Choosing a Baby Stroller

When you’re moving, a stroller for your baby is a great way to take your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you want to be without getting burdened by too much gear.

Find products that are large enough to can accommodate infants, with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some come pram with car seat a bassinet or travel system.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is vital because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly beneficial for infants and newborns who don’t yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.

The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children, which can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The most effective models have an attached tray to the back of your seat so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging strollers have passenger stow pockets, which are handy to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for children to reach, so they won’t drop their drinks when they move.

You should also consider the stroller’s safety system, which will keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. It is essential 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 and are ideal for families who use public transportation or ride shares. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.

When you’re shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don’t want your child a fingertip amputation. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it’s able to fit in your trunk when folded.

Storage

A stroller is more than a means to carry your baby. It’s also a great method to transport all the items you’ll need for your whole family, such as diapers, toys, food and much more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.

The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you’ll be taking your stroller on longer walks as your baby develops into an adult, you’ll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. On the other side, if you’ll only use your stroller for shorter trips around town, then an a smaller storage basket might suffice.

A lot of the best baby strollers have many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that’s simple to operate with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.

There are storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top prams bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for essentials like water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallet in reach.

A stroller caddy is a different storage option. They’re not standard features on all strollers, but they are a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, while others feature a universal attachment to ensure they’re compatible with a wide range of strollers.

You can also search for pockets or side nettings to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is also useful because it can help you stay hydrated on your walks and also keep your hands free while walking with your baby.

Style & Colour

There are many kinds of strollers available and it’s crucial to choose what features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold up and take into your car or do you require one with more wheels to navigate bumpy sidewalks? How long do you expect to use it for, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills and other mess. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Additionally, some models come with 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, you should consider a travel system. These are a great option for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for newborns while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.

Another thing to think about is the color. If you’re one those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may prefer not to use them in your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that will go with any outfit.

It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants but there are so many types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to pick the right one. The tips above will help you narrow down your choices so that you can choose the perfect stroller that fits your lifestyle.

Good Housekeeping’s Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.

Safety

When you’re taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you’ll want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards that cover the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.

Choose a seat that has a low frame and a broad base to ensure that it doesn’t fall over when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured using a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. It is best to ensure that the stroller is free of objects that could get caught in the fingers of a child or create an choking risk, and always check the brake lever is not within reach of a toddler.

It’s important to confirm whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction when in use, and can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.

Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller’s fabric since toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.

Consider buying a stroller that 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 transfer your child from the car to the stroller and return to the car.

A certified safety expert can assist you if you’re unsure of the features you should choose. There’s also plenty of information regarding safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even when they’re sitting in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children being injured by strollers or carriers.