The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a baby stroller is an ideal way to take your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it also helps you get there where you need to be without being burdened by too much equipment.
Find full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend a lot of time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially useful for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats also have stowable footrests to provide your baby with another way to relax.
Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children that can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The top models have the tray that is attached to the seat's side, so you won't need to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. try this are easy for children to reach, so they won't drop their drinks while they walk.
It is also important to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. You should look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults and difficult for children to remove. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them ideal for families who take public transportation or ride share. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally you may want one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and other features.
When shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies that little fingers may be snagged. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is much more than just a method to carry your baby. It's also a great option to transport all the things you need for your entire family, such as diapers food, toys, and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, if you'll use your stroller for long walks as your child grows into a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothes and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for a shorter trip around town, smaller storage baskets might suffice.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with many storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes with one step. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage is also available in the form of pockets, trays 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 necessities such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While these aren't an essential feature of all strollers however, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller neat and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some include universal attachments, making them compatible with all strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is an important feature as it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your child and keeps your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers available, and it's important to determine which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with large wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long will you use it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine and is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or other dirt. Consider a sun shade or a handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can relax while you are out and out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, consider a travel system. They are a great option for infants, since they include an infant seat and can be used immediately. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored, more versatile stroller that will go with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents, but with so many options to choose from it can be a challenge to know which type of stroller is best for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow down your choices so that you can choose the right stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with frames that are low and have a broad base, so that it won't slide over when you take or place your child. The seat should be secured by an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this may make the stroller go backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any parts that can make a child's fingers uncomfortable or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is out of reach of young children.
Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, or the dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.
The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that stand up to baby food, snot and muddy footprints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely taken from the car to the stroller and back.
If you're unsure which features to choose an expert in safety can help. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. And remember to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting 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.