Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your child when you're on the move. It's a great way to move around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Find products that are full-sized 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
The seat of a stroller is important since your child will spend a lot of time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is particularly suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable footrests to provide your baby with another way to relax.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models come with an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access for children, which means they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's safety system, which will help keep your child secure. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them ideal for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use your stroller just occasionally, you may want an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks or crevices that could pinch little fingers. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want your child a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and make sure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your baby. It's a means to carry everything you need to take with you on the go including food, diapers toys, and much more. That's why it's important to pick a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For example, if you'll use your stroller for extended walks as your baby develops into an adult, you'll require more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra water bottles and clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with lots of storage options built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and one-step brakes. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as snacks, water and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as external slip pockets that keep keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. They're not standard features on every stroller but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others feature a universal attachment so that they're compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, such as baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is an important feature as it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child and keeps your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are many types of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it, and do you need a stroller that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic option if you're susceptible to spills and other messes. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Also, some models have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to relax in while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who want a stroller that grows with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some even come with an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns as well as others that allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Color is another thing to consider. If you're one those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents However, with all the choices available it can be a challenge to decide which stroller is right for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the perfect stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of check here experience evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree from 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 know that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards that cover the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should also be secured with the crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could pinch a child’s fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is kept out of the reach of toddlers.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when it is 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 provide you with any safety updates.
Another thing to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric, as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle baby food, snot, and muddy prints.
Consider buying a stroller that includes adaptors or will be used with adaptors purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you are unsure of the best features to choose. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times even when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.