The Biggest Problem With Baby Stroller And How To Fix It
Choosing a Baby StrollerWhen you're on the move, a stroller for your baby is an ideal way to take your child. It's a great way for you to get around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Look for products that are large and come with a seat that is able to be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with an infant bassinet, a travel system, or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend most of his time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats feature reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with a different way to relax.
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 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 handy to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't spill their drinks when they move.
It is also important to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child's position. You should look for a five-point safety harness secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults, and difficult to remove for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child in it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or have car seat frames. This makes them a good option for families who use public transport. If you only plan to use the stroller occasionally, you might prefer a lightweight model with less bells, whistles and features.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges and any other nooks or crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. While these accidents are rare however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller, and make sure it fits in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is more than a mode of transportation for your baby. It's a means to carry all the things you need for your family's needs on the go, including diapers, food toys, and much more. It is essential to choose the stroller that has plenty of storage to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For example, if you'll be taking your stroller on extended walks as your baby becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra water bottles and clothes. On the other side, if you'll only be using your baby stroller for short trips around town, then an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
A majority of the top strollers for babies come with plenty of storage options built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance, comes with an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It also features a simple and seamless fold that's simple to operate with just one hand while holding a baby or shopping for food items.
There are storage options in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For example, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller to provide space for necessities such as 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 in reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. These aren't standard features on every stroller, but they're a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others have a universal attachment to make them compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other useful storage features to look for include pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items like toys or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a useful feature because it allows you to keep website hydrated while walking with your baby and ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you must determine what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that folds easily into your car or one with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy-to-clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers which can be washed by a machine this is a fantastic feature to have if your prone to spills or other dirt. Other features worth considering include a sun shade and a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models also have the option of reclining chairs and a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, consider a travel system. They're a great choice for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat and can be used from day one. Some come with a bassinet for infants, while others permit the addition of a toddler car seat when your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may want to avoid these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors which is more flexible and can be paired with any outfit.
A stroller for your baby is a necessity for new parents however, with the many choices available it can be difficult to know which type of stroller is the best one for you. The tips above will help you narrow down your options so that you can choose the right 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 items. She has a degree in 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 kids 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is safe whether you're taking your baby on a walk or shopping. It must meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard, that covers materials, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items on the handles, which can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Keep the stroller free of any parts that can pinch a child’s fingers or cause a choking risk. Also, make sure the brake lever is kept out of the reach of toddlers.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking system which prevents it from folding when it is 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 provide you with any safety updates.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric because toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Find a stroller that has washable fabrics that will stand up to baby food, snot and dirt-covered footprints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider an option that has adaptors included or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and return to the car.
A certified safety expert will assist you if you are unsure of the best features to choose. Online, you can get a wealth of information regarding safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to select and use the right stroller for you and your family. Make sure you buckle your child at all times, including when they are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely secured. Children in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.