Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to easily carry your child while you're on the go. It's a great method to get around without having carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are large enough to accommodate infants with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns still need neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your child with a option to relax.
The majority of strollers have a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The top models have the tray that is attached to the side of the seat so you don't be concerned about it falling off while moving. Some strollers for jogging have passenger stow pockets, which are handy to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't spill their drinks when they move.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will keep your child safe. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to take off for children. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants making them an ideal choice for families who use public transportation or ride shares. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times you may want a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
When you are shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies that tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to gift your child an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure that it will fit in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great method to transport all the things you require for your entire family, including diapers food, toys, and more. It's important to select a stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and extra clothes. On the other side, if you'll only be using your stroller for shorter trips around town, an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
A lot of the top baby strollers have many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example features a large storage basket and 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.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you store essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallets in reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller but they're a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific models of strollers, while some come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as wipes or toys without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is useful as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and also keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many different types of strollers on the market and it's crucial to choose which features are important to you. For instance, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold and put in your car, or do you need one with larger wheels to get over bumpy roads? How long do you intend to use it, and do you need an easy-to-clean stroller? clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers which can be washed by a machine, which is a great option if you're prone to spills or other dirt. Other features worth considering include a sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models include a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and out and.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. These are a great option for newborns since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for infants, while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another thing to think about. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller which is more flexible and looks good with any outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their baby however, there are so many kinds of strollers that it can be a challenge to pick the right one. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your choices so that you can choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing 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, aged 7 and below.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you place your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured using the crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, which can cause the stroller to tip backward. It is recommended to keep the stroller free of objects that could get caught in the fingers of a child or create the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever is not in the reach of children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the fabric of the stroller, since toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be safely transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you are unsure of the features you should choose. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are Pushchairs & Prams securely fastened. Children in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.