Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is an ideal way to get your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you want to be without getting weighed down by too much equipment.
Find products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features since it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. You should find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The most effective models have the tray that is attached to the back of your seat, so you aren't worried about it falling off when you move. Some strollers for jogging have passenger stow pockets which are useful for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. 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 remove for children. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both opened and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat making them a great choice for families who take public transportation or rideshares. If you intend to use your stroller just often, you might prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, as well as any other nooks or crevices which could irritate little fingers. Although these accidents are rare, they can happen. You don't want your child be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits in your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a way to carry your baby. It's a method of carrying all the things you need to take with you on the go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For example, if you'll be taking your stroller on long walks as your child becomes a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional water bottles and clothes. On the other side, if you'll only be using your baby stroller for short trips around town, smaller storage baskets might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an enormous storage basket as well as a sunshade which is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It has a fast, nearly seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
You can also find storage options in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to make room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with an insulated bottle pocket and exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. These aren't features that are standard on all strollers, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with an attachment that is universal to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder can be a useful feature because it lets you remain hydrated while strolling with your child, and also ensures that your hands are free.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and take into your car or do you require one with more wheels to navigate bumpy streets? How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that are machine washable and is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include the sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have a reclining seat and an extra footrest for your child to rest in while you're out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. They're a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for babies, while some let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a neutral-colored stroller which is more flexible and will look great with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants, but best pushchairs there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be a challenge to pick the right one. These tips can help narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller for your lifestyle and needs.
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 children who are 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured using the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tip backward. It's best to ensure that the stroller is free of parts that could pinch the fingers of a child or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't in the reach of toddlers.
It's important to confirm that the stroller is equipped with an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy it is to clean the fabric of the stroller, because toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that will stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirty footprints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and then back again.
If you're unsure which features to choose, a certified safety expert can help. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely fastened. Children in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.