The One Double Infant Stroller Mistake That Every Beginner Makes
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are simple to fold and transport and fit nicely inside a trunk of a car, and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
If your children are similar in age, you might decide that a sit-and stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid sibling fights over which seat to choose. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seats like the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your toddler and baby are comfortable in the stroller. Choose a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth road bumps. Also, select one with buckles that can be easily unfastened and fastened.
Choose a big UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests let your child to sit in the rear seat when they're exhausted. Some double strollers give this option for both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will be determined by the weight and age of the children who will be using it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to monitor two children at a time, making it ideal for twins or siblings of a similar age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers, and can be difficult to maneuver in tight or narrow areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in a car seat for infants. It's not the best double strollers option for newborns but can be useful for older children who can walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional alternative. It has multiple seating configurations and can be used for years as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good choice for parents who want to purchase one stroller, but are planning to use it with two kids. It's more expensive than the top tandem model however it will last an extended period of time and comes with the best resale value she adds.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It's not as compact as some of the other strollers we've tested however it does have an elegant, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and has a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't sag and a huge storage bin.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for a model that's easy to use. It should have a variety of features, including the ability to fold the stroller in a compact manner and to adjust the handlebar's height to accommodate different types of users. Some models come with more than one storage compartment to allow families to divide items for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phones, keys and other necessities easily accessible.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a cost-effective model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that lets you add another seat, convert it into a triple using an incline board, or change to a single mode with a rear bench. This flexibility will let double strollers last as long as you want it to.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were impressed with the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model accepts all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or children of various ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double buggy side by side strollers that we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 Stokke Double Stroller (Telegra.Ph), it's on the other hand, is sleek and stylish. It also comes with an ample basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a standard child's seat. It can be used by a single child as young as three years old. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to last and not wear out.
Additionally, the UPPAbaby is super light at just 18 pounds and folds down in half to create a sleek and compact package that's easy to transport and put away. It's also simple to open and re-close with a latch and requires no tools to put together. It was a top choice among our Lab experts for its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets, as well as the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able to slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. When not in use they are often required to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet the needs of parents, double pushchair with car seat strollers can be built in a wide range of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side, and they can have fixed or removable seats, or be equipped with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single toddler or twins. Some are designed to be used for running, while others can be used on beaches or on hiking trails.
Modular designs can be especially helpful for families that need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to allow parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments, and car seats, so that the stroller is able to serve the family from birth through toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child using the bassinet or baby seat or for a toddler using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers, utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. Raul says it was simple to take apart and assemble since the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code.
Another amazing feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar, as well as brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated by your thumb. The swiveling front wheel will allow it to make precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
While double strollers have been criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of strollers are sleek and offer many customization options. You might even find one that is compatible with your car seat for infants which makes it easier to get out and about with two children with you.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in line, ensure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system provides a smooth ride for your children who are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an armrest, make sure it's adjustable to accommodate Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy is another essential feature that will protect your children from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopies have an reversible flap as well as a transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo that allows you to watch your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies have visors that block direct sunlight.
Another important factor to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are simpler to put in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Strollers that have a single button to fold the chassis are also simpler to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, bear in mind the distance your children are and what kind of excursions you are planning to take them on. For instance, if you're children are in the same age range and you want to opt for a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can interact when outings are planned. On the other the other hand, if you have a significant age gap then you may want to consider a side-by-side model that gives them more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that integrates with top-rated car seat brands and has good attachment scores. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using car seat adapters.