5 Laws That Will Help The Baby Stroller Industry
Choosing a Baby StrollerWhen you're on the move, a baby stroller is an ideal way to take your child. Apart from giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you need to go without being burdened by too much equipment.
Look for full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital because your baby will spend most of his time in it. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch and take a break. Some seats recline, which is especially useful for infants and newborns who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers come with a child tray that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side, so you won't need to worry about it falling off while moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities have pockets for passengers to stow, which are handy to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they won't spill their drinks when moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will keep your child safe. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to unbuckle for children. It is important to test the stroller 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 frame seats. This makes them an excellent choice for families that use public transport. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times you may want an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges, as well as any other nooks or crannies that could pinch little fingers. These incidents are not common, but they do happen. You do not want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. 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 way to transport your child. It's also a great way to transport all the items you require for your entire family, including diapers, toys, food and more. That's why it's important to select a stroller that has ample storage space to organize everything.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on longer walks as your baby becomes a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothing and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for short trips around town, an a smaller storage basket might be enough.
Many of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage features built-in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes with one step. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
There are also storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, allowing room for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also has an insulated bottle pocket and exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallet within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. These aren't standard features on every stroller but they're a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others feature a universal attachment to make them compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other storage options 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 an excellent feature because it can help you stay hydrated during your walks and also keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market, and it's important to determine what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car or with large wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How many hours will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic feature to have if your prone to spills or other dirt. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have the option of reclining seats and a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can grow with your family, consider a travel system. These are a great option for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it can be difficult to choose the right one. The tips above will help you narrow your options so that you can choose the ideal stroller that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing 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 under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards that cover the construction, materials performance, safety and performance warnings.
Find a seat with frames that are low and have a wide base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging more info bags or other items from the handles, which could cause the stroller tilt backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any components that could pinch a child’s fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for causing messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that will stand up to food spills, snot and dirty footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, you should consider a model with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you are unsure of the best features to choose. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. Be sure to buckle your child in every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.