Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a stroller for your baby is a great option to get your child. It's a great way to move around without having to carry too much gear.
Look for products that are full-sized and include a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features since it's the place where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models come with a tray that is attached to the side of your seat, so you don't have to worry whether it falls off while you are moving. Some
jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow that are great for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy to access for children, so they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child's safety. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to take off for children. It's important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants making them an ideal choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride share. If you intend to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents aren't common however,
Running pram they do happen and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure it fits inside your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means to transport your baby. It's a means to carry all the items you require for your family's needs on the go including food, diapers, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to choose a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and other clothes. On the other side, if you'll only be using your baby stroller for shorter trips around town, smaller storage baskets might be enough.
Many of the best baby strollers include many storage features built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It folds quickly and almost seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zip-top bag that is ideal for your stroller and allows you to keep things like water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pocket to keep small items such as keys and wallet in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others include universal attachments, making them compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for side nettings or pockets to store small items like toys or wipes without taking up valuable basket space. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child and keeps your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market and you have to choose which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car or with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you intend to use it for, and do you want an easy-to-clean stroller? keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic feature to have if you're prone to spills or other dirt. Consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are excellent options for newborns, as they include a baby seat and can be used immediately. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Color is another factor to think about. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
A baby stroller is essential for all new parents however, with the many options available, it can be hard to know which type of stroller is right for you. The tips above can help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the ideal stroller that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you'll want to be confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and an expansive base, so that it won't slide over when you put or remove your child. The seat should also be secured using a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this could cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can pinch a child’s fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, make sure the brake lever is kept out of reach of young children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for making mess. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle baby food, snot, and
lightweight stroller dirty prints.
If you intend to use a car seat with your stroller, you should consider a model with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.