The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is a great option to take your child. Apart from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you need to be without getting weighed down by too much equipment.
Look for products that are full-sized and include a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who do not yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with footrests that can be stowed to provide your baby with another way to relax.
A majority of strollers have a child tray which is useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray to the back of your seat so that you don't have to worry about it falling off when you are moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow that are great for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness that secures at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test 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 can be used with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them a good option for families who take public transport. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that tiny fingers could be snared. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to gift your child a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your baby. It's also a great way to carry all the things you require for your entire family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and more. That's why it's important to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to store everything in order.
The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be using your stroller for long walks as your child develops into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, prams for newborns snacks, additional clothing and water bottles. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for a shorter trip around town, then smaller storage baskets might suffice.
A lot of the top baby strollers come with lots of storage features built-in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes that are one-step. It features a quick and almost seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in tray, pockets and other accessories. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example is a zipper-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and external slip pockets that keep keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. Although they're not the standard features of all strollers but they are an excellent method of keeping your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others have an universal attachment, so that they're compatible with most strollers.
Other storage options to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your baby and helps keep your hands free.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market, and it's important to decide which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or foldable pram for newborn (webookmarks.Com) one with large wheels that can assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you expect to use it for, and do you want a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers for best travel stroller fabric that can be machine washed. This is a great option for those who you are prone to spills and other mess. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with the option of reclining chairs and an ottoman so that your child can relax while you are out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are a great option for newborns 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 add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Color is another aspect to think about. If you're one those who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller that is neutral that is more adaptable and will look great with any outfit.
It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their infants but there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to choose the right one. The tips above will help you narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & travel strollers Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. 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
If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you want to feel confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which address the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so that it isn't likely to tip over when you insert your child in or out. The seat should be secured using the strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tip backward. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure the brake lever is out of reach of young children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that prevents it accidentally folding when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any safety alerts.
The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for making mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, think about getting a model with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be safe transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're unsure which features to pick, a certified safety professional can help. On the internet, you'll find a lot of information on safe stroller use. This includes information on how to pick and use the best stroller for you and your family. Be sure to secure your child every time even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Children in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.