Stroller Buyer's Guide
Before you start shopping for a stroller, the first thing you want to do is consider your specific needs. Of course, the safety and comfort of your baby is of top priority, but don’t forget to think about yourself, too. After all, you will be pushing the stroller and transporting it, which means that you want something that will work with your lifestyle and how you intend to use the stroller.
If you have a busy lifestyle and will need to fold the stroller up and stow it with ease, a lightweight stroller may be just the ticket for you. If you are expecting twins, or your first little one is going to be a big brother or sister, a double stroller may be a wise investment. However, do keep in mind you should also be mindful of the things you don’t intend on doing with the stroller. For instance, if you aren’t a jogger and you don’t plan on leaving paved ground, then a jogging or an all-terrain stroller probably isn’t the right choice for you (no matter how cool you think they are).
Types of Strollers
Travel Systems
If you’re an on-the-go parent and you want to get everything you need in one shopping trip, a travel system will suite you will. Combining an infant car seat and a stroller in one, a travel system can be used from infancy right through the toddler years.
The infant car seat locks right into the stroller, allowing you to easily transport your sleeping babe from car to stroller without disturbing her. Once baby is big enough for a convertible car seat, you can continue to use the stroller part of the travel system.
The biggest advantage of a travel system is you get the most bang for your buck. Buying an infant car seat and a stroller separately typically costs more when you purchase them together.
Jogging Strollers
If you are active and you want to remain active once baby arrives, a jogging stroller could be the right choice for you. These strollers typically feature big tires (think all-terrain wheels on an SUV) and are shock absorbent, making them easy to push on virtually all surfaces, and ensuring your baby’s comfort, whether you are on a flat road or a bumpy wooded path. These are great strollers if you plan on taking baby on lots of adventures.
Lightweight Strollers
These strollers are great for parents who are on the go, but who want to be able to provide baby with space and comfort. They are easy to open and fold. and because they are light, they are easy to transport when they are folded. Plus, they offers under seat storage where you can keep baby’s must-have items. There are even convertible lightweight strollers available, which switch from a carriage to seated stroller.
Umbrella Stroller
This is the lightest stroller of them all; even lighter than lightweight strollers. They are ideal for taking trips to parks, museums, malls or anywhere else where your toddler can walk, but may become tired and want a ride. They don’t have much structure and they usually don’t offer storage.
Double Strollers
Expecting twins or is your only child about to gain a sibling? If so, than a double stroller may be a wise investment for you. You’ll be able to tote both kids around in comfort in either the tandem or the side by side double stroller.
Features
While different strollers may have different features, there are certain features that are essential for safety and comfort. These features include:
Brakes
Whether they are controlled by a lever on the handle or they are applied by pushing them down behind the wheels, brakes are a vital feature for a stroller. They prevent the stroller from moving when they are applied, keeping baby safe and secure. Whatever type of stroller you purchase, the brakes should be easy to use and durable.
Leg Openings
The leg openings should be big enough to comfortably accommodate your little one’s legs, but not too big that he or she could potentially fall out of the stroller. For added comfort, look for a stroller which has padded leg openings.
5 Point Safety Harness
There should be a total of five straps in the stroller; one that will go over each shoulder, one that will go over each hip and one between the legs, where the straps will buckle. A five point harness will ensure baby remains safely seated inside the stroller.
Stability
The stroller should be firm and stable while it's being pushed as well as parked to ensure the baby’s comfort and safety, as well as your own comfort while pushing.
Locking Mechanisms
The stroller should have a locking mechanism that will prevent it from collapsing while in use. Check to make sure the locking mechanism is working properly before you purchase it and after you start using it.
Child/Parent Tray
These aren’t necessary features, however, they do make things a lot more convenient for both your child and you. A small tray that goes over baby’s lap can be used to hold drinks, snacks and toys, while a parent tray will sit near the handle.
Suspension System/Shock Absorbers
Just like a car, a stroller should have a good suspension system/shock absorbers. This feature will help to keep the ride comfortable for baby and make it easier for you to operate.
Adjustable Canopy
An adjustable canopy is vital for providing baby with shade while sitting in the stroller.
Height Adjustable Handle
Nobody is the same size and this feature will make it possible to change the height so the individual pushing the stroller can do so comfortably.
Storage Basket
A storage basket under the seat will allow you to conveniently store items like a diaper bag, jackets, and blankets. Look for one that's spacious and easy to access.
Multiple Seat Reclining Positions
There may be times when baby wants to see the world and others when he or she just wants to lay back and take a nap. You'll definitely want a seat offering baby multiple reclining positions.
Extra Options
Of course, there are added features which can make a stroller even more comfortable and easier to use.
Bunting
A lightweight fabric which can be laid over baby, providing additional warm.
Hand Muffs
Allow you to keep your hands warm while pushing the stroller.
Stylish Aesthetic Design
Usually a particularly unique color, pattern, or other design embellishments which allow the stroller to stand out from the crowd.
Lightweight Construction
A stroller frame made of lightweight material, like aluminum to make the stroller easier to push around.
Take it for a Test Drive
While it’s definitely convenient to shop for strollers online, you’re going to want to take a stroller for a test drive before you purchase it. All of the features you are looking for may be listed in the product description, but you won’t know if you’ll be comfortable using it until you actually take it for a spin.
While you’re on a test drive, try opening and folding the stroller. If it’s tough to open and close, you’re probably going to get frustrated. If you can easily set it up and fold it with one hand, you’ll be in the clear. You should also compare the brakes, the locking mechanism, and the maneuverability between different models to ensure ease of use and overall safety.
While the stroller is folded, pick it up and carry it to see whether transporting it is easy. If it’s too bulky and heavy for you, look for something made of a lighter material and more compact. Take notice of how you are standing while pushing the stroller. If you're hunched over, you’ll end up being uncomfortable when pushing it for long periods of time.
Also, if the stroller is going to be shared by two individuals make sure it's comfortable for both of you to use. A stroller that has a height adjustable handle is a wise choice if two or more people will be pushing it.
Shopping Online
If you are unable to test drive a stroller and will be making your purchase online, there are ways to learn details so that you can make the best informed decision. Visit the manufacturers websites to read a full product description and take note of the different features.
Check out any reviews posted by users to see what people who are using the stroller have to say about it. You can also check out photo galleries to get a better sense of the strollers overall design. Search for instructional videos that will show you how to operate the stroller and will show the stroller in action.
Safety Ratings
Safety is always the first priority when it comes to children. Though safety standards do change all the time, you want to purchase a stroller which complies with the most current standards. Check to make sure it has the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal (JPMA), as this will ensure the manufacturer followed specific safety standards.
Take a close look at the stroller for anything that may potentially harm your child. Check to see if there are any sharp edges or areas where the stroller could potentially pinch your child's skin, fingers, or toes. Check the size of the leg openings to make sure they aren’t too small and uncomfortable, or so big that your child will slip through.
Set a Budget
If you have an unlimited budget, than you may want to splurge on the stroller; however, it’s good to know that you don’t have to break the bank in order to purchase a stroller. Set a budget that you are comfortable with and keep it in mind while shopping. There’s no sense in spending more than you can afford because, especially since there are so many safe and comfortable strollers to meet every need and budget.
Warranties and Return Policies
Warranties and return policies are two more things you are going to want to check out. In the event your stroller malfunctions or breaks, a warranty will ensure you can have the stroller repaired, replaced or simply get your money back. Additionally know what the return policy is so you don't end up getting stuck with a stroller that you and/or baby aren't happy with.