Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your child while you're on the go. Aside from giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to be without getting overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Find products that are large and come with a seat that is able to be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet, travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's the place where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the side of your seat, so you don't have to worry if it falls off when you are moving. Some strollers for jogging have passenger stow pockets, which are handy for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. 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 for adults to fasten and difficult for children to remove. It is essential 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 good option for families who take public transport. However, if you plan to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crevices that could pinch little fingers. Although these accidents aren't common but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child an injury to the fingertip. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it fits into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a way to transport your child. It's also a great way to transport all the items you need for your entire family, such as diapers, toys, food and more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your baby stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket could be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example features a large storage basket as well as a sunshade which is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple close-seam fold that is easy to manage using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for food items.
You can also find storage options in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While they're not a standard feature of all strollers but they are an excellent method of keeping your stroller tidy and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others feature an universal attachment, to make them compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other storage options to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, like baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your child, and also ensures that your hands are free.
Style and Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market and it's essential to decide which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with large wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you intend to use it, and do you want an easy-to-clean stroller? clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers for fabric that can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have an reclining chair as well as a footrest so your baby can take a nap while you're out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who want a stroller to grow with them. These are great options for babies, since they come with an infant seat that can be used immediately. Some have a bassinet option for newborns and some allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Another thing to think about is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of pink and blue, and if you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a stroller that is neutral that is more adaptable and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a must for all new parents however, with the many choices available it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow down your options to choose the right stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in studying 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to know that your stroller is secure, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material 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 put your child in or out. The seat should also be securely fastened with the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. Make sure the stroller is free of any parts that can pinch a child’s fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within the reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism 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. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the check here manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that will stand up to baby food and snot, as well as muddy footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, consider choosing one with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow your child to be safe taken from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you're unsure of which features to select. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to buckle your child in every time, even when they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.