Saturday, March 17, 2012

Tips For Shopping For A New Baby Stroller

By Kay Dalton


One of the most important things you can buy for your baby is his/her baby stroller, and you may sometimes have a hard time making a decision. Before you buy this item, make sure you have taken note of the following factors.

Safety

Before anything else, take safety into consideration. The stroller must not tip over if you place something on the handles, so make sure that it's stable. Some strollers have a container underneath where you can place heavy objects, so you may want to check these out. Choose the ones with removable containers so you can fold the item conveniently.

The harness should hold the child securely. For babies and young toddlers, choose a stroller with a five point harness. A three point harness, on the other hand, would be ideal for children 1 to 2, meaning older toddlers.

Comfort

Take note that this is your comfort, and not necessarily the baby's. Either get an adjustable stroller or make sure the height is one convenient for you and/or your spouse. The wheels should not hit your feet when you walk faster, and it should maneuver smoothly through the tightest corners.

Consider The Baby's Age

A young baby needs a reclining seat. There are convertible strollers that can recline for new babies but change over once he/she becomes a bit older. A baby will be happier facing you rather than facing the world, but not many strollers are designed for this.

Umbrella Strollers

Don't go for them - umbrella strollers are light in weight but just as "light" in features. You may want to bring them along if you're traveling because they can fold with little problem, but aren't too convenient in the long run.

Standard Strollers

A standard stroller will offer more options such as rain protection, ergonomic handles, storage baskets, larger wheels and possibly even a music system. They fold easily but are hard to lug around if you travel a lot. Crowded areas may pose some problems at times. Parents and babies alike, however, like the standard stroller more than others.

Jogging Strollers

Adventurous families benefit best from these types of strollers. All-terrain wheels and extra stability features make for a hardier ride. They are not recommended for babies under 6 months old.

Travel System

A travel system includes a baby car seat that fits into the stroller and into a base fitted to the car. This makes moving the child back and forth from car to stroller a snap. The travel system can be used as a standard stroller once the baby's older.

Strollers With Double Systems

You can choose from double systems if you have more than one child not yet old enough to walk. Both children seat next to each other in twin strollers. An alternative version has one seat placed behind the other - this is perfect for parents with one baby and one toddler.

An alternative to this is a sit-and-stand stroller where the toddler has a platform to stand on rather than a seat. This is great for the independent toddler who still needs to turn to you for assistance. How about this neat little trick - if you have two lightweight strollers, you can clip them together as necessary, but use only one if you need to. There are plenty of possibilities in the world of the baby stroller.




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