So, when buying a baby stroller, here are the major points to consider:
Safety Features – Above all else, make sure the stroller you have your eye on meets basic safety requirements. There are 3 main points to consider so consider strollers that have the following;- Five Point Harness – Five-point harnesses are relatively standard these days, but some umbrella strollers may skimp with a three-point harness. Test the snaps to make sure they’re secure and easy to buckle.
- Sturdy Construction – You won’t log many miles with flimsy wheels — they can get stuck on uneven terrain (including bumpy sidewalks) and are more prone to snapping.
- Locking Brakes – Be sure to test how easy the brakes are to use — and how easy they are to trip, too. Do you find yourself hitting the brakes when you don’t intend to? Do the brakes offer a secure stop? Can you easily disengage the brakes when you’re ready to roll on?
Manoeuvrability – Consider how easily the stroller can be pushed and turned, especially if you'll be using it in tight spaces or on uneven terrain. Once you’ve done some research and narrowed down your choices, it’s smart to do a test drive in person, so you can see how your favourites compare — consider that a flat and shiny store floor may not reveal how a particular model will do on uneven sidewalks or hilly terrain. Can you steer it smoothly? Can you manoeuvre it with one hand? How does it handle a tight turn?
Storage – Babies come with a lot of gear, look for a stroller with ample storage space for your baby's essentials, such as a diaper bag and bottles. A stroller with a large undercarriage to hold items will make your life much easier on the go.
Weight and Portability – Consider how easily the stroller can be folded and how heavy it is, especially if you plan on traveling with it or lifting it in and out of a car trunk. You’ll likely be holding baby — and more — when you need to fold or unfold the stroller, so easier is better. Many models tout a one-hand fold, but try before you purchase — not all one-handed folds are as easy as they sound.
Compatibility – Check if the stroller is compatible with infant car seats, if you are looking for a travel system. Look at the safety ratings for the car seat, and check out how the car seat attaches to the stroller. Is it an easy-to-use, one-click system? Are there a lot of straps or an adapter involved? You want it to be as simple and straightforward as possible!
Durability – Look for a stroller that is made with high-quality materials and has a solid warranty. Reputable brands are reputable for a reason and a well-made stroller will last you in the long run
Adjustability – Make sure the stroller can be adjusted to fit your growing child, with reclining seats, adjustable footrests, and adjustable handlebars. How deep does the seat recline? If you’re planning to put a newborn into the stroller, look for models that offer a flat recline or bassinet attachment.
Lifestyle – This is where lifestyle comes in. Do you anticipate heavy near-daily use? Or do you need a stroller simply for occasional outings? Other lifestyle factors to consider: Can you transport your stroller via the car? Or, will you be lugging it through the metro during the peak hours? Answering these types of questions can help you figure out whether you should gravitate towards more basic, lightweight models — or if you can swing a heavier model with all of the bells and whistles.
Family Size – Finally, consider your ideal family size. If you ultimately plan to have more than one child, it often makes sense to make a larger investment on a model that can eventually accommodate more children. Though you’ll have to be able to stomach the bigger price tag now, it’ll ultimately save you from having to buy more than one stroller.
Price – Compare prices and features of different strollers to find one that fits your budget and needs. Perhaps you'd prefer to have an umbrella (nicknamed as it opens like an umbrella) stroller for the road, but a full-sized model for busy days in the neighbourhood. For some families, one stroller just doesn’t cover all the bases, no matter how cleverly designed. If that’s the case, consider splitting your stroller budget rather than investing heavily in one. You might need a full-size model for home and a separate umbrella stroller for travel.
