Choosing a Baby Stroller

A baby stroller allows you to carry your child while you're on the move. It's a great method to move around without having to carry too much gear.

Find products that are large enough to accommodate infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some have an infant bassinet, a travel system or both.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend most of his time in it. You should find an easy, spacious seat with plenty of space for your child to stretch and take a break. Some seats have reclines, which are useful for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different option to relax.

Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the seat's side, so you won't need to worry about it falling off while moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow which are useful for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't fall and spill their drinks while they walk.

It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, which will keep your child safe. You'll want to search for a five-point safety harness that's secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.

Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them an ideal choice for families who use public transportation or ride shares. If you only plan to use the stroller on occasion you may want an easy-to-use model that has less bells, whistles and features.

When you're shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges and any other places where little fingers may be snagged. Although these incidents are not common but they can happen, and you don't want to gift your child an amputation of the fingertip. Also, be aware of the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.

Storage

A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great method to transport all the items you need for your entire family, including diapers as well as food, toys and more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.

The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if be using your stroller for extended walks as your baby becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra water bottles and clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for short trips around town, then a smaller storage basket may suffice.

A lot of the top strollers for babies have many storage options built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU comes with an ample storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes with one step. It features a quick and almost seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while holding the baby or shopping.

There are also storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.

Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on all strollers, but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with all strollers.

Other useful storage features to look out for are 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 is also useful since it can help you stay hydrated on your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your baby.

Style & Colour

There are many different types of strollers on the market, and it's important to determine which features are most important to you. For instance, do need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold down and carry into your car, or do you need one with more wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How long will you be using it? Do you need one that's easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills and other messes. Consider a sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and an ottoman so that your child can rest while you are out and out and.

If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. They are a great option for infants, since they come with an infant seat that can be used as soon as. Some have a bassinet for newborns while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.

Another thing to consider is the color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a neutral-colored stroller, which is more versatile and can be paired with any outfit.

A baby stroller is a must for all new parents, but with so many options available, it can be hard to decide which stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow down your choices so that you can find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.

Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children, aged 7 and under.

Safety

You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe, whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers construction, material performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.

Look for a wide base and a seat low in the frame so that it isn't likely to tip over when you place your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured with a Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Keep the stroller clear of any parts that can make a child's fingers uncomfortable or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of the reach of toddlers.

It's worth checking that the stroller is equipped with an locking mechanism that stops it from folding in the wrong direction when in use, and that it can be locked by website pressing a button on the handlebar or dashboard. It's recommended 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 causing messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.

Think about buying a stroller which includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and then back.

If you're unsure which features to choose, a certified safety professional can assist. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.