11 Strategies To Refresh Your Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby StrollerIf you're constantly moving, a stroller for your baby is a great way to take your child. In addition to giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get there where you need to be without getting burdened by too much equipment.
Choose items that are big enough and include a seat that can be reclined to a nearly flat position. (Newborns still require neck support). Some have a bassinet, travel system, or both.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is vital since your child will spend most of his time in it. It is important to choose a comfortable, wide and comfortable seat that allows your child to stretch out and unwind. Some seats recline, which is especially beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats come with footrests that can be stowed to provide your child with a method of relaxing.
A majority of strollers have a child tray which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray to the back of your seat so that you aren't worried if it falls off when you are moving. Some jogging strollers have pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also worth considering the stroller's safety system, that will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness which is secured at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to remove. You'll want to try the stroller with your child inside it, both open and closed. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or come with car seat frames. This makes them an excellent option for families who take public transportation. However, if you plan to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.
Make sure when you shop for a stroller to look at the hinges, as well as any other nooks and crannies that could pinch little fingers. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You don't want your child suffer a fingertip amputation. Also, be aware of how well the stroller folds and ensure it's able to fit in your trunk when folded.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a method to transport your child. It's a means to carry everything you need for your family's needs on the go, including food, diapers, toys and more. It's the reason you should choose a stroller with ample 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 develops into an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, additional clothes and water bottles. On the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for a shorter trip around town, then an a smaller storage basket might be enough.
A lot of the top strollers for babies have lots of storage options built into them. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU features an ample storage basket, a pop-out sunshade and brakes that are one-step. It also comes with a quick, near-seamless fold that's easy to handle with just one hand holding a baby or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you store essentials such as snacks, water and diapers. It also features bottles with insulated pockets as well as external slip pockets that keep small items like keys and wallet within reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. These aren't standard features on every stroller, but they can be an excellent method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, while others feature a universal attachment to make them compatible with most strollers.
You can also look for pockets or side nettings to store small items like wipes or toys without occupying valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is also useful as it will help you stay hydrated during your walks and keep your hands free while walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are many different types of strollers available and it's essential to determine what features are important to you. For instance, do require a stroller with a lightweight design enough to fold up and carry into your car or do you require one with more wheels to maneuver over bumpy roads? How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable fabric covers that can be washed by machine. This is a great choice if you are susceptible to spills or other mess. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also come with a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can rest while you are out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which will grow with your family, think about a travel system. These are great options for infants, since they include an infant seat and can be used as soon as. Some even come with 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 think about. If you are one of those people who are sensitive to gender-biased pink and blue shades, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. Consider a neutral-colored stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are a myriad of types of strollers that it is difficult to pick the right one. These suggestions can help narrow your choices, so you can find the perfect stroller to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience evaluating household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering. Her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting. 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 pick is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements set by the AS/NZS standard, which covers material, construction performance, labeling, and safety warnings for strollers.
Find a seat with a low frame and a wide base so that it won't fall over when you take or place your child. The seat should be secured using a belt for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this can cause the stroller backward. Make sure the stroller is free of any part that could make a child's fingers uncomfortable or cause a choking risk. Also, ensure that the brake lever is out of the reach of young children.
Check that the stroller is equipped with a best prams locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally when in use. It should be possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars, 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 take into consideration, as babies and children are notorious for their mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand the snot, baby food, and muddy prints.
If you are planning to use a car seat alongside your stroller, you should consider an option with adaptors that are included or can accommodate ones purchased separately. This will allow you to safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're unsure which features to select an expert in safety can be of assistance. Online, you can find a lot of information on safe stroller usage. This includes tips on how to choose and use the right stroller for you and your family. Make sure you buckle your child every time even when they are seated in the stroller. Also, make sure all buckles and safety straps are securely fastened. Emergency room doctors have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are injured by strollers or carriers.