10 Double Strollers Strategies All The Experts Recommend
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a great investment if you have two children with similar ages. These compact tandem buggies or versatile side by side buggies let you keep both children in sight while navigating the grocery aisle and parks, as well as whatever else life can throw at you.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This could include the seating arrangement and overall size, which can have an impact on the ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, says parents should examine the stroller's weight as well as folded dimensions. "They should also take a look at the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."
A good double stroller should be able to handle a variety of surfaces with ease from suburban sidewalks to parks and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should have a variety of seating options for children at different stages of development, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies that protect children from the sun or rain.
The seating options are important to many families who use double strollers from the time of birth until the age of. double stroller for twins says there are two primary categories of in-line seating, with one seat in-front of the other and side-byside with seats adjacent to one another. "Some parents prefer an in-line stroller due to its sleek look and versatility, while others like a wagon-style double stroller that can be used to store bulky items or grocery bags."
In-line models are more likely to have this type of discrepancy. Some models might offer different recline options, with one seat being almost flat and the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats to ensure both children can lie back comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to quickly access their snacks, personal items and toys when in motion. She also says that it is helpful to choose a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep their essentials in their reach.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers are expandable which allows parents to alter the set-up based on the requirements of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to carry the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers should be able to move and push, particularly on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain their form when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier is another great feature to look out for. Safety features include a durable brake system and wheels which slide over any surface.
Some parents choose a side-by-side design that allows both children to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can stop sibling fights over which child gets to sit where, but it's not foolproof. If the seats are different levels, a child might kick or punch another while walking in the event that the seats are at different levels.
A tandem-style stroller is a great option for parents with twins or siblings that are close in age. It lets them observe both children at the same time. However, they can be larger than other double strollers, meaning they may not be able to be able to pass through all doors in your home. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be transformed from a single stroller to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you are looking for a tandem or side-byside stroller, be sure the stroller has been JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be aware of the weight limit that applies to each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue and other issues.
It's easy to get caught in the sound of bells and whistles, but it's important to remember that strollers are in essence baby carriers that are used for extended durations. It should be comfortable for both parents and children, easy to clean and maintain, and ideally it should have an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to effortlessly maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward and turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
User-Friendliness
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller must be able to navigate various terrains. Features like adjustable canopy systems windows, peek-aboo windows, and dependable brake systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children, however, there are other elements that contribute to stroller ease of use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, but still have plenty of storage space for food or other things. Also important are thoughtful touches such as a cup holder for one parent, parent consoles and an eating tray for children -- all things that will make life with two children significantly easier.
During our testing, we evaluated each stroller on the basis of its performance on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature enhanced the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller without rethread straps is easy to adjust the seat belts. This can be a big benefit for parents who are constantly on the move, as it removes the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this metric, as it offers a wide range of seating options and accessories to accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller expands to accommodate a second seat as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families with active children who plan long, tiring days with multiple kids of varying ages. It also glides smoothly over cobblestones, ball fields and pavements. It also folds flat for easy storage in a closet or trunk. Our test subject Kerry appreciated the straightforward and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its stylish packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guides made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice more than one single stroller so be sure to search for ample storage space. Ideally, you'll want a stroller that is able to hold the essentials for both kids--nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, along with parents' items such as phones, wallets keys, wallets and phones. Look for baskets that fit under the seat as well as other pockets, and consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can carry bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller should be able to grow with your family. For instance, some models include the bassinet attachment, which can be used for newborns, and others have child seats that can grow with your children until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers also include a rider board to allow older siblings to be part of the fun.
There are many double strollers available. You can pick from models with high-performance features that are great for rough terrain, as well as more budget-friendly options that you can use every day. When you're shopping, read reviews from other users and the opinions of families like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different designs such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins as well as children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers have two seats that are set in a tandem arrangement, facing opposite directions. This is a great option for children who are similar age or siblings who prefer to play with one another. Tandem strollers can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model offers multiple seating configurations, including the ability to connect two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the memory foam seats as well as the canopy, which has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. And when it's time to fold, this model needs just a couple of tugs on the straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold in half.