Baby Strollers

How Do I Choose A Baby Stroller?

When you begin searching for the perfect baby stroller, you need to consider your family's lifestyle. What do you like to do? Are you a jogger? Do you take leisurely walks around the block? Do you plan on leaving your stroller in your vehicle all of the time? Are you having a multiple birth? Do you already have a toddler, or are you planning on more children in the near future? Once you've answered these questions, you may be a little closer to deciding on the stroller that is right for you and your child.

What Features Should I Look For?

Whether you are purchasing a new or used stroller for your baby, there are some features you want to look for. Some are safety features, while others are strictly convenience items.

Safety Features

1. Brakes-Whatever stroller you choose should have a good brake system. The brakes should be easy to use, and they should be in good working order.
2. Seatbelts-The stroller you choose should have a good seatbelt/restraint system. Many strollers have the five-point harness that is similar to a car seat. This is especially important in a jogging stroller. Make sure the buckles or latches are easy to use.

Convenience Features

1. Opening Mechanism-If you've ever tried to open an unfamiliar stroller, you may have discovered that you need an engineer to figure this out! Look for a stroller that can easily be opened and closed with one hand. Your other hand will be occupied with your baby!
2. Storage Basket and Cup Holder-Even small umbrella strollers can have handy storage baskets under the stroller and cup holders for baby cups and bottles, as well as Mom's drink. These are little things, but they are important. Trust me!
3. Fabric Choices-Strollers will get dirty. This is a fact. Your child may eat, drink, drool, spit-up, etc. in her stroller. You may roll the stroller through dust, dirt, mud, water, etc. Look for strollers that have removable and washable fabric seat covers. You'll be glad you did!
4. Adjustable Handles-Many strollers have adjustable handles. If this is important to you, be sure you look for this feature.

What Types of Baby Strollers are Available?

There are several different types of strollers available. You may find that you need a couple of different strollers for various reasons. Some parents like to keep a stroller in their car and another in the house for walks in the neighborhood.

Standard Strollers

These strollers are generally heavier and sturdier than umbrella strollers. They are generally roomier and offer more reclining variations. They typically have more storage space, too. However, they do take up more room and are bulkier to use, especially when traveling.

Umbrella Strollers

These strollers are lightweight and easy to carry. They are great to use when traveling, as most of these can be carried on to an airplane. However, they are not practical for newborns as they don't offer much support.

Travel System Strollers

These strollers are comprised of a stroller and an infant car seat that fits into the stroller. The car seat can easily be removed from the stroller and placed in a car. These seats are for infants smaller than twenty pounds, although the stroller can then be used as the child continues to grow. They generally have lots of storage space. However, they tend to be large and cumbersome.

Jogging Baby Strollers

If you are an avid jogger or walker, you will probably want to purchase one of these strollers. They typically have one large front wheel and two wheels on the back. They are built to give baby a smooth ride even when you are jogging. However, they can be difficult to fold and store, and a good jogging stroller can be quite expensive.

Multiple Child Stroller

These baby strollers are great for parents who have more than one small child. They work for multiple children, such as twins and triplets, and for sets of children who are both babies and toddlers. With a multiple stroller, one parent can take the children for a stroll. However, these strollers are difficult to fold and store because of their size, and they can be harder to maneuver in busy stores.

How Much Money Should I Spend?

Finally, as you've probably already discovered, you can spend as much or as little money as you like. There are all types of strollers at varying prices. Some of these prices are based on features, while others are based on construction and/or brand names. Just remember, before you buy, consider how you will primarily be using the stroller, take a look at your budget, and comparison shop.

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