13 Things You Should Know About Baby Stroller That You Might Not Have Considered
13 Things You Should Know About Baby Stroller That You Might Not Have Considered
Blog Article
Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your child while you're on the move. Apart from giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Look for full-size products that accommodate infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's where your child will spend the majority of their time. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats feature reclines, which are especially helpful for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests which allow your child to relax in a different manner.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The top models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side so you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some strollers with jogging capabilities have passenger stow pockets which are useful for holding bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child secure. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to take off for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them a great option for families who take public transport. If you plan to only use the stroller on occasion, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that tiny fingers could be snared. These incidents are not common, but they can happen. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your child. It's also a great option to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers food, toys, and much more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for snacks, a diaper bag and additional clothes. If you plan to use your stroller for short excursions around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with many storage options built into them. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with a large storage basket and a sunshade that can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It folds quickly and seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of tray, pockets and other attachments. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to make room for the essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. They're not standard features on every stroller but they're a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others feature a universal attachment so that they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Also, look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items such as toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder can be an important feature as it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your child, and also helps keep your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers available, and you need to choose which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or with large wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are prone to spills and other messes. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and about.
Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are excellent options for babies, since they include a baby seat that can be used immediately. Some have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is the color. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue shades, you might prefer not to use them in your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that will go with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a necessity for new parents however, with the many options to choose from it can be a challenge to know which type of stroller is right for you. The tips above can help narrow your options, so that you can select the best stroller that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has a long history of reviewing and testing household products. She has a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, 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 for a walk or going shopping, you need to be sure that the stroller you select is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you put your child in or out. The seat should be secured using the belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this could cause the stroller to slide backwards. It's best to keep the stroller clear of objects that could get caught in fingers of children or create the risk of choking, and always check the brake lever isn't within reach of a toddler.
It is important to verify that the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops 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 provide you with any safety updates.
Another thing to consider is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, since toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that be able to withstand baby food, snot and muddy footprints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your website car seat. This will enable your child to be securely transferred from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can help you if you are unsure of which features to select. You can also find lots of information regarding safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the right 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 hurt in strollers and carriers.