13 Things You Should Know About Baby Stroller That You Might Not Have Considered
13 Things You Should Know About Baby Stroller That You Might Not Have Considered
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Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your baby while you're on the move. It's a great way to move around without having to carry too much gear.
Find products that are large and come with a seat that is able to be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have a bassinet, travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend most of his time in it. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have an attached tray to the side of your seat, so you aren't worried if it falls off when you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access for children, which means they won't spill their drinks when moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. You should look for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants making them a great choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges as well as any other places where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents aren't common, they do happen, and you don't want your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is much more than just a method to transport your child. It's a way to carry all the things you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food, toys and more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if you'll be using your stroller for long walks as your child becomes a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothing and water bottles. If you're planning to use your baby stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller bag may be sufficient.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with lots of storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It features a quick and seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in pockets, trays and other accessories. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, allowing room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While these aren't an essential feature of all strollers, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding any weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific strollers, whereas others come with universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like toys or wipes without taking up valuable basket space. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your child, and also keeps your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers available, and you need to determine what features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller to fold and fit into your car, or one with large wheels that can help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long will you be using it? Do you need one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that are machine washable and is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are a great option for infants as they typically include an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for babies, while some permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to take into consideration. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may want to avoid them for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and can be paired with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a necessity for new parents however, with the many options available, it can be hard to determine which stroller is the best one for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options to find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience reviewing and testing household products. She has a degree in 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 who are 7 and under.
Safety
If you're taking your child for a walk or going shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with 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 take them out. The seat should be secured by an elastic crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags or other items on the handles, which can cause the stroller to tip backward. Make sure the stroller is free of any parts that can pinch a child’s fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is here out of reach of toddlers.
Verify that the stroller 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 the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric since toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
Think about buying a stroller which has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely taken from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety expert can be of assistance. There's also a wealth of information regarding safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time even when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children getting hurt in strollers and carriers.