20 Important Questions To Ask About Baby Stroller Before You Purchase …

Choosing a Baby Stroller

When you're moving, a baby stroller is an ideal way to transport your child. It's a great way to get around without having carry a lot of gear.

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

Seating

The seat of a stroller is important since your child will spend the majority of his time in it. Find a wide, comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines, which are especially beneficial for infants and newborns 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 another method of relaxing.

Most strollers offer the option of a tray for children, which can be useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so that you don't have to worry whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging walkers include pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, meaning they won't spill their drinks when they move.

You'll also want to look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. 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 unbuckle for children. You'll want to try the stroller with your child in it, both open and closed. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.

Some strollers come with car frame seats or are compatible with an infant car seat and are ideal for families who take public transportation or ride shares. If you plan to only use the stroller for a few times you may want a lightweight model with fewer bells, whistles, and features.

When shopping for a stroller, take your time to inspect the hinges and other nooks and crannies that little fingers might be pinched. These accidents are rare but they do happen. You do not want your child to be the victim of amputations to their fingers. Be aware of the foldability of the stroller and ensure it fits in your trunk when folded.

Storage

A stroller is more than just a way to transport your child. It's a means to carry everything you need to take with you on the go, including diapers, food toys, and more. That's why it's important to choose a stroller with ample storage space to organize everything.

How much storage space you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if you'll be using your stroller for extended walks as your baby grows into an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothes and water bottles. If you're planning to use your stroller only for short trips around town, a smaller basket may be sufficient.

Many of the top baby strollers include plenty of built-in storage features. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It folds quickly, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while holding the baby, or shopping.

There are also storage options in the form of pockets, trays and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to make room for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as outside slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.

A stroller caddy is an additional storage option. Although they're not the standard features of all strollers, they can be an excellent method of keeping your stroller neat and organized without adding a lot of extra weight or bulk to your stroller. Some are specifically designed to be compatible with specific models of strollers, whereas others include universal attachments, making them compatible with all strollers.

You can also search for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like wipes or toys without occupying valuable basket space. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it lets you remain hydrated while strolling with your child and keeps your hands free.

Style and Colour

There are a variety of strollers on the market and it's essential to determine which features are most important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that can fold easily into your car or with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you expect to use it, and do you want a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?

Some strollers come with removable covers for fabric that can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. Other features to consider are a sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining seat and an extra footrest for your child to rest in while you're out and about.

Travel systems are an excellent choice for families that want a stroller to grow with them. These are great options for infants, since they include an infant seat that can be used immediately. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to go on a ride.

Color is another thing to consider. If you're one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you may prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. You can also consider opting for a stroller with neutral colors which is more flexible and looks good with any outfit.

It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their infants, but there are a myriad of types of strollers on the market that it is difficult to choose the right one. The suggestions above will help you narrow your choices 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 in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering 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

If you're taking your child for a stroll or shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements pram set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.

Choose a base that is wide and a seat low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you place your child in or take them out. The seat should be secured using an elastic Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any parts that can be a danger to children's fingers or create a risk of choking. Also, ensure that the brake lever is not within the reach of young children.

It's important to confirm whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from accidentally folding while in use, and can be locked by pressing a button on the handlebar or the dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.

The fabric of the stroller is also important to think about, since babies and children are notorious for making mess. Look for a model with washable fabrics that will be able to withstand baby food, snot and dirt-covered footprints.

If you intend to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider an option with adaptors or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and return to the car.

If you're unsure of which features to pick an expert in safety can assist. On the internet, you can get a wealth of information on safe stroller use. This includes advice on how to pick and use the right stroller for your family. Be sure to secure your child at all times you are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely secured. Children in strollers and carriers are frequently injured by emergency room doctors.