Are You Responsible For An Baby Stroller Budget? 10 Terrible Ways To Spend Your Money
Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller makes it easy to carry your little one when you're out on the go. Aside from giving your back a break, it also helps you get to where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your equipment.
Look for full-size products that fit infants with a reclined seat that is almost flat (newborns still require neck support). Some come with a bassinet or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is important since your child will spend most of his time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that lets your child stretch and relax. Some seats come with reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who do not yet have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats come with stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
Most strollers offer a child tray, which can be useful to store toys and snacks. The best models have an attached tray to the back of your seat so you aren't worried if it falls off when you move. 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 fall and spill their drinks while they walk.
You should also consider the stroller's restraint system which will help keep your child safe. You'll want to look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults, but difficult to remove for children. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be easy to push and comfortable even on rough terrain.
Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or come with car frame seats. This makes them a good option for families who take public transport. However, if you plan to use your stroller only often, you might prefer a lightweight stroller with fewer bells and whistles.
When shopping for a stroller, make sure you take the time to examine the hinges and other nooks and crannies where little fingers might be pinched. Although these accidents aren't common, they do happen, and you don't want your child the gift of an amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold, and make sure it fits in your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is much more than just a way to transport your child. It's also a great option to transport all the items you'll need for your whole family, including diapers food, toys, and much more. This is why it's crucial to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you intend to take your stroller on long walks as your child grows, you'll need more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and other clothes. If you're planning to use your stroller just for short trips around town, a smaller basket may be sufficient.
Many of the best baby strollers have many 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 has a fast and almost seamless fold that is easy to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
You can also find storage options that come in the form of pockets, trays, and other attachments. For instance, the Bugaboo Organizer is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller to make room for necessities such as water, snacks, and diapers. It also has an insulated bottle pocket and exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets within reach.
A stroller caddy is a different storage option. These aren't standard features on every stroller but they're a great way to keep it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are specifically designed to fit specific models of strollers, while some have universal attachments that make them compatible with most strollers.
Also, look for side nettings or pockets to store small items like wipes or toys without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is a useful feature because it allows you to keep hydrated while walking with your baby and ensures that your hands are free.
Style & Colour
There are many kinds of strollers on the market and it's essential to choose which features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with large wheels that can help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long will you use it? Do want one that's easy to clean and maintain?
Some strollers have removable covers made of fabric that can be washed in the machine this is a fantastic feature to have if you're susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features worth considering include sun shade as well as an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Additionally, some models come with an adjustable reclining seat as well as a footrest for your baby to rest in while you're out and out and about.
Travel systems are a great choice for families who want an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are a great option for babies since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used from day one. Some bassinets are designed for newborns while others allow you to add an infant car seat once your child is ready.
Another thing to consider is color. If you're one those people who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink colors, you might prefer to stay clear of them for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and looks good with any outfit.
It is essential for new parents to have a stroller for their infants but there are so many types of strollers that it is difficult to choose the right one. The tips above can help narrow your options so that you can choose the ideal stroller for your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in 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 who are 7 and below.
Safety
You'll want to know that your stroller is secure whether you're taking your baby on a walk or out for a shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by the AS/NZS standards, which covers material, construction, performance, labeling and safety warnings for strollers.
Look for a seat with frames that are low and have an expansive base to ensure that it doesn't slide over when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured using a crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this can make the stroller go backwards. It is best to keep the stroller free of parts that could pinch the fingers of a child or create a choking hazard, and always check the brake lever isn't in the reach of a toddler.
It's worth checking whether the stroller has an locking mechanism that stops it from folding accidentally while in use, and that it 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 information.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean the fabric of the stroller, since toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Make sure you choose a stroller that has washable fabrics to withstand infant food, snot and dirty prints.
If you plan to use a car seat along with your stroller, think about getting a model that has adaptors included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately.
www.pushchairsandprams.uk will let you safely transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
If you're unsure of which features to choose, a certified safety professional can help. On the internet, you'll get a wealth of information about safe stroller use. This includes information on how to choose and use the best stroller for your family. And remember to secure your child every time, even if they're sitting in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are frequently injured by emergency room physicians.