13 Things About Baby Stroller You May Not Have Known
13 Things About Baby Stroller You May Not Have Known
Blog Article
Choosing a Baby Stroller
A stroller for babies allows you to carry your baby when you're on the go. Apart from giving your back a break, it also helps you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.
Find products that are large enough to accommodate infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns still need neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
A stroller's seat is one of the most important features because it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. 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 don't yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats also have stowable footrests to provide your baby with a different way to relax.
Most strollers offer a child tray which is useful to store toys and snacks. The most effective models come with an attached tray that can be stowed to the side of the seat and you don't have to worry about it falling over while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they will not spill their drinks while moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, which will keep your child secure. 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, but difficult to unbuckle for children. You'll want to test the stroller with your child in it, both opened and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat making them ideal for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you only plan to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other places where little fingers may be snagged. These incidents are not common, but they do happen. You don't want your child to be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller and make sure it's safe to put in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's a means to carry everything you need for your family's needs on the go including diapers, food toys, and much more. It's crucial to pick the stroller that has plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.
How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on longer walks as your baby develops into an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothing and water bottles. On the other side, if you'll only be using your stroller for a shorter trip around town, then an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with many storage options built into them. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It also comes with a quick close-seam fold that is easy to handle with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for groceries.
There are also storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep things like water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. Although they're not an essential feature of every stroller however, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller neat and organized without adding any extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others include universal attachments, making them compatible with most strollers.
You can also search for pockets or side nettings to store small items such as wipes or toys without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder can be a useful feature because it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your baby and ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers to choose from and you must decide what features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and carry into your car or do you require one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy streets? How long do you expect to use it, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings which can be washed by a machine, which is a great option if you're susceptible to spills or other dirt. Other features to consider include the sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need a stroller that grows with them. They are a great choice for infants as they typically come with an infant car seat and can be used as early as day one. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is the color. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might want to avoid them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors, which is more versatile and looks good with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their baby however, there are a myriad of types of strollers available that it can be a challenge to select the best one. The tips above will help you narrow your options to choose the perfect stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She has a degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children who are 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 choose is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials performance, safety and performance warnings.
Find a seat with an elongated frame and a broad base to ensure that it doesn't slide over when you put or remove your child. The seat should be secured with the crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is recommended to keep the stroller free of objects that could get caught in a child's fingers or pose a choking hazard Be sure to check that the brake lever isn't within reach of a toddler.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, or the dashboard. The registration of your stroller allows the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric as babies and toddlers are more likely to make messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider a here model that has adaptors included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're unsure of which features to select an expert in safety can be of assistance. On the internet, you'll find plenty of information on safe stroller usage. This includes advice on how to select and use the correct stroller for you and your family. Remember to buckle up your child every time you are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Doctors in emergency rooms report that they encounter a lot of injuries caused by children getting injured in strollers and baby carriers.