10 Tell-Tale Warning Signs You Should Know To Buy A Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerA stroller for babies makes it easy to carry your little one when you're on the move. It's a great method to get around without having carry too much gear.
Choose products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include an infant bassinet, a travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable footrests to provide your baby with another method of relaxing.
Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The top models have a tray that attaches to the side of the seat, so you won't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, so they won't spill their drinks while they walk.
You should also consider the stroller's safety system, which will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test the stroller with your child inside it, both opened and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car frame seats. This makes them a good option for families who take public transportation. If you intend to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crannies which could irritate little fingers. These accidents are rare but they occur. You don't want your child be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's a means to carry everything you need for your family's needs on the go including diapers, food, toys and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage space you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if be taking your stroller on longer walks as your baby becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothes and water bottles. If you intend to use your baby stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller basket may be sufficient.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example features an ample storage basket and a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple close-seam fold that is easy to handle with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage is also available in pockets, trays and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to provide space for essentials like water, snacks, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. These aren't standard features on every stroller but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others have an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like toys or wipes without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder can be a useful feature because it allows you to stay hydrated while strolling with your baby and helps keep your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are many types of strollers on the market and you must decide what features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold up and carry into your car or do you require one with more wheels to maneuver over bumpy sidewalks? How long will you be using it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine and is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills and other messes. Other features worth considering include a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and an ottoman so that your child can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. These are a great option for infants as they typically include an infant car seat and can be used from day one. Some bassinets are designed for newborns while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another thing to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral, more versatile stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a baby stroller but there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it can be a challenge to pick the right one. The tips above will help you narrow your options so that you can choose the right stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. She has 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 children aged 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is secure whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base, so that it won't slide over when you take or place your child. The seat should be securely fastened with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items on the handles, which could cause the stroller tilt backwards. It is best to keep the stroller clear of parts that could pinch a child's fingers or pose the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever isn't in the reach of children.
It's worth checking that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally during use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric, since toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabric that can handle the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
If you plan to use a car seat with your stroller, consider choosing an option that has adaptors included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you're unsure of which features to select. There's also a wealth of information regarding safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child Push Chairs & Prams every time even when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.