Choosing a Baby Stroller

A baby stroller allows you to carry your little one when you're on the go. It's a great way for you to get around without having to carry a lot of gear.

Find items that are big enough and include a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have a bassinet, travel system or both.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend most of his time in it. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats also have feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with another option to relax.

The majority of strollers have a child tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so you do not have to be concerned about it falling off when you are moving. Some strollers for jogging have pockets for passengers to stow that are great for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they won't spill their drinks when moving.

It is also important to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which will help secure your child's safety. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.

Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them a great choice for families who utilize public transportation or ride shares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just often, you might prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.

When you're shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that tiny fingers could be snared. Although these accidents aren't common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure that it will fit in your trunk.

Stores

A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your child. It's a means to carry all the things you need for your family's needs on the go, including diapers, food toys, and more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything organized.

The amount of storage space you need will depend on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For example, pushchairsandprams if you'll use your stroller for long walks as your child becomes a toddler, you'll need more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for a shorter trip around town, then smaller storage baskets might suffice.

A lot of the top strollers for babies have many storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an enormous storage basket and a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple, near-seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.

There are storage options in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to keep essential items such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also comes with an insulated bottle pocket and outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallet within reach.

Another storage option is a stroller caddy. These aren't standard features on every stroller but they are a great way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with a variety of strollers.

Other useful storage features to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items, like toys or baby wipes, without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is also an excellent feature as it will aid you in staying hydrated on your walks and also keep your hands free while walking with your child.

Style & Colour

There are a variety of strollers on the market and it's essential to choose which features are most important to you. For example, do you require a stroller that is light enough to fold and carry into your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to navigate bumpy streets? How many hours will you use it? Do want one that is easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great option for those who you are prone to spills and other mess. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have the option of reclining seats and a footrest for your baby to relax in while you're out and out and about.

If you're looking for a stroller that will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are a great option for newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.

Color is another thing to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of blue and pink If you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller that is neutral that is more adaptable and will look great with any outfit.

It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their infants however, there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to select the best one. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options 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 mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children aged 7 and under.

Safety

Whether you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you want to be sure that the stroller you choose is safe. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.

Choose a seat that has frames that are low and have a wide base so that it won't slide over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be securely fastened with a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. It is 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 is not in the reach of toddlers.

Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any security alerts.

Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric because toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.

If you intend to use a car seat with your stroller, you should consider an option with adaptors that are included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller and then back.

A certified safety expert will assist you in the event that you are not sure of the best features to choose. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller for your family. And remember to secure your child every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.