Choosing a Baby Stroller

When you're moving the baby stroller is a great way to transport your child. Aside from giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you want to be without getting weighed down by too much gear.

Choose items that are big enough and include a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with an infant bassinet, a travel system or both.

Seating

A stroller's seat is among the most important features because it's where your child will spend a lot of time. You should find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and take a break. Some seats recline, which is especially useful for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with a different option to relax.

A majority of strollers have the option of a tray for children which is useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so that you aren't worried whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't spill their drinks when they move.

It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child safe. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure by adults, but difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to try 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 are compatible with a car seat for infants, which makes them a great choice for families who use public transportation or ride shares. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally you may want a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and features.

When shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to give your child the gift of an injury to the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits into your trunk.

Stores

A stroller is much more than just a way to transport your child. It's a method of carrying all the items you require for your family's needs on the go including food, diapers toys, and much more. It's the reason you should select a stroller that has ample storage space to keep everything organized.

The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on long walks as your child develops into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothing and water bottles. If you plan to use your baby stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.

A lot of the top strollers for babies come with many storage features built-in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It also has a quick and seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.

There are also storage options in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets and an exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallet in reach.

A stroller caddy is a different storage option. Although they're not the standard features of all strollers however, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific strollers, whereas others have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.

You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items such as toys or wipes without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your child and ensures that your hands are free.

Style & Colour

There are many types of strollers available and you must choose which features are important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold down and take into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy sidewalks? How many hours will you use it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills and other mess. Consider a sun shade or a handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have an adjustable reclining seat as well as the footrest to allow your baby to relax in while you're out and out and about.

Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. They're a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat and can be used from the first day. Some even come with an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns as well as others that allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.

Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and looks good with any outfit.

It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it can be difficult to choose the right one. These tips can help you narrow down your choices, so you can select the best stroller for your lifestyle and needs.

Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in 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 who are 7 and under.

Safety

You'll want to know that your stroller is secure regardless of whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It should meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction, performance and safety warnings.

Choose a base that is wide and a seat that is low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured using the crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags or other objects on the handles, which could cause the stroller tilt backwards. It is recommended to keep the stroller clear of parts that could pinch the fingers of a child or create the risk of choking, and always check the brake lever is not accessible to children.

Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when it is 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 to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.

The fabric of the stroller is important to think about, since babies and children are notorious for their messes. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that can be able to withstand baby food and snot, as well as dirty footprints.

You should consider purchasing 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 then back.

A certified safety expert will assist you if you're unsure of the best features to choose. On the internet, you'll find plenty of information on safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to select and use the best stroller for your family. Remember to buckle your Pushchairs And Prams child in every time, even if they are seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children who are hurt in strollers and carriers.