. Remember to buckle up your child every time even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.