Choosing a Baby Stroller

A baby stroller allows you to carry your little one when you're out on the go. It's a great method to get around without having to carry too much gear.

Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a reclined seat that is almost flat (newborns still need neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend a lot of time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly suitable for infants and babies who don't yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats come with stowable footrests to provide your baby with another method of relaxing.

A majority of strollers have an infant tray which is useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models have a tray that is attached to the back of your seat, so you don't have to worry whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't spill their drinks while moving.

You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child in place. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to remove. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.

Some strollers have car seat frames or can be used with a car seat for infants making them ideal for families who use public transportation or ride shares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.

Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks or crannies which could irritate little fingers. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and you don't want to gift your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller and ensure it's safe to put into your trunk when folded.

Stores

A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's a method of carrying all the items you require for your family's needs on the go including food, diapers, toys and more. It is essential to choose the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.

How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For instance, if be using your stroller for extended walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional water bottles and clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller bag might be enough.

Many of the top strollers for babies include many storage features built-in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It also has a quick, near-seamless fold that's easy to manage using just one hand when carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.

You can also find storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and allows you to keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pockets that can keep small items such as keys and wallet in reach.

A stroller caddy is another storage option. These aren't features that are standard on every stroller but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others feature an universal attachment, so that they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.

You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a useful feature because more info it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your baby and keeps your hands free.

Style & Colour

There are many kinds of strollers on the market, and it's important to determine which features are most important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or with big wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it, and do you want a stroller that is easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be machine washed. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills and other dirt. Consider a sun shade or a handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can relax while you are out and about.

If you're looking for a stroller that can grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. These are great options for babies, since they include a baby seat and can be used as soon as. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some permit the addition of a toddler car seat when your child is ready.

Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colors of pink and blue If you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that can be worn with every outfit.

It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are so many types of strollers available that it can be difficult to select the best one. These tips will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the perfect stroller for you and your 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 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 regardless of whether you're taking the baby on a walk or shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover construction, material, performance and safety warnings.

Choose a base that is wide and a seat that is low in the frame, so that it isn't likely to tip over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured by the belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, as this could cause the stroller slide backwards. It is best to keep the stroller clear of any parts that could irritate a child's fingers or pose an choking risk Be sure to check that the brake lever isn't accessible to children.

Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when it's in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located 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.

Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the fabric of the stroller, since toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Choose a stroller with washable fabrics that stand up to food spills, snot and dirty footprints.

Consider buying a stroller that has adaptors, or can accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.

A certified safety expert can help you if you're unsure of the features you should choose. There's also a wealth of information regarding safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to buckle your child in every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and be sure 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.