5 Laws That Will Help The Baby Stroller Industry

Choosing a Baby Stroller

When you're on the move, a stroller for your baby is a great option to get your child. In addition to giving your back a break, it also helps you get there where you need to go without being overwhelmed by the weight of all your gear.

Look for products that are large and include a seat that can be reclined nearly flat. (Newborns still require neck support). Some include an infant bassinet, a travel pram system or both.

Seating

A stroller's seat is one of the most important features since it's where your baby will spend a lot of time. Find a comfortable, wide seat that allows your child to stretch and relax. Some seats recline, which is particularly useful for infants and newborns who aren't yet equipped with the neck strength needed to sit up. Some seats feature stowable feetrests that let your child relax in a different manner.

Most strollers come with a tray for children that can be used to store toys and snacks. The best models have the tray that is attached to the side of your seat so that you don't have to worry whether it falls off while you move. Some jogging strollers have pockets for passengers to stow, which are handy for holding sippy cups and bottles. The pockets are easy for kids to reach, so they won't spill their drinks while moving.

It is also worth considering the stroller's restraint system which will keep your child secure. Ideally, you'll need a five-point harness that secures at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs. The buckles must be easy to fasten for adults and difficult to take off for children. It's important to test the stroller with and Baby carriages without your child. It should be comfortable and easy to push, even over rough terrain.

Some strollers are compatible with infant car seats or car seat frames. This makes them a good choice for families that use public transportation. However, if you plan to use your stroller only occasionally, you may want an easy stroller that has fewer bells and whistles.

Take the time when shopping for a stroller to inspect the hinges and any other nooks and crannies that could cause little fingers to be snagged. These incidents are not common, but they occur. You don't want your child be a victim of amputation of the fingertip. Be aware of the stroller's ability to fold and ensure it fits in your trunk.

Storage

A stroller is more than a means to transport your baby. It's also a great way to transport all the things you'll need for your whole family, such as diapers as well as food, toys and more. It's the reason you should select a stroller that has plenty of storage space to organize everything.

The amount of storage you require will depend on both your lifestyle and the age of your baby. For instance, if you'll be taking your stroller on long walks as your child becomes an adult, you'll require more space for a fully-stocked diaper bag, snacks, and extra clothing and water bottles. On the other the other hand, if you'll be using your stroller for shorter trips around town, then a smaller storage basket may suffice.

A majority of the top baby strollers have plenty of storage options built in. The UPPAbaby MINU for instance features an ample storage basket and a sunshade that pops out, and one-step breaks. It features a quick and seamless fold that is simple to handle with one hand while carrying the baby or shopping.

Stroller storage can also be found in tray, pockets and other attachments. The Bugaboo Organizer, for example, is a zip-top pouch that is perfect for your stroller and lets you store essentials such as water, snacks and diapers. It also comes with bottles with insulated pockets as well as exterior slip pockets to keep small items like keys and wallet within reach.

A stroller caddy is another storage option. They're not standard features on every stroller, but they're a great method of keeping it organized and tidy without adding extra weight or bulk. Some are designed to fit specific stroller models while others come with an universal attachment, so that they're compatible with a wide range of 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, and not take up space in the basket. A cup holder can be an excellent feature since it allows you to remain hydrated while strolling with your baby and helps keep your hands free.

Style and Colour

There are a myriad of strollers to choose from, and you need to decide what features are important to you. Do you need a lightweight stroller that folds easily into your car or with big wheels to aid you on bumpy streets. How long do you plan to use it, and do you need a stroller that's easy to clean and maintain?

Some strollers have removable covers for fabric which can be machine washed. This is a great option if you are susceptible to spills and other dirt. Other features to consider include sun shade as well as a handlebar that adjusts to your height. Some models include an reclining chair as well as the footrest, so your baby can relax while you are out and out and about.

If you're looking for a stroller which can adapt to your family, consider a prams travel system system. These are great options for infants, since they include a baby seat and can be used right away. Some even have an option for a bassinet to be used by newborns and some allow you to add a toddler seat when your child is ready to go on a ride.

Another thing to think about is the color. Some people are sensitive to gender-specific colours of blue and pink, and if you're one of them, you may prefer not to use these colors for your stroller. You might also think about getting a stroller with neutral colors that is more adaptable and will look great with any outfit.

It is crucial for new parents to have a stroller for their baby, but there are so many kinds of strollers available that it can be difficult to select the best one. The suggestions above will help you narrow your options to find the best stroller for your needs and lifestyle.

Good Housekeeping's Family & pushchair travel system Editor Rachel Rothman has decades of experience reviewing and testing household products. She holds a degree in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering, and her work has been published in American Baby and Parenting magazines. She lives in New York City, with her three children aged 7 and under.

Safety

When you're taking your baby for a stroll or shopping, you want to be confident that the stroller you select is safe. It should meet minimum requirements set out by the AS/NZS standards, which cover material, construction performance, safety and performance warnings.

Look for a wide base and a seat that is low in the frame, so it won't easily tip over when you put your child in or out of it. The seat should also be secured using a strap for the crotch. Avoid hanging bags and other items from the handles, which could cause the stroller slide backwards. It is best to keep the stroller free of any parts that could irritate fingers of children or create the risk of choking, and always check the brake lever isn't within reach of children.

Make sure that the stroller is equipped with a locking mechanism which prevents it from folding when it is in use. It is possible to lock the stroller by pressing a button on the handlebars or dashboard. By registering your stroller, you allow the manufacturer to send you any safety updates.

The fabric of the stroller is important to consider, as children and babies are notorious for their mess. Pick a stroller with washable fabrics that can withstand infant food, snot and dirt-stained prints.

If you plan to use a car seat with your stroller, consider choosing a model with adaptors that are included or that can accommodate adaptors bought separately. This will enable your child to be safely transported from the car to the stroller and back.

A certified safety expert will assist you if you're unsure of the features you should choose. Online, you can get a wealth of information on safe stroller use. This includes advice on how to pick and use the right 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 secured. Children in strollers and carriers are often injured by emergency room physicians.