Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your baby when 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 weighed down by too much equipment.
Find products that are large enough to can accommodate infants, with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns still need neck support). Some of them 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 the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines, which are especially helpful for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with another method of relaxing.
Most strollers offer a child tray that can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have a tray that is attached to the side of your seat so that you don't have to worry about it falling off when you are moving. Some strollers for jogging come with pockets for passengers which are useful for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy to access for children, so they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system, which will keep your child secure. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to remove for children. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or have car frame seats. This makes them an excellent choice for families that use public transportation. If you intend to use your stroller only often, you might prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges and other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's a method of carrying all the things you need to take with you on the go including diapers, food toys, and much more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if be taking your stroller on long walks as your child grows into a toddler, you'll need more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. If you're planning to use your baby stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag may be sufficient.
A majority of the top strollers for babies come with plenty of storage options built in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes that are one-step. 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 a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to make room for the essentials 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 option for storage is a stroller caddy. While these aren't a standard feature of every stroller, they can be a great way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others come with an attachment that is universal to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other storage options to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items like baby wipes or toys and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful because it can help you stay hydrated on your strolls and also keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers available and you have to decide what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller to fold and fit into your car, or one with large wheels that can assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you intend to use it for, and do you want a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that are machine washable this is a fantastic feature to have if you're prone to spills or other dirt. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can take a nap while you're out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. They're a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat and can be used from day one. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a must for all new parents however, with the many options available it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is right for you. These tips can help narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller for your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating 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 who are 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have a broad base, so that it won't tip over easily when you remove or put your child. The seat should also be secured using the crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this may make the stroller go backwards. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can be a danger to children's fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of toddlers.
It's worth checking whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for their messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics to withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
If you plan to use a car seat with your stroller, you should consider here a model with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will allow your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're unsure of which features to pick, a certified safety expert can be of assistance. On the internet, you can get a wealth of information about safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to select and use the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time you are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.