11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Baby Stroller
11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Baby Stroller
Blog Article
Choosing a Baby Stroller
A baby stroller allows you to carry your little one while you're on the move. In addition to giving your back a break, it also helps you get there where you need to be without being weighed down by too much gear.
Find products that are full-sized and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some of them include a bassinet, or travel system.
Seating
The seat of a stroller is crucial since your child will spend the majority of his time in it. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats have reclines that are particularly helpful for newborns and infants who don't have the neck strength to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that allow your baby to relax in a different way.
Most strollers offer an infant tray which is useful for storing snacks and toys. The top models have the tray that is attached to the seat's side and you don't need to worry about it falling off while moving. Some jogging walkers come with pockets for bottles and sippy cup holders. The pockets are easy to access to children, meaning they aren't likely to spill their drinks while moving.
You'll also want to take a look at the restraint system on the stroller, which will help secure your child in place. You should look for a five-point safety harness that is secured at the waist, shoulders and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to secure for adults and difficult for children to unbuckle. It is important to test the stroller both with and without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push even over rough terrain.
Some strollers can be used with infant car seats or car frame seats. This makes them a good choice for families that use public transport. If you intend to use your stroller just occasionally, you may prefer an ultra-light stroller that is less laden with bells and whistles.
Take the time when shopping for a stroller to inspect the hinges, and any other nooks and crannies which could irritate little fingers. Although these accidents are rare, they occur. You don't want your child to suffer a fingertip amputation. Pay attention to the stroller's ability to fold, and make sure it fits into your trunk.
Storage
A stroller is more than just a means of transport for your baby. It's a way to carry all the things you need for your family on-the-go, including diapers, food toys, and more. It is essential to choose a stroller with plenty of storage space to keep everything organized.
The amount of storage you require will depend on your lifestyle and the baby's age. For instance, if you'll use your stroller for long walks as your child develops into an adult, you'll require more space for a well-stocked diaper bag, snacks, extra water bottles and clothes. On the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for short trips around town, then an a smaller storage basket might suffice.
A majority of the top strollers for babies come with lots of storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU, for example features a large storage basket as well as a sunshade which can be removed, and a one-step breaks. It also features a simple close-seam fold that is easy to manage with just one hand while carrying a baby around or shopping for food items.
Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other accessories. The Bugaboo Organizer for instance is a zip-top bag that is perfect for your stroller and allows you to store essentials such as snacks, water, and diapers. It also has an insulated bottle pocket and external slip pockets that keep small items like keys and wallets in reach.
Another option for storage is a stroller caddy. While they're not the standard features of every stroller however, they can be a great way to keep your stroller neat and organized without adding any extra weight or bulk to your ride. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models, whereas others have an attachment that is universal to ensure they're compatible with a wide range of strollers.
Other useful storage features to look out for are pockets and side nettings that can be used to store small items such as toys or baby wipes, without taking up valuable space in the basket. A cup holder can be an important feature as it lets you stay hydrated while strolling with your child and keeps your hands free.
Style & Colour
There are a myriad of strollers on the market and you must decide what features are important to you. Do you require a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or one with big wheels to assist you in navigating bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it, and do you need a stroller that's easy to keep clean and maintain?
Some strollers come with removable fabric coverings that can be washed in the machine and is a great feature to have if your prone to spills or other dirt. Other features to consider are the sun shade and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to your height. Some models include an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can take a nap while you're out and out and.
Travel systems are a great option for families that want an infant stroller that can grow with them. These are great options for newborns, as they include a baby seat that can be used immediately. Some even come with a bassinet option for newborns as well as others that allow you to add a toddler seat for when your child is ready to ride.
Another thing to think about is color. Some people are sensitive to the gender-biased colors of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you might want to avoid these colors for your stroller. Consider a neutral, more versatile stroller that can be worn with any outfit.
It is vital for all new parents to have a stroller for their infants but there are a myriad of types of strollers that it can be difficult to pick the right one. The tips above will help you narrow your options so that you can find the best stroller for you and your lifestyle.
Rachel Rothman, Family & Travel Editor at Good Housekeeping, has years of experience in evaluating household products. She holds a degree from 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 under.
Safety
When you're taking your baby for a walk or going shopping, you need to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet the minimum requirements outlined by the AS/NZS standards, which address material, construction performance, and safety warnings.
Look for a seat with a low frame and a wide base to ensure that it doesn't fall over when you remove or put your child. The seat should be secured using a crotch strap. Avoid hanging bags or other items from the handle, as this can make the stroller go backwards. It is best to keep read more the stroller clear of parts that could pinch a child's fingers or pose the risk of choking and ensure that the brake lever is not accessible to children.
Verify that the stroller equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents it accidentally folding when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button located on the handlebars or dashboard. It's recommended to register your stroller to ensure that the manufacturer is able to send you any security alerts.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to clean the stroller's fabric, since toddlers and babies are prone to making messes. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand baby food, snot, and dirt-stained 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 transport your child from the car to the stroller, and then back again.
If you're not sure which features to choose an expert in safety can help. There's also plenty of information on safe stroller usage online with tips on choosing and using the right stroller for your family. Remember to buckle your child in every time, even when they are seated in the stroller, and make sure that all safety straps are properly secured. Children who ride in strollers or carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.