It is virtually impossible to manage your baby’s safety out and about without a good stroller (or pram) when travelling. This is the most important arsenal every parent should have. You will need a stroller for at least 3 years until a baby has grown enough to walk with you.
Why would you need a pram? That is because it is a safe and convenient way to travel with babies. Other than that it is easy to store and it is a long term permanent solution to the problem.. Importantly, it is also a hassle-free option to travel with a baby.
While it may sound pretty easy to pick a stroller for your baby, you really need to do the research to pick the right stroller..
Types of Strollers
There is a slight difference between pushchairs and a stroller. A pram indicates a flat sleeping surface while stroller means upright seat position for babies. Nowadays, most models have both options. So, you can adjust to position according to your needs.
Strollers have five major variants in the market. These include the following:
1.Layback Stroller
This is a popular variant for newborn babies. It allows both laydown and sit up position for babies. Most layback strollers are lightweight and relatively more affordable than the other variants.
- Jogger Stroller
Unlike other strollers, they have three wheels instead of four. As the name suggests it is uniquely designed for running or jogging. These variants are bulky and are not intended for use with newborns.
- Double Stroller
Having two different strollers for two babies can be difficult to handle. Here comes the importance of double strollers. Double strollers can be either side by side or tandem with seats that resemble car seats. Though it is a bit expensive but a convenient option to look after two babies at a time.
- Convertible Bike Strollers
It is a fusion of both a bike and a stroller. It allows you to enjoy cycling while carrying the baby comfortably. This stroller is also easy to navigate and can be used for your fitness purposes. Because it is versatile and a two-in-one type, this stroller category is on the more expensive side of things.
- Umbrella Stroller
This is the most popular lightweight foldable option. They have the curved handles on the top and water and stain resistant fabrics, and it bends more like an umbrella. Because of its folding facility, it is one of the best for public transit.
Features to Consider
Before buying a baby stroller, here are some features to consider.
- Wheels
Baby strollers can be either three wheels or four wheels. Four wheels generally have two small wheels in the front and two large wheels at the rear. Most strollers are four-wheel and it is foldable like umbrella strollers.
On the other hand, three wheels are heavier and wider than four wheels. Because of inflatable wheels, they can absorb bumps and are easy to maneuver. Besides, it is a better option for Krebs and stairs.
- Is it Newborn Suitable?
Not all strollers are perfect for newborn babies. If it is newborn suitable then the stroller has to have a bassinet attachment to the stroller. You can swap out the bassinet with a seat after a year of use. There are some strollers that can still be used after the baby grew more than 20 pounds.
Some strollers have reclining seats which can be converted to a bassinet in times of need. So, these dual actions can be important for the first six months of a newborn.
- Brakes
Brakes are important to lock the stroller and make it immobile. Try its brakes while you are pushing the handles. This will give you an idea of how well it can lock wheels and how fast it can be done.
It is possible to operate in a single action when the rear wheels are connected with each other. You can also find front brakes in some strollers. This is handy for reversible strollers.
- Canopy and Footrest
Canopies are adjustable shades that protect babies from Uv rays, wind and rain. Other than that, it provides great ventilation in hot weather. Babies are prone to dust particles and canopies minimizes the chance of dust exposure.
In case of the footrest, it eliminates the chance of tiny feet hitting the ground or front wheel.
- Shock Absorption
There are strollers with a good suspension system and can absorb shocks to protect babies. This is important as the babies have a delicate spine and can easily get injured even on small stress.
- Stroller Frame
Because of the frame the whole stroller gets bulky. So, opt for light frames yet durable to use. Also, look for frames that have folding mechanisms. That will save a lot of space during travel and in storage.
- Reversible Seat
It gives you more flexibility to change the direction of the baby seat. This feature allows parents to see the baby while they run a stroller.
- Adjustable backrest
There are strollers that can be adjusted from an upright position to a semi-reclined or fully reclined position. This versatile positioning assures more comfort for babies.
- Washable Fabric
Babies are masters in doing mess. So, look for fabrics that are washable or you can wipe it easily. Other than that, it must not shrink or fade upon washing.
- Five-point Harness
It is a restraint system for the baby’s security. It has a waist wrap, two shoulder straps, and a crotch strap with adjustable length. Also, look for a buckle that is easy to unhook.
- Stroller Bag
Stroller bags can be handy when you are traveling. It keeps the stroller neat and tidy. Also, you can store the stroller after usage.
- Cost
A baby stroller can cost from 100 dollars to over 1000 dollars. Depending on the brand and model, it can have two to three years of warranty on purchase.
- Safety Certification
Baby strollers sold in the USA must have a JPMA certified sticker for safety purposes. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association or JPMA measures all safety tests and ensures that the stroller checks all standards for the market.
Stroller Add Ons
Once you have picked the stroller, you can add some more accessories to this baby gear. Some of the common add ons are bug netting, a parasol, a rain cover and a drink holder. Though these extras will add to the total cost, they will bring more flexibility and safety for you and for your baby.
Baby stroller is a must-have for most parents. You should do extensive research and know everything you need to know about strollers, before you land the one you need. Proper knowledge and good information can guide you to the best option. Happy Stroller shopping! .
