Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to easily carry your little one when you're on the move. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Look for full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. It is important to choose a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats recline, which is especially beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different option to relax.
The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models come with an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you don't have to worry about it falling off when you are moving. Some strollers for jogging have passenger stow pockets which are useful for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for children to reach and they won't spill their drinks while they walk.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system, which will keep your child secure. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants, which makes them an ideal choice for families who use public transportation or ride shares. However, if you plan to use your stroller only occasionally, you may prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller, to check the hinges, as well as any other nooks or crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. These accidents are rare but they can happen. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and make sure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means to transport your child. It's also a great option to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers food, toys, and more. It's the reason you should pick a stroller with ample storage space to store everything in order.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. If you plan to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag may be sufficient.
Many of the best baby strollers come with many storage features built-in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes with one step. It features a quick 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 attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also features bottles with insulated pockets as well as external slip pockets that keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller neat and organized without adding any extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also search for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as toys or wipes without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your child and ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and it's crucial to choose what features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you plan to use it, and do you want a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are prone to spills and other mess. Consider the sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have the option of reclining chairs and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families who want a stroller to grow with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others permit the addition of a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you may want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller that is more adaptable and will look great with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents, but with so many options available it can be a challenge to know which type of stroller is right for you. The tips above can help you narrow down your options, so that you can choose the ideal stroller that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of studying and testing household products. She has a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials, performance and safety warnings.
Choose a seat that has an elongated frame and an expansive base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured using a crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any part that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure the brake lever is kept out of the reach of toddlers.
It's worth checking whether the stroller has a locking mechanism that prevents it from folding accidentally during use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for causing messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that can stand up to food spills and snot, as well as muddy footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider one that has adaptors included more info or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.
If you're not sure which features to select, a certified safety professional can help. There's also plenty of information on safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children getting hurt in strollers and carriers.