Don't Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerA baby stroller allows you to easily carry your child when you're out on the go. Aside from giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you want to go without being weighed down by too much gear.
Look for full-size products that can accommodate infants, with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some have the option of a bassinet or travel system, or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend most of his time in it. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child 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 feature stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The top models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side and you don't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some strollers for jogging come with pockets for passengers that are great for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system, which will help keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to take off. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with an infant car seat making them a great choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride shares. If you only plan to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer one that is lightweight and has less bells, whistles and other features.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, and any other nooks or crannies which could irritate little fingers. Although these accidents aren't common however, they do happen and you don't want your child an injury to the fingertip. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great way to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers, toys, food and more. It is essential to choose a stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be using your stroller for long walks as your child becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. If you're planning to use your stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket might be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies have lots of storage options built into them. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's easy to manage using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for groceries.
There are storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to make room for necessities such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. While these aren't a standard feature of all strollers but they are an excellent method of keeping your stroller neat and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others have an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
You can also search for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as wipes or toys without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is an excellent feature as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers to choose from and you must choose which features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold up and put in your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to maneuver over bumpy streets? How long will you use it? Do you want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be washed in the machine, which is a great option if you're susceptible to spills or other dirt. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families who want a stroller to grow with them. These are excellent options for infants, since they include an infant seat more info that can be used right away. Some have a bassinet for newborns while others let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. If you're one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. You could also consider choosing a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and can be paired with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are so many kinds of strollers that it can be difficult to pick the right one. These tips will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the right stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of 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 who are 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or out. The seat should be secured with an elastic crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other items on the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is best to keep the stroller clear of objects that could get caught in fingers of children or create the risk of choking Be sure to check that the brake lever isn't accessible to children.
It's important to confirm whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for making mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider one with adaptors that are included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're unsure which features to pick an expert in safety can assist. You can also find lots of information regarding safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. Be sure to buckle your child in every time, even when they are seated in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.