The Ugly Reality About Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller makes it easy to carry your little one while you're on the move. It's a great way pram for newborn you to get around without having carry a lot of gear.
Look for items that are big enough and include a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
A stroller's seat is among the most important features because it's where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially helpful for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different way.
Most strollers offer an infant tray that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models come with the tray that is attached to the back of your seat so that you aren't worried if it falls off when you move. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow which are useful for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't spill their drinks when they move.
You should also look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will secure your child's safety. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders pram and car seat between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults, but difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test the stroller with your child inside it, both opened and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants making them ideal for families who take public transportation or ride share. However, if you plan to use your stroller just often, you might prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller, to check the hinges, and any other nooks or crevices that could pinch little fingers. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and you don't want to give your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is more than a means to transport your child. It's a means to carry all the things you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food toys, and more. This is why it's crucial to select a stroller that has ample storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. On the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for shorter trips around town, then smaller storage baskets might suffice.
A lot of the top baby strollers come with plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with a large storage basket as well as a sunshade which pops out, and one-step breaks. It also comes with a quick, near-seamless fold that's easy to manage with just one hand while holding a baby or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and an exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallets in reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While they're not a standard feature of all strollers but they are a great way to keep your stroller organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others feature an attachment that is universal so that they're compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like toys or wipes without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a nice feature to have as it will help you stay hydrated on your strolls and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market, and it's important to decide which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that can fold easily into your car or one with large wheels that can aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do you want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that are machine washable and is a great option if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features to consider are the sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have an reclining chair as well as an ottoman so that your child can rest while you are out and out and.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are a great option for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some even have the option of a bassinet for infants as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Color is another thing to take into consideration. If you are one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that can be worn with every outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a baby stroller however, there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it is difficult to choose the right one. The tips above will help you narrow your options to choose the perfect stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three kids 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers construction, material performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat low in the frame so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured by a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging pram bags or other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could pinch a child’s fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within reach of toddlers.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.
Another thing to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric because toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics to withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
If you intend to use a car seat with your stroller, think about getting an option that has adaptors included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will enable your child to be safely taken from the car to stroller and back.
If you're unsure of which features to select, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. Online, you can find plenty of information about safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to select and use the correct stroller for you and your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they are seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are properly secured. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children being hurt in strollers and carriers.