11 Methods To Redesign Completely Your Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerA stroller for babies allows you to carry your little one when you're on the go. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get to where you need to go without being weighed down by too much equipment.
Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system, or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features since it's the place where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially helpful for newborns and infants who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with another option to relax.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children, which can be useful 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 if it falls off when you move. Some strollers with jogging capabilities have passenger stow pockets that are great for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach and they won't spill their drinks when they move.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system that will keep your child secure. 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 secure for adults and difficult for children to remove. You'll want to try the stroller with your child in it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or come with car seat frames. This makes them a great choice for families that use public transportation. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and other features.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crevices that could pinch little fingers. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great method to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and much more. It's crucial to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if use your stroller for longer walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. If you're planning to use your baby stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart may be sufficient.
A lot of the top baby strollers come with plenty of built-in storage features. For example the UPPAbaby MINU comes with a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and one-step brakes. It also has a quick and seamless fold that's easy to manage with just one hand carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
There are also storage options in the form trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is pushchair a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pockets that can keep small items such as keys and wallets within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items like wipes or toys without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is useful since it can help you stay hydrated during your walks and also keep your hands free when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a myriad of strollers available and you have to decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with big wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How many hours will you use it? Do you need one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic feature to have if you're prone to spills or other messes. Other features to consider are the sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as the footrest to allow your baby to rest in while you're out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are a great option for infants as they typically include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some even come with an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Color is another factor to take into consideration. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may prefer not to use them in your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller that is neutral, which is more versatile and will look great with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents, but with so many choices available, it can be hard to determine which stroller is best for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options to choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of evaluating and testing household products. She holds 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
If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material performance, and safety warnings.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or out. The seat should also be secured using the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this can make the stroller go backwards. Keep the stroller free of any components that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, make sure the brake lever is not within reach of toddlers.
It is important to verify that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it from accidentally folding during use, and that it can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for making mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that can stand up to food spills, snot and muddy footprints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider a model with adaptors that are included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will enable your child to be securely transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you in the event that you are not sure of which features to select. There's also a wealth of information on safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they're sitting in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children being injured in strollers and baby carriers.