Choosing a Baby Stroller

If you're constantly moving, a baby stroller is a great option to transport your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it helps you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.

Find full-size products that accommodate infants with a reclined seat that is nearly flat (newborns require neck support). Some come with the option of a bassinet or travel system, or both.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend a lot of time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines that are particularly useful for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.

The majority of strollers have a tray for children that can be used to store snacks and toys. The most effective models have an attached tray to the side of your seat, so you don't have to worry about it falling off when you move. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers which are useful for storing bottles and sippy cups. The pockets are easily accessible for children, so they won't spill their drinks when moving.

You'll also want to take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which can help keep your child in place. You should 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 by adults, but difficult for children to take off. You'll want to test the stroller with your child inside it, both opened and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.

Some strollers come with car seat frames or are compatible with a car seat for infants and are a great choice for families who use public transportation or rideshares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.

When shopping for a stroller to inspect the hinges, and any other nooks or crannies that could pinch little fingers. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want your child an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's folding capabilities and ensure that it will fit inside your trunk.

Stores

A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's a means to carry all the items you require to take with you on the go including diapers, food toys, and much more. It's important to select a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything in order.

The amount of storage space you require will be contingent on your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be using your stroller for extended 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. If you intend to use your stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller basket might be enough.

A lot of the top strollers for babies include plenty of built-in storage features. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example has an enormous storage basket, a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also has a quick and seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand while holding a baby or shopping for food items.

You can also find storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. The here Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that fits perfectly in your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as snacks, water and diapers. It also has bottles with insulated pockets as well as outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.

Another storage option is a stroller caddy. While these aren't the standard features of every stroller however, they can be a great way to keep your stroller tidy and organized without adding a lot of weight or bulk to your ride. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, while others come with a universal attachment so that they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.

You can also search for pockets or side nettings to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up valuable basket space. A cup holder is a useful feature because it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your baby and keeps your hands free.

Style and Colour

There are many different types of strollers available, and it's important to decide which features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that can fold easily into your car or with large wheels that can help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How many hours will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that can be washed in the machine this is a fantastic option if you're susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider are a sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have the option of reclining seats and an extra footrest for your child to relax in while you're 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 newborns since they usually include an infant car seat that can be used from the first day. Some have a bassinet for newborns while others let you add a toddler car seat when your child is ready.

Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to gender-biased colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral stroller that is more flexible and will go with any outfit.

A stroller for babies is a necessity for new parents however, with the many options to choose from it can be a challenge to decide which stroller is right for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options so that you can 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 in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from mechanical engineering and applied mathematics 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 stroll or shopping, you'll want to feel confident that the stroller you choose is safe. It should meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers construction, material, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.

Choose a base that is wide and a seat that's low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured using the crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other objects on the handles, which could cause the stroller to tip backward. Keep the stroller clear of any components that could be a danger to children's fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within the reach of young children.

Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it is in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety information.

Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric because toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabric that can handle infant food, snot and muddy prints.

If you plan to use a car seat along with your stroller, think about getting a model with adaptors or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will allow your child to be safe transferred from the car to stroller and back.

If you're unsure of which features to select an expert in safety can assist. There's also a wealth of information regarding safe stroller use online and includes tips for choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.