Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a baby stroller is a great option to get your child. It's a great way to move around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Look for products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system, or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with another option to relax.
The majority of strollers have a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so you do not have to be concerned if it falls off when you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't spill their drinks while moving.
You should also look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will secure your child in place. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to unbuckle for children. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are an ideal choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride shares. If you plan to only use the stroller on occasion you may want a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges and other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these accidents aren't common, they do happen, and you don't want to gift your child a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold and ensure that it will fit in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great option to carry all the things you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers, toys, food and more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and additional clothes. If you plan to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
A lot of the best baby strollers include many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an ample storage basket, a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It folds quickly and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
There are also storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For example website the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller, allowing room for essentials like water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. They're not standard features on every stroller but they are a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
Also, look for side nettings or pockets to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful because it can help you stay hydrated on your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you must decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or one with large wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How many hours will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings that can be washed in the machine, which is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller that will grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. These are a great option for babies since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some come with a bassinet for newborns while others let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Color is another thing to think about. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. You can also consider opting for a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and can be paired with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby however, there are so many types of strollers that it is difficult to pick the right one. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree from applied mathematics 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
If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you need to be sure that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Look for a seat with a low frame and an expansive base to ensure that it doesn't slide over when you remove or put your child. The seat should also be secured using an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items on the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is kept out of the reach of children.
It is important to verify that 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. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the fabric of the stroller, because toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics to withstand the snot, baby food, and dirt-stained prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, consider choosing a model with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
A certified safety expert can help you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. You can also find lots of information regarding safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child every time, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.