Choosing a Baby Stroller

If you're constantly moving the baby stroller is a great option to take your child. It's a great way to get around without having to carry a lot of gear.

Look for products that are large and have 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 important features because it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch out and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats come with footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with a different way to relax.

Most strollers come with a child tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you do not have to be concerned whether it falls off while you are moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they will not spill their drinks while moving.

You should also consider the stroller's safety system, which will keep your child safe. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that secures at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to unbuckle for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.

Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with an infant car seat making them a great choice for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use the stroller on occasion, you might prefer one that is lightweight and has less bells, whistles and other features.

When shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. These incidents are not common, but they occur. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Also pay attention to how well the stroller folds and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.

Storage

A stroller is much more than just a method to carry your baby. It's a way to carry all the things you need for your family's needs on the go including food, diapers, toys and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to store everything in order.

The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For example, if you'll be using your stroller for extended walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space to store a diaper bag, snacks, extra clothes and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for short trips around town, then smaller storage baskets might suffice.

A lot of the best baby strollers have many storage features built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance has a large storage basket as well as a sunshade which can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick close-seam fold that is easy to manage using just one hand when holding a baby or shopping for food items.

Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other accessories. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to keep things like snacks, water and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallets within reach.

A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. These aren't standard features on all strollers, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others have a universal attachment so that 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 occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is an important feature as it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your child and helps keep your hands free.

Style & Colour

There are many different types of strollers available and it's essential to determine which features are most important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold down and take into your car, or do you need one with larger wheels to navigate bumpy sidewalks? How long will you use it? Do you need 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 you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Consider a sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with an reclining chair as well as an ottoman so that your child can rest while you are out and out and about.

If you're looking for a stroller which can grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are great check here options for babies, since they come with an infant seat that can be used right away. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.

Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colors of pink and blue, and if you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller with neutral colors which is more flexible and can be paired with any outfit.

It is vital for all new parents to have a baby stroller, but there are a myriad of types of strollers that it can be a challenge to choose the right one. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your options to choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.

Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three kids 7 and under.

Safety

If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you want to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which cover construction, material performance, safety and performance warnings.

Find a seat with a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you place your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured by a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller backward. It is recommended to keep the stroller free of parts that could pinch fingers of children or create the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever is not in the reach of toddlers.

Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.

The fabric of the stroller is also important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for making mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.

If you are planning to use a car seat along with your stroller, you should consider an option with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be safe transferred from the car to stroller and back.

If you're not sure which features to pick, a certified safety professional can help. There's also a wealth of information about safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children getting hurt in strollers and carriers.