Do Not Buy Into These "Trends" About Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerWhen you're on the move, a stroller for your baby is a great way to transport your child. Aside from giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to be without being weighed down by too much equipment.
Look for products that are full-sized and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most essential features as it's the place where your baby will spend a lot of time. It is important to choose a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength required to sit up. Other seats have feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with a different method of relaxing.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the seat's side so you don't need to worry about it falling off while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible to children, meaning they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, which will help keep your child secure. The ideal is a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. It is essential to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them an excellent option for families who use public transportation. If you intend to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
When shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks or crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these accidents aren't common but they can happen, and you don't want your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Also pay attention to how well the stroller folds and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's a means to carry all the things you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. If you're planning to use your stroller for short excursions around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies come with many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with a large storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It folds quickly and almost seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
There are storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly in your stroller and lets you store essentials such as snacks, water, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller but they're a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, such as baby wipes or toys and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many different types of strollers on the market and it's essential to decide which features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold down and put in your car, or do you need one with larger wheels to get over bumpy roads? How long will you be using it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills and other mess. You might want to consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and an ottoman so that your child can relax while you are out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, think about a travel system. They're a great choice for infants as they typically come with an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another aspect to think about. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pushchairs uk pink shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that will go with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a necessity for new parents However, with all the options to choose from it can be a challenge to know which type of stroller is right for you. The tips above will help you narrow your options so that you can choose the right stroller for you and your 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 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
If you're taking your child for a walk or going shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standards, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and an expansive base, so that it won't fall over when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured using a crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags or other items on the handles, which could cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is best to keep the stroller clear of objects that could get caught in a child's fingers or pose an choking risk, and always check the brake lever is not accessible to children.
It's important to confirm that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from accidentally folding when in use, and can be locked by pressing the handlebar or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Look for a model with washable fabrics that stand up to baby food and snot, as well as dirty footprints.
Think about buying a stroller which includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will enable your child to be securely taken from the car to stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. You can also find lots of information on safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times even when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children being hurt in strollers and carriers.