Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're on the move, a baby stroller is a great way to take your child. It's a great way to get around without having to carry too much gear.
Find full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests which allow your child to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers come with an infant tray that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models have the tray that is attached to the side of the seat, so you won't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't drop their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. You should look for a five-point safety harness secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both opened and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants, which makes them ideal for families who utilize public transportation or ride share. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally it is possible to choose an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and features.
When shopping for a stroller to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these accidents aren't common however, they do happen and you don't want to give your child a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure it fits inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great option to transport all the things you'll need for your whole family, including diapers food, toys, and much more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to store everything in order.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
Many of the best baby strollers come with plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also has a quick and seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as snacks, water and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller but they are a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others feature an universal attachment, to make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also search for side nettings or pockets to store small items like toys or wipes without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is useful because it can aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market and it's crucial to choose which features are most important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold and put in your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy roads? How long do you intend to use it for, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers for fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also 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 looking for a stroller that can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to take into consideration. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue shades, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller that is neutral which is more flexible and will look great with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are so many types of strollers that it is difficult to pick the right one. These tips can help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing household products. She has 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 children aged 7 and below.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or going out shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials performance, safety and performance warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat that is low in the frame so that it isn't likely to tip over when you insert your child in or out. The seat should also be securely fastened with a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, which could cause the stroller slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any components that could be a danger to children's fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, make sure the brake lever is not within reach of children.
It is important to verify whether the stroller has a locking mechanism that prevents it from accidentally folding when in use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for causing messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
If you intend to use a car seat with your stroller, you should consider one that has adaptors included or that here can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be safe transferred from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times, including when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children getting hurt in strollers and carriers.