Will Baby Stroller Always Rule The World?
Choosing a Baby StrollerA baby stroller makes it easy to carry your child while you're on the move. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Choose products that are full-sized and have a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features since it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. It is essential to find an easy, spacious seat that provides ample space for your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats have reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that let your child relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The most effective models have an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you do not have to be concerned about it falling off when you move. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child's safety. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults and difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or car seat frames. This makes them a great option for families who take public transport. If you intend to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges and any other places where tiny fingers could be snared. These accidents are rare but they can happen. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means to transport your child. It's also a great option to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers food, toys, and much more. That's why it's important to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to organize everything.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and other clothes. If you're planning 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 include lots of storage features built-in. For instance the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes that are one-step. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.
There are storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to make read more room for the essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pocket to keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. These aren't features that are standard on all strollers, but they are a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others come with an attachment that is universal so that they're compatible with all strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are side nettings and pockets 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 can be an important feature as it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your child, and also helps keep your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are many different types of strollers on the market and it's essential to choose what features are important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold and carry into your car, or do you need one with larger wheels to maneuver over bumpy roads? How long do you plan to use it for, and do you need a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine, which is a great option if you're prone to spills or other mess. You might want to consider a sun shade or a handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models include a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and out and.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, think about a travel system. They are a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a must for all new parents however, with the many choices available it can be difficult to know which type of stroller is right for you. These suggestions will help you narrow your choices, so you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She has a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics, and her work has been featured in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you need to feel confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover construction, material, performance and safety warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you put your child in or out. The seat should be securely fastened with the crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller to slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any part that could pinch a child’s fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, make sure the brake lever is not within the reach of children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the fabric of the stroller, as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that stand up to baby food, snot and dirty footprints.
Consider buying a stroller that includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and return to the car.
If you're unsure which features to select, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. You can also find lots of information regarding safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. And remember to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors say they see many injuries caused by children who are hurt in strollers and carriers.