Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a baby stroller is a great option to take your child. It's a great way to move around without having to carry a lot of gear.
Look for products that are large and include a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats have reclines, which are especially helpful for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different manner.
Most strollers offer an infant tray, which can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so you do not have to be concerned about it falling off when you move. Some strollers for jogging have passenger stow pockets that are great to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will keep your child secure. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple 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 easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants, which makes them ideal for families who take public transportation or rideshares. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to inspect the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies which could irritate little fingers. These incidents are not common, but they occur. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great way to transport all the things you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers food, toys, and much more. It's crucial to pick the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for extended walks as your baby develops into an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothing and water bottles. If you plan to use your baby stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
A majority of the top baby strollers have plenty of storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It features a quick and almost seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in the form of pockets, trays and other accessories. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as outside slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. They're not standard features on every stroller, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
Other storage options to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, like baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is useful as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your strolls and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many kinds of strollers available and it's essential to decide which features are most important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and carry into your car, or do you need one with larger wheels to maneuver over bumpy streets? How long will you be using it? Do you need one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with the option of reclining chairs and a footrest so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great option for families who want a stroller that grows with them. These are a great option for infants as they typically come with an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for newborns while others let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another thing to think about. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may prefer not to use them in your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a necessity for new parents however, with the many choices available it can be difficult to know which type of stroller is right for you. The tips above can help narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller for your needs here and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards that cover construction, material performance, and safety warnings.
Find a seat with a wide base and a seat low in the frame so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or out. The seat should be secured by the belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, which can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. It's best to keep the stroller clear of objects that could get caught in a child's fingers or pose the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever is not accessible to toddlers.
It's worth checking that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction during use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to take into consideration, as children and babies are notorious for making messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that can stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirty footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, consider choosing one that has adaptors included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you are unsure of which features to select. There's also a wealth of information about safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, including when they are sitting 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.