Choosing a Baby Stroller

If you're constantly moving the baby stroller is a great way to take your child. Aside from giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to be without being burdened by too much gear.

Look for products that are full-sized and come with a seat that is able to be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.

Seating

A stroller's seat is among the most essential features as it's the place where your baby will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.

Most strollers offer a child tray which is useful to store toys and snacks. The top models have a tray that attaches to the seat's side and you don't be concerned about it falling off while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access for children, which means they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.

It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system that will keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to remove. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.

Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them a great choice for families that use public transportation. If you intend to use your stroller just occasionally, you may want a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.

When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take your time to inspect the hinges as well as any other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents are rare, they do happen. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure that it will fit into your trunk.

Stores

A stroller is more than a means to carry your baby. It's a way to carry everything you need for your family's needs on the go including food, diapers toys, and much more. It's crucial to pick the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything in order.

The amount of storage space you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller only for short trips around the town, a smaller cart might be enough.

Many of the best baby strollers have many storage options built into them. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU includes a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and brakes that are one-step. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for groceries.

You can also find storage options in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller, allowing room for essentials like snacks, water and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallets in reach.

Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller tidy and organized without adding any weight or bulk to your ride. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while others have universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.

You can also search for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is a useful feature because it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your baby and keeps your hands free.

Style & Colour

There are a variety of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. For instance, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold and carry into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable fabric coverings which can be washed here by a machine this is a fantastic option if you're prone to spills or other dirt. Other features to consider include the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with the option of reclining seats and an extra footrest for your child to rest on while you're out and about.

If you're seeking a stroller that can grow with your family, consider a travel system. These are a great option for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some permit the addition of a toddler car seat when your child is ready.

Color is another aspect to consider. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you may prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. You could also consider choosing a neutral-colored stroller which is more flexible and looks good with any outfit.

It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are so many types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to choose the right one. The tips above can help narrow your options so that you can select the best stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.

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

Safety

When you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you need to be sure that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which address the construction, materials performance, and safety warnings.

Look for a seat with a low frame and an expansive base, so that it won't tip over easily when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured using a belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this could cause the stroller tilt backwards. Keep the stroller clear of any part that could pinch a child’s fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within reach of children.

It's worth checking whether the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and that it can be locked by pressing the handlebar or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety information.

Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the fabric of the stroller, as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.

You should consider purchasing a stroller that includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you intend to use your car seat. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.

A certified safety expert will assist you in the event that you are not sure of the best features to choose. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even if 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 who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.