Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is a great way to transport your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to be without getting burdened by too much gear.
Find items that are big enough and have a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features since it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. It is important to choose an easy, spacious seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and take a break. Some seats recline, which is especially beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with a different option to relax.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models come with a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so that you do not have to be concerned if it falls off when you move. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers that are great for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't spill their drinks while moving.
You should also examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which can help keep your child's safety. You'll want to look 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 take off for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. 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 and are ideal for families who take public transportation or rideshares. If you only plan to use the stroller for a few times, you might prefer a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, and any other nooks or crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these accidents aren't common but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and make sure it fits inside your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a method to carry your baby. It's a means to carry all the things you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food, toys and more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store diaper bags, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
Many of the best baby strollers have plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with an enormous storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
You can also find storage options in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallet within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While they're not an essential feature of every stroller however, they can be a great way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is an excellent feature as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and also keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market, and it's important to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you plan to use it, and do you need a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine, which is a great feature to have if you're susceptible to spills or other dirt. Consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models include a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can rest while you are out and out website and.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are great options for infants, since they include an infant seat and can be used as soon as. Some come with a bassinet for newborns while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to think about. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you may prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and will look great with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a necessity for new parents however, with the many options available it can be difficult to know which type of stroller is the best one for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your options to find the best stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. She has a degree in 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 aged 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is secure regardless of whether you're taking the baby on a walk or shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have a broad base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you put or remove your child. The seat should also be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of objects that could get caught in fingers of children or create the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever is not accessible to a toddler.
It's worth checking whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from accidentally folding while in use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric, because toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Look for a model with washable fabrics that can stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirt-covered footprints.
Think about buying a stroller which includes adaptors or will be used with adaptors purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.
A certified safety expert can help you if you are unsure of the features you should choose. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are 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.