Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving the baby stroller is a great way to get your child. Aside from giving your back a break, it also helps you get there where you need to be without getting burdened by too much gear.
Look for full-size products that can accommodate infants, with a reclined seat that is nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some have 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 where your baby will spend a lot of time. You should find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and take a break. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
A majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches 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 passengers to stow which are useful for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach and they won't fall and spill their drinks while they walk.
It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, which will help keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple for adults to fasten and difficult for children to take off. It is 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 come with car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat making them ideal for families who take public transportation or rideshares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other nooks and crannies that little fingers may be snagged. These incidents are not common, but they do happen. You do not want your child to be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than a means to transport your baby. It's a method of carrying everything you need for your family's needs on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on long walks as your child develops into a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, extra clothing and water bottles. On the other side, if you'll only use your stroller for shorter trips around town, smaller storage baskets might suffice.
Many of the best strollers for babies have many storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It folds quickly and seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in pockets, trays and other accessories. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller, allowing room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. While these aren't an essential feature of all strollers however, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding 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.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up valuable basket space. A cup holder is useful since it can aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market and it's crucial to choose which features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold down and take into your car, or do you need one Push Chairs & Prams with more wheels to navigate bumpy streets? How long do you expect to use it, and do you need a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, you should consider a travel system. These are great options for newborns, as they include a baby seat that can be used as soon as. Some even come with the option of a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is color. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be difficult to choose the right one. The tips above can help narrow your choices, so you can find the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics 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'll want to ensure that your stroller is secure, whether you're taking the baby on a walk or shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standards, that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured using an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, which can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Keep the stroller clear of any parts that can pinch a child’s fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within reach of young children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for their mess. Look for a model with washable fabrics that stand up to food spills and snot, as well as muddy footprints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can accommodate the adaptors you purchase separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and return to the car.
If you're not sure which features to pick an expert in safety can assist. There's also a wealth of information about safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing 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 ensure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.