Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a baby stroller is an ideal way to get your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you want to be without getting burdened by too much gear.
Find full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that reclines almost flat (newborns still require neck support). Some have the option of a bassinet or travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's where your child will spend a lot of time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is especially suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable footrests to provide your baby with another option to relax.
A majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side, so you won't have to worry about it falling off while moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities come with pockets for passengers which are useful for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't drop their drinks when they move.
You should also examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which can help keep your child's position. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test the stroller with your child inside it, both open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat and are a great choice for families who take public transportation or rideshares. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times, you might prefer a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where little fingers may be snagged. While these accidents are rare but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is much more than just a way to transport your baby. It's also a great method to carry all the things you'll need for your whole family, including diapers, toys, food and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store diaper bags, snacks and other clothes. On the other side, if you'll only use your stroller for a shorter trip around town, then a smaller storage basket may suffice.
A lot of the top baby strollers have many storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with a large storage basket and a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple, near-seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available in the form of pockets, trays and other accessories. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to make room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallet within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While they're not a standard feature of every stroller but they are a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is an important feature as it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your child, and also helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers available and it's crucial to determine which features are most important to you. For instance, do need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold down and carry into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy streets? How long will you be using it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills and other mess. Consider the sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include the option of reclining chairs and an ottoman so that your child can rest while you are out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, think about a travel system. These are a great option for infants as they typically come with an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns, while others allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you are one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Consider a neutral, more versatile stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their infants however, there are so many types of strollers available that it can be a challenge to pick the right one. The tips above can help narrow your choices, so you can choose the ideal stroller that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor website at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you need to feel confident that the stroller you select is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a seat with frames that are low and have an expansive base, so that it won't tip over easily when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured using a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this could cause the stroller tip backward. It's best to keep the stroller free of objects that could get caught in a child's fingers or pose a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't within reach of toddlers.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for making messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
Consider buying a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and then back.
If you're unsure which features to select, a certified safety professional can assist. You can also find lots of information on safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.