Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a baby stroller is a great way to transport your child. It's a great way for you to get around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Find full-size products that can accommodate infants, with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important since your child will spend most of his time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is especially useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with another option to relax.
The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have the tray that is attached to the side of the seat and you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, meaning they won't spill their drinks while they walk.
You should also examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which can help keep your child's safety. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in 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 seat frames. This makes them a good choice for families that use public transportation. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you are shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other nooks and crannies that little fingers might be pinched. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child to be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a way to transport your baby. It's a way to carry everything you need to take with you on the go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. That's why it's important to select a stroller that has plenty of storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if be taking your stroller on longer walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, extra clothing and water bottles. If you plan to use your baby stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller basket could be enough.
A majority of the top strollers for babies have many storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with an enormous storage basket as well as a sunshade which can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick close-seam fold that is easy to manage with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for necessities such as snacks, water and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on all strollers, but they can be an excellent method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific models of strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also search for side nettings or pockets to store small things like wipes or toys without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is a nice feature to have as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market and it's crucial to decide which features are most 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 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 washed in the machine, which is a great option if you're prone to spills or other mess. You might want to consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also 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 which can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They are a great option for pushchairsandprams.uk infants, since they come with an infant seat that can be used right away. Some have a bassinet for babies, while some let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colors of pink and blue, and if you're one of them, you may prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a must for all new parents however, with the many choices available it can be difficult to know which type of stroller is the best one for you. The tips above can help you narrow down your options so that you can select the best stroller for your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in 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 aged 7 and below.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you'll want to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards that cover construction, material performance, safety and performance warnings.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and an expansive base to ensure that it doesn't tip over easily when you take or place your child. The seat should be securely fastened with a Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can be a danger to children's fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of reach of young children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that prevents it accidentally 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. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for their messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.
Consider buying a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and return to the car.
If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety expert can assist. Online, you can get a wealth of information about safe stroller use. This includes tips on how to select and use the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child every time you are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Children in strollers and carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.