The 10 Most Dismal Baby Stroller Mistakes Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
The 10 Most Dismal Baby Stroller Mistakes Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
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Choosing a Baby Stroller
When you're moving, a stroller for your baby is an ideal way to get your child. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to be without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Find products that are large enough to fit infants with a seat that reclines nearly flat (newborns still require neck support). Some include a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial because your baby will spend the majority of his time in it. You should find a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch and unwind. Some seats have reclines that are particularly beneficial for infants and newborns who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with feet that can be stowed, which provides your baby with another option to relax.
A majority of strollers have the option of a tray for children, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray that can be stowed to the seat's side so you don't have to worry about it falling off when moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy for kids to reach and they won't fall and spill their drinks when they move.
You should also think about the stroller's safety system, which will help keep your child safe. You should look for a five-point safety harness secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles should be simple to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both with the doors open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or car seat frames. This makes them a great option for families who use public transportation. However, if you are planning to use your stroller only often, you might prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, take the time to look at the hinges and any other nooks and crannies where tiny fingers could be snared. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and you don't want your child the gift of a fingertip amputation. Be aware of how well the stroller folds, and make sure it's safe to put in your trunk when folded.
Stores
A stroller is much more than just a way to transport your baby. It's a way to carry all the things you need to take with you on the go including diapers, food, toys and more. It's the reason you should pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to store everything in order.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. For example, if you'll be taking your stroller on extended walks as your baby grows into a toddler, you'll need more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra clothes and water bottles. If you're planning to use your stroller for short excursions around town, a smaller bag could be enough.
Many of the best strollers for babies have plenty of storage options built into them. For instance, the UPPAbaby MINU comes with an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes with one step. It also comes with a quick close-seam fold that is easy to handle with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in the form of tray, pockets and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that fits perfectly into your stroller to make room for the essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also has insulated bottle pockets and outside slip pockets to keep keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. 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 sized to fit specific stroller models while others have an universal attachment, so that they're compatible with most strollers.
You can also search for pockets or side nettings that can be used to store small things like toys or wipes without taking up precious basket space. A cup holder is an excellent feature since it can help you stay hydrated during your strolls and help you keep your hands clear while walking with your baby.
Style and Colour
There are many kinds of strollers available, and it's important to determine which features are most important to you. For instance, do you require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold and put in your car or do you require one with larger wheels to navigate bumpy roads? How many hours will you use it? Do you need one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that are machine washable this is a fantastic option if you're prone to spills or other messes. Other features to consider include the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Also, some models have an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest on while you're out and about.
If you're seeking a stroller that can adapt to your family, you should consider a travel system. They're a great choice for infants as they typically include an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some come with a bassinet for newborns while others let you add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Color is another factor to think about. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of pink and blue, and if you're one of them, you might prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller that is neutral, which is more versatile and looks good with any outfit.
A stroller for babies is essential for all new parents however, with the many options to choose from it can be difficult to determine which stroller is the best one for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options so that you can find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Good Housekeeping's Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience evaluating and testing household products. 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 children who are 7 and under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby to a walk or shopping, you'll want to be confident that the stroller you pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements laid out by the AS/NZS standard, that covers materials, construction, performance, labeling and safety alerts for strollers.
Choose a base that is wide and a seat low in the frame so that it doesn't fall over when you insert your child in or out of it. The seat should also be securely fastened with the Crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other objects from the handles, as this could cause the stroller tilt backwards. It is recommended to ensure that the stroller is free of parts that could pinch fingers of children or create a choking hazard, and always check the brake lever is not accessible to a toddler.
Verify that the stroller 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. It's recommended to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
Another thing to consider is how it is simple to clean the stroller's fabric, since toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and muddy prints.
Think about buying a stroller which comes with adaptors or can be used with adaptors purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will let you safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller and then back.
If you're unsure which features to choose, a certified safety professional can be of assistance. There's also plenty of information about website safe stroller use on the internet, including tips for selecting and using the best stroller for your family. And remember to buckle your child in every time, even if they're seated in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.