10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden To Help You Get Started With Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerA stroller for babies allows you to easily carry your little one while you're on the go. Apart from giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you want to be without being weighed down by too much gear.
Find full-size products that fit infants with a seat that can recline nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with an infant bassinet, a travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. It is essential to find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and take a break. Some seats recline, which is particularly useful for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different way.
Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store snacks and toys. The best models have the tray that is attached to the seat's side and you don't need to worry about it falling off while moving. Some jogging strollers come with pockets for passengers that are great to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, that will keep your child safe. The ideal is a five-point harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles should be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. It's important to test the stroller with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers have car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat making them a great choice for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you intend to use the stroller for a few times it is possible to choose a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When you're shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that little fingers may be snagged. Although these accidents aren't common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child the gift of a fingertip amputation. Also, be aware of the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it's able to fit into your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your child. It's a method of carrying all the items you require to take with you on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with ample storage space to keep everything organized.
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'll require more storage space to store diaper bags, snacks and extra clothes. If you plan to use your baby stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with many storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and one-step brakes. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of tray, pockets and other attachments. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked 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 such as keys and wallets within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While they're not the standard features of all strollers, they can be a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, while others feature an attachment that is universal so that they're compatible with all strollers.
Other storage options to look for include side nettings and pockets that can be used to store small items such as baby wipes or toys, without taking up space in the basket. A cup holder is also a nice feature to have because it can help you stay hydrated during your strolls and keep your hands free while walking with your child.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers on the market and it's crucial to decide which features are most important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car, or one with large wheels that can aid you on bumpy streets. How long do you intend to use it, and do you need an easy-to-clean stroller? keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers for fabric that can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have a reclining seat and a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, think about a travel system. They're a great choice for babies since they usually 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. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might prefer to stay clear of these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a must for all new parents, but with so many options available it can be difficult to determine which stroller is best for you. The tips above will help you narrow your options to choose the right stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds a degree from 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
Whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you want to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety alerts for strollers.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and an expansive base so that it won't slide over when you take or place your child. The seat should also be secured with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, which can cause the stroller to tip backward. Keep the stroller clear of any part that could be a danger to children's fingers or pose a danger of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of young children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system that stops it from folding accidentally when it's in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars, or the dashboard. It's also a good idea to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another thing to consider is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric as babies and toddlers are prone to making messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics that can withstand baby food, snot, and muddy prints.
If you plan to use a car seat with your stroller, think about getting a model with adaptors that are included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow here you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you're unsure of the features you should choose. There's also plenty of information about safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the correct stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child every time even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all safety straps and buckles 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.