Choosing a Baby Stroller

When you're on the move, a stroller for your baby is a great way to get your child. It's a great way for you to get around without having carry too much gear.

Look for full-size products that can accommodate infants, pushchair with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with a bassinet or compact travel stroller system.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend the majority of his time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly beneficial for infants and newborns who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.

Most strollers offer a child tray which is useful for storing snacks and toys. The most effective models come with a tray that attaches to the side of the seat and you don't need to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging strollers; helpful hints, have passenger stow pockets which are useful for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for children to reach and they won't spill their drinks while moving.

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

Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or come with car frame seats. This makes them a great option for families who use public transport. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just occasionally, you may want an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.

Make sure when you shop for a toddler stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crevices that could cause little fingers to be snagged. Although these accidents are rare, they can happen. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds and make sure it fits into your trunk when folded.

Stores

A stroller is more than a means of transport for your baby. It's a method of carrying all the things you need for your family's needs on the go including diapers, food toys, and more. It's important to select the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything in order.

How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space to store diaper bags, snacks and other clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll use your stroller for shorter trips around town, then an a smaller storage basket might be enough.

Many of the best baby strollers come with many storage features built-in. For example the UPPAbaby MINU features a spacious storage basket as well as a pop-out sunshade, and one-step brakes. It has a fast, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.

You can also find storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that is ideal for your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets and exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallet in reach.

Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. These aren't standard features on every stroller but they can be an excellent way to keep it organised and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others include universal attachments, making them compatible with most strollers.

Other useful storage features to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items, like baby wipes or toys without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is a nice feature to have because it can help you stay hydrated during your walks and also keep your hands free while walking with your baby.

Style and Colour

There are a myriad of strollers to choose from and you have to choose which features are important to you. For example, do you require a double stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold down and carry into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy streets? How long do you plan to use it for, and do you want a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable covers for fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.

Travel systems are an excellent choice for families who need an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are excellent options for babies, since they come with an infant seat and can be used immediately. Some have a bassinet for newborns while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.

Color is another thing to think about. If you are one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Consider a neutral, more versatile stroller that can be worn with every outfit.

It is crucial for new parents to have a baby stroller but there are so many kinds of strollers available that it is difficult to pick the right one. The tips above will help you narrow down your options to choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.

Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, 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

When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.

Look for a wide base and a seat low in the frame so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should be securely fastened with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is out of the reach of toddlers.

It is important to verify whether the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding 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 provide you with any safety updates.

Another important consideration is how it is easy to clean the fabric of the stroller, as babies and toddlers are prone to making messes. Look for a model with washable fabrics that stand up to baby food and snot, Pushchairs Prams as well as dirt-covered footprints.

If you intend to use a car seat along with your stroller, consider choosing an option that has adaptors included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.

A certified safety expert can help you if you're unsure of which features to select. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times, including when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.