Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies makes it easy to carry your little one when you're on the move. It's a great method to move around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Find products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat, so you won't need to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers which are useful for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will secure your child's safety. You should look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. 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 come with car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants making them a great choice for families who take public transportation or rideshares. If you intend to use the stroller on occasion you may want an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and other features.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. These accidents are rare but they can happen. You do not want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's a method of carrying all the things you need for your family's needs on the go including food, diapers, toys and more. It's crucial to pick a stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and other clothes. If you're planning to use your baby stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
A lot of the top baby strollers have many storage options built-in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in the form of tray, pockets and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to make room for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with an insulated bottle pocket and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. These aren't standard features on every stroller, but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others come with a universal attachment to make them compatible with most get more info strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is useful as it will help you stay hydrated during your walks and also keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers available, and you need to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that can fold easily into your car, or one with large wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. 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 have removable fabric covers that are machine washable, which is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other messes. Consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include an reclining chair as well as a footrest so your baby can relax while you are out and out and.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some even come with an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is color. If you're one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents However, with all the choices available it can be difficult to determine which stroller is the best one for you. The tips above can help you narrow down your options, so that you can find the perfect stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in reviewing 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby on a walk or shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standard that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that's low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you put your child in or out. The seat should be secured using a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, which could cause the stroller to tip backward. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of objects that could get caught in fingers of children or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever is not accessible to children.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding 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 recommended to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Look for a model with washable fabrics that can stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirty footprints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be safely taken from the car to stroller and back.
If you're not sure which features to choose, a certified safety professional can assist. You can also find lots of information on safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children getting hurt in strollers and carriers.