20 Important Questions To Ask About Baby Stroller Prior To Purchasing Baby Stroller
20 Important Questions To Ask About Baby Stroller Prior To Purchasing Baby Stroller
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Choosing a Baby Stroller
If you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is a great option to transport your child. It's a great way to move around without having to carry a lot of equipment.
Find items that are big enough and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet, travel system, or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. You should find an easy, spacious seat that allows your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats have reclines, which are helpful for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength to sit up. Other seats have footrests that can be stowed to provide your child with a method of relaxing.
A majority of strollers have the option of a tray for children which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models come with an attached tray to the side of your seat, so you do not have to be concerned if it falls off when you are moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for children to reach, so they won't drop their drinks when they move.
You should also consider the stroller's safety system, which will keep your child secure. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles should be easy for adults to fasten and difficult for children to take off. You'll want to try the stroller with your child in it, both opened and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers have car frame seats or are compatible with a car seat for infants making them ideal for families who use public transportation or ride share. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may want a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crevices which could irritate little fingers. These incidents are not common, but they occur. You do not want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure that it will fit inside your trunk.
Stores
A stroller is more than just a mode of transportation for your child. It's a way to carry everything you need to take with you on the go, including food, diapers toys, and more. This is why it's crucial to select a stroller that has ample storage space to store 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 need more storage space for a diaper bag, snacks and additional clothes. If you intend to use your stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller basket could be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies come with plenty of storage options built-in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example, comes with an enormous storage basket and a sunshade that is able to pop out, and a one-step breaks. It has a fast and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
You can also find storage options that come in the form of trays, pockets and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller, more info allowing room for essentials like water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottle pockets and exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
Another storage option is a stroller caddy. They're not standard features on every stroller but they are a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others have a universal attachment to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like wipes or toys without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is an important feature as it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your child, and also ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers to choose from and you must determine what features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller that is light enough to fold down and take into your car, or do you need one with bigger wheels to get over bumpy sidewalks? How long do you plan to use it for, and do you want a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers which can be machine washed. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include a sun shade and the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining chair and the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller that can adapt to your family, you should consider a travel system. They are a great option for infants, since they include an infant seat that can be used right away. Some have a bassinet for infants, while others permit the addition of an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-specific colours of blue and pink If you're one of them, you may prefer not to use these colors 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 crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their baby but there are so many kinds of strollers on the market that it can be a challenge to choose the right one. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options to choose the perfect stroller for your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household items. 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 want to be sure that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which address construction, material performance, and safety warnings.
Choose a seat that has a low frame and a wide base, so that it won't tip over easily when you take or place your child. The seat should be secured using an elastic strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this could cause the stroller backward. It's best to ensure that the stroller is free of any parts that could irritate the fingers of a child or create the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever isn't accessible to children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it's in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. Registering your stroller will allow the manufacturer to provide you with any safety updates.
Another important consideration is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, because toddlers and babies are more likely to make messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and dirt-stained prints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow your child to be securely transported from the car to the stroller and back.
A certified safety expert can assist you if you're unsure of which features to select. You can also find lots of information about safe stroller use online with tips on choosing and using the best stroller for your family. Make sure you buckle your child every time you are sitting in the stroller. Also, ensure that all safety straps and buckles are securely fastened. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room doctors.