10 Undisputed Reasons People Hate Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerWhen you're on the move, a baby stroller is a great option to transport your child. Apart from giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you need to go without being burdened by too much gear.
Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a seat that can recline almost flat (newborns require neck support). Some include the option of a bassinet or travel system or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. Find a wide, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which are particularly useful for infants and newborns who don't yet have the neck strength required to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with a different option to relax.
A majority of strollers have an infant tray that can be useful for storing snacks and toys. The best models come with a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so you do not have to be concerned if it falls off when you move. Some strollers with jogging capabilities have passenger stow pockets which are useful to hold sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy to access for children, which means they won't spill their drinks when moving.
You should also think about the stroller's restraint system, that will keep your child safe. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults and difficult for children to unbuckle. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers come with car seat frames or are compatible with an infant car seat, which makes them a great choice for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times you may want an easy-to-use model that has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits in your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than a means to carry your baby. It's a way to carry everything you need to take with you on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything in order.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you will require more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and other clothes. If you intend to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller basket could be enough.
A majority of the top baby strollers have plenty of storage options built into them. For example the UPPAbaby MINU comes with an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as one-step brakes. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
There are also storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zipper-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you keep essential items such as snacks, water, and diapers. It also comes with an insulated bottle pocket and external slip pockets that keep small items like keys and wallet within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. While these aren't the standard features of every stroller but they are an excellent way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others come with an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for side nettings or pockets to store small items like wipes or toys without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is useful as it will help you stay hydrated on your walks and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and it's crucial to determine which features are most important to you. Do you require a light stroller that can fold easily into your car or with large wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you expect to use it, and do you need a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great option for those who you are susceptible to spills and other messes. You might want to consider a sun shade or handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with an reclining chair as well as a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who need a stroller to grow with them. They are a great option for babies, since they come with an infant seat that can be used as soon as. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to consider is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of blue and pink 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 can be worn with any outfit.
A baby stroller is a necessity for new parents however, with the many options available it can be a challenge to determine which stroller is right for you. These tips will help you narrow your choices, so you can choose the ideal stroller to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. She holds a degree from applied math and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. She lives in New York City, with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
You want to be confident that your stroller is secure whether you're taking your baby for a stroll or going out shopping. It should meet the minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover the construction, materials, performance and safety warnings.
Look for a seat with an elongated frame and a wide base, so that it won't slide over when you take or place your child. The seat should also be securely fastened with a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, which can cause the stroller to slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any components that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure the brake lever is not within reach of young children.
It's important to confirm whether the stroller has a locking mechanism that prevents it from folding in the wrong direction during use, and that it can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.
The fabric of the stroller is important to think about, since children and babies are notorious for causing mess. Choose a model that has washable fabrics that can withstand baby food, snot, and dirty prints.
If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, think about getting a model with adaptors or that can be used with adaptors purchased separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're unsure which features to select an expert in safety can help. Online, you can find a lot of information about safe stroller usage. This includes information on how to pick and use the right stroller for your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and ensure that all safety straps are secured. Children in strollers and carriers are here often injured by emergency room doctors.