Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a stroller for your baby is a great way to transport your child. Aside from giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Choose products that are large and have a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend most of his time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is particularly useful for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray which is useful for storing snacks and toys. The most effective models have the tray that is attached to the side of your seat, so you aren't worried if it falls off when you are moving. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers that are great for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, which will keep your child safe. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat and are ideal for families who take public transportation or rideshares. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may want an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller to inspect the hinges, and any other nooks or crevices which could irritate little fingers. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You do not want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it's safe to put in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great method to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and much more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for long walks as your child becomes a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, additional clothes and water bottles. If you intend to use your baby stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller basket could be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller, allowing room for necessities such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallet in reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller, but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, whereas others have an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, like toys or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a useful feature because it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child, and also keeps your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many types of strollers on the market and you have to choose 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 will you be using it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are prone to spills and other mess. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining chair and an ottoman so that your child can rest while you are out and out and.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families who need a stroller to grow with them. They're a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Color is another aspect to take into consideration. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a neutral-colored stroller which is more flexible and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a must for all new parents, Pushchairs & Prams UK but with so many options to choose from it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is right for you. The tips above can help narrow your choices, so you can select the best stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree from mechanical engineering and applied mathematics, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three kids 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is secure whether you're taking your baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It should meet minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base so that it won't slide over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured by an elastic crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this could cause the stroller backward. Keep the stroller clear of any components that could pinch a child’s fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of 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 dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to take into consideration, as children and babies are notorious for their messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, think about getting an option that has adaptors included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be securely taken from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you in the event that you are not sure of the features you should choose. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they're sitting in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.