Choosing a Baby Stroller

When you're moving, a baby stroller is a great option to transport your child. It's a great method to get around without having to carry too much gear.

Look for items that are big enough and have a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.

Seating

The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend most of his time in it. Find a spacious, comfortable seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is especially suitable for infants and babies who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength required to sit up. Other seats have feet that can be stowed, which provides your child with a option to relax.

Most strollers come with an infant tray that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models have a tray that is attached to the side of your seat, so you aren't worried whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow, which are handy for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't spill their drinks when they move.

You should also think about the double stroller's restraint system, which will help keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll want a five-point harness which is secured at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure for adults, but difficult to remove for children. You'll want to test out the stroller with your child inside 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, which makes them an ideal choice for families who take public transportation or ride shares. However, if you are planning to use your stroller just often, you might prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.

When you are shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to look at the hinges and any other places where little fingers might be pinched. Although these incidents are not common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child the gift of a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and ensure it fits in your trunk.

Storage

A stroller is more than a means of transport for your child. It's a means to carry everything you need for your family's needs on the go including diapers, food, toys and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage to keep everything in order.

The amount of storage you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. If you intend to take your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you'll require more storage space to store snacks, a diaper bag and other clothes. If you plan to use your stroller just for short trips around the town, a smaller cart could be enough.

Many of the best prams baby strollers have many storage options built-in. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU comes with an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It has a fast and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.

Stroller storage is also available in pockets, trays and other accessories. For instance the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, allowing room for the essentials such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has insulated bottles pockets double pram and pushchair exterior slip pockets that can keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.

Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on all strollers, but they can be an excellent way to keep it organised and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models while others feature a universal attachment so that they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.

Also, look for pockets or side nettings to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up precious space in the basket. A cup holder is useful as it will help you stay hydrated during your walks and keep your hands free when walking with your baby.

Style & Colour

There are many different types of strollers available, and it's important to decide which features are important to you. For instance, do you need a stroller that's lightweight enough to fold up and put in your car or baby travel do you require one with larger wheels to navigate bumpy sidewalks? How long will you be using it? Do you need one that is easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are prone to spills and other messes. Consider a sun shade or a handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have the option of reclining seats and the footrest to allow your baby to relax in while you're out and about.

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

Color is another factor to take into consideration. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Think about a neutral-colored stroller that is more flexible and can be worn with every outfit.

It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their baby however, there are so many kinds of strollers available that it can be difficult to pick the right one. The tips above will help you narrow down your choices so that you can find the best stroller for your needs and lifestyle.

Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree in 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, aged 7 and under.

Safety

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

Find a seat with a wide base 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 also be secured with a Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handles, as this can cause the stroller to tilt backwards. Make sure the stroller is free of any parts that can make a child's fingers uncomfortable or pose a danger of choking. Also, make sure the brake lever is not within the reach of young children.

It is important to verify that the stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from accidentally folding when in use, and can be locked by pressing the handlebar or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.

The fabric of the stroller is important to take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for making mess. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.

If you plan to use a car seat along with your stroller, think about getting one with adaptors that are included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and then back again.

If you're unsure of which features to choose, a certified safety expert can help. There's also a wealth of information on safe stroller use online, including tips for selecting and using the right stroller pram for newborn your family. Remember to buckle up your child at all times, including when they are seated in the stroller. Also, ensure that all buckles and safety straps are securely fastened. Doctors in emergency rooms say they see many injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.