9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Baby Stroller
Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your child when you're on the move. Aside from giving your back an opportunity to rest, it can help you get to where you need to be without getting weighed down by too much gear.
Look for products that are large and include a seat that can be reclined almost flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some of them include 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 comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is particularly beneficial for newborns and infants who don't yet have the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats have stowable footrests that allow your baby to relax in a different manner.
The majority of strollers come with the option of a tray for children which is useful for storing toys and snacks. The best models have a tray that is attached to the back of your seat so you aren't worried about it falling off when you are moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles as well as sippy cup holders. The pockets are easily accessible for children, which means they will not spill their drinks while moving.
It is also important to examine the restraint mechanism on the stroller, which can help keep your child's position. The ideal is a five-point harness that is secured at the shoulders, waist and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure by adults, but difficult for children to take off. It's 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 car seat frames. This makes them a good option for families who use public transport. If you plan to only use the stroller occasionally it is possible to choose one that is lightweight and has fewer bells, whistles, and features.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller, to check the hinges and any other nooks or crevices that could pinch little fingers. Although these accidents aren't common however, they do happen and you don't want to gift your child a fingertip amputation. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and make sure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than a means of transport for your child. It's a method of carrying all the things you need for your family on-the-go including food, diapers toys, and more. That's why it's important to pick a stroller with plenty of storage space to organize everything.
How much storage you need will depend on your lifestyle and baby's age. If you plan to use your stroller for long walks as your child grows, you will need more storage space for diaper bags, snacks and extra clothes. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your baby stroller for short trips around town, then a smaller storage basket may suffice.
A majority of the top baby strollers have many storage options built-in. For example, the UPPAbaby MINU includes an ample storage basket with a pop-out sunshade as well as brakes that are one-step. It features a quick, nearly seamless fold that is easy to carry with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.
There are also storage options in the form pockets, trays and other attachments. For example the Bugaboo Organizer is an open-top bag that can be easily tucked into your stroller to provide space for necessities such as water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with insulated bottles pockets as well as an exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
A stroller caddy is another storage option. While they're not an essential feature of every stroller however, they can be an excellent way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are sized to fit specific stroller models, while others come with an universal attachment, to ensure they're compatible with most strollers.
Other storage options to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items like toys or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder is also a nice feature to have as it will help you stay hydrated during your strolls and help you keep your hands clear when walking with your baby.
Style & Colour
There are a variety of strollers available and you have to determine what features are important to you. Do you require a light stroller that can fold easily into your car, or one with big wheels to help you navigate bumpy sidewalks. How long do you plan to use it, and do you need a stroller that is easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable covers made of fabric which can be washed by a machine and is a great feature to have if your susceptible to spills or double pushchair travel system, mouse click the up coming website, other dirt. You might want to consider the sun shade or handlebar which can be adjusted to your height. Some models also have a reclining chair and a footrest so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and about.
If you're looking for a stroller which can grow with your family, think about a travel system. They are a great choice for newborns since they usually come with an infant car seat that can be used as early as day one. Some even have a bassinet option for newborns, while others allow you to include a toddler car seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.
Color is another thing to take into consideration. If you are one of those who are sensitive to gender-biased blue and pink shades, you might prefer not to use them in your pushchair stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller that is neutral which is more flexible and will look great with any outfit.
A baby stroller is essential for all new parents however, with the many options available it can be a challenge to decide which stroller is the best one for you. The suggestions above will help you narrow your choices so that you can choose the perfect stroller that fits your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor Rachel Rothman, Family and Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from applied mathematics and mechanical engineering and her work has appeared in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City with her three children who are 7 and under.
Safety
You'll want to know that your stroller is safe regardless of whether you're taking the baby on a walk or shopping. It must meet the minimum standards set by AS/NZS standards, which cover material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a wide base and a seat that's low in the frame, so that it doesn't fall over when you place your child in or out of it. The seat should be secured using a crotch belt. Avoid hanging bags and other objects from the handle, as this may cause the stroller to slide backwards. It is best to ensure that the stroller is free of objects that could get caught in fingers of children or create a choking hazard and ensure that the brake lever isn't within reach of children.
It's worth checking that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism to prevent it from folding in the wrong direction while in use, and can be locked by pressing an appropriate button on the handlebar or the dashboard. It's important to register your stroller so that the manufacturer can send you any safety alerts.
Another thing to consider is how it is easy to clean the stroller's fabric since toddlers and babies tend to leave a mess. Make sure you choose a stroller travel that has washable fabrics to withstand baby food, snot, and dirty prints.
You should consider purchasing a stroller that includes adaptors or will accommodate those purchased separately if you plan to use your car seat. This will allow you to safely transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
If you're unsure of which features to pick an expert in safety can help. On the internet, you'll find a lot of information on safe stroller use. This includes information on how to pick and use the correct stroller for you and your family. Remember to secure your child every time, even when they're sitting in the stroller, and be sure that all safety straps are secured. Doctors in emergency rooms have reported that they've seen a number of injuries caused by children who are injured in strollers and baby carriers.