Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to easily carry your child when you're on the move. Apart from giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Find full-size products that fit infants with a reclined seat that is almost flat (newborns still need neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features since it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who do not 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 a child tray which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have a tray that is attached to the side of your seat so you aren't worried whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't spill their drinks while they walk.
It is also important to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that secures at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to remove for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or come with car frame seats. This makes them a great option for families who use public transport. If you only plan to use the stroller occasionally it is possible to choose one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges, and any other nooks or crevices that could cause little fingers to be snagged. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You do not want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Also, be aware of the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's safe to put in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is much more than a means to transport your baby. It's also a great way to carry all the things you require for your entire family, including diapers food, toys, and more. This is why it's crucial to select a stroller that has ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on long walks as your child becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothing and water bottles. If you intend to use your baby stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.
Many of the best baby strollers have many storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance has an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It has a fast, nearly seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby, prams or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of pockets, trays and other accessories. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to make room for the essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While they're not the standard features of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, whereas others feature an attachment that is universal to make them compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, such as toys or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is useful as it will help you stay hydrated during your strolls and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many types of strollers to choose from, and you need to decide what features are important to you. For instance, do need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold down and take into your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to maneuver over bumpy streets? How long will you use it? Do you need one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other dirt. Consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. These are excellent options for babies, since they come with an infant seat that can be used immediately. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to think about. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you may want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents, but with so many choices available it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is right for you. The tips above will help you narrow your options to choose the perfect stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing household products. She has 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child to a walk or shopping, you want to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material performance, and safety warnings.
Find a seat with frames that are low and have a wide base, so that it won't slide over when you remove or put your child. The seat should also be securely fastened with an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can be a danger to children's fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is kept out of the reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow 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 making messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that will stand up to food spills, snot and dirty footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat with your stroller, you should consider one with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will enable your child to be safely transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you're unsure of the features you should choose. There's also a wealth of information about safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure 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 who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.