Choosing a Baby Stroller

A stroller for babies makes it easy to carry your baby while you're on the move. It's a great way to get around without having to carry a lot of gear.

Find products that are large 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 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 is particularly suitable for infants and babies who do not yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Other seats have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different option to relax.

The majority of strollers have a child tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat and you don't need to worry about it falling off when moving. Some strollers for jogging have passenger stow pockets which are useful for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks while moving.

You should also consider the stroller's safety system, which will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to take off. It's 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 come with car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are a great choice for families who take public transportation or rideshares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only often, you might prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.

When you're shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges as well as any other places where tiny fingers could be snared. These accidents are rare but they occur. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's folding capabilities and make sure it fits in your trunk.

Storage

A stroller is much more than just a method to transport your baby. It's also a great option to carry all the things you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers food, toys, and 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 plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for shorter trips around town, then smaller storage baskets might be enough.

A lot of the top strollers for babies come with plenty of storage options built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an ample storage basket as well as a sunshade which can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It features a quick and almost seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.

You can also find storage options in the form trays, pockets and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller, allowing room for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pocket to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.

Another storage option is a stroller caddy. Although they're not a standard feature of all strollers, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk to your ride. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others have an attachment that is universal to ensure they're compatible with all strollers.

You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small items like toys or wipes without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is useful as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your baby.

Style & Colour

There are many different types of strollers available and it's essential to determine which features are most important to you. For instance, do require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and take 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 keep clean and maintain?

Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings that can be washed in the machine, which is a great option if you're prone to spills or other mess. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and out and about.

If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are excellent options for newborns, as they include a baby seat and can be used immediately. Some bassinets are designed for babies, while some let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.

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

It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it can be difficult to choose the right one. These tips will help you narrow your options to find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.

Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has years of experience in evaluating and testing household products. She holds a degree in 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

You'll want to ensure that your stroller is safe regardless of whether you're taking the baby for a stroll or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.

Choose a base that is wide and a seat low in the frame so that it isn't likely to tip over when you place your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured with an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this may make the stroller go backwards. Keep the stroller free of any part that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is kept out of reach of young children.

It is important to verify that the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding when in use, and can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.

The fabric of the stroller is also important to consider, as babies and children are notorious for causing messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and dirty prints.

Consider buying a stroller that comes with adaptors or can be used with adaptors purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and then back.

A certified safety expert can assist you if you're unsure of the best features to choose. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online, including tips for selecting and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or pushchairsandprams carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.