Choosing a Baby Stroller

A baby stroller allows you to carry your child when you're out on the move. In addition to giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you want to go without being burdened by too much equipment.

Look for products that are large and include a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend a lot of time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.

The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children which is useful to store toys and snacks. The best models come with an attached tray to the back of your seat, so you don't have to worry whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't drop their drinks when they move.

You should also look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child's safety. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness that secures at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. You'll want to try the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. 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 an excellent option for families who take public transportation. If you plan to only use the stroller on occasion, you might prefer one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and other features.

Take the time when shopping for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks or crannies which could irritate little fingers. These accidents are rare but they do happen. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Also pay attention to the foldability of the stroller and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.

Stores

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

The amount of storage you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space to store a diaper bag, snacks and other clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for short trips around town, an a smaller storage basket might suffice.

A lot of the top baby strollers have many storage features built-in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It also comes with a quick close-seam fold that is easy to manage with just one hand while holding a baby or shopping for groceries.

There are storage options in the form pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to provide space for essentials like water, snacks, and diapers. It also features insulated bottle pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets to keep small items such as keys and wallet in reach.

Another storage option is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on all strollers, but they're a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others feature a universal attachment to make them compatible with all strollers.

Also, look for side nettings or pockets to store small things like toys or wipes without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder can be a useful feature because it lets you keep hydrated while walking with your baby and keeps your hands free.

Style & Colour

There are a myriad of strollers available and you must choose which features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car, or one with large wheels that can aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you be using it? Do you want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be machine washed. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features worth considering include the sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as the footrest to allow your baby to rest on while you're out and about.

If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, you should consider a travel system. These are excellent options for babies, since they include an infant seat that can be used immediately. Some even have the option of a bassinet for infants and some allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to go on a ride.

Color is another factor to consider. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue colors, you may prefer not to use them in your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and looks good with any outfit.

It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their infants, but there are a myriad of types of strollers that it can be a challenge to select the best one. The tips above will help you narrow your options so that you can select the best stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.

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

You'll want to know that your stroller is secure regardless of whether you're taking the baby on a walk or shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standard that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.

Look for a wide base 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 by the belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, which could cause the stroller to tip backward. It is recommended to keep the stroller clear of objects that could get caught in the fingers of a child or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever is not accessible to toddlers.

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

The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since babies and children are notorious for causing messes. Choose a model that has washable fabrics to withstand baby food, snot, and dirty prints.

If you are planning to read more use a car seat with your stroller, think about getting a model with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will allow your child to be securely transported from the car to the stroller and back.

If you're not sure which features to select, a certified safety expert can be of assistance. There's also plenty of information regarding safe stroller usage online and includes tips for choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child every time you are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children being injured by strollers or carriers.