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Here’s a complete guide on strollers, its various features, and the factors that you need to consider before buying a stroller
“I’ve conquered a lot of things. Blood clots in my lungs- twice…knee and foot surgeries…winning grand slams being down match point…to name just a FEW but I found out by far the hardest is figuring out a stroller!” – Serena Williams’ tweet after welcoming her daughter Alexis Olympia.
One parent replied to this tweet saying:
“I remember one day in a parking garage, a guy waited for my space for almost 40 minutes until I could figure how to collapse the Stoke pram. Stress doesn’t do my feelings justice!!”
Many parents (and moms-to-be) can totally relate to the struggles of these parents.
This is why we have put together this guide to help you understand the various features of a stroller and to help you choose the right stroller for your needs.
A stroller is a useful baby gear that makes it so easy to move babies and toddlers around. Carrying children in your arms all the time is just not practical; while some men may be able to do it, its quite exhausting (and back-breaking) for most women.
Equally challenging is finding the right baby gear. Most parents have a real hard time finding the best and the cheapest Baby Strollers online because there are so many options out there.
That is why we have put it all together for you to find the right stroller.
Top Benefits of Using a Stroller
Here are top benefits of using a baby stroller and why you absolutely need one.
Strollers are meant for transporting your baby from one place to another. It is a convenient transporting system that will not require you to carry your baby in your arms while you are traveling.
If you carry your baby, just after a few minutes itself, you will realize that it starts putting pressure on your back and then it really hurts.
The result is that you will either cut short your walk, or you will skip that shopping that you wanted to do at the grocery shop on the way. Even the thought of wading through a crowded mall with the kids in hand can give any parent a panic attack.
But with Strollers, it is easy; and if you have twins or a couple of babies, it’s even more helpful.
Strollers nowadays have a lot of features and offer lot of customizations which makes it very convenient for the caretaker as well as the child.
You can even add additional accessories in order to make your strolling convenient.
A stroller also ensures your kids are safely seated in the stroller, when you wade through crowded streets.
Babies love the gentle stroll and find the ride very soothing; because the seats recline, they easily go off to sleep when seated in the stroller.
You can even go for a long walk or for jogging with a stroller.
So, there are many benefits of owning a stroller.
However, finding the perfect stroller can be a challenge, with so many varieties available.
Its also quite possible that you may need to upgrade to another stroller after some time, or probably buy an additional stroller.
Types of Strollers
Various Kinds of Strollers
Although the basic purpose of a stroller remains the same, you will find several types of strollers on the market today.
You will find lightweight stroller that folds down easily and can be tossed into the car and is easy to travel with, a travel system that allows you to connect a car seat to the stroller base, or a jogging stroller which is ideal for people who want to get outside with their kids and not worry about strolling on uneven terrain. There are also multi-child strollers.
Read: Various types of strollers explained
Own One or Multiple Strollers?
One question that many parents have is whether is it possible to use just one stroller until the child is grown up and no longer needs a stroller?
Well, it depends on any things.
As your child grows, their needs will also change. So, you should choose products as per the baby’s needs.
For instance, consider splitting your baby’s needs into the following two categories:
Car-seat Strolling from birth to 6 months
From birth up-to 6 months is the time when the baby lacks strength to hold their neck straight and firmly.
There are very few strollers which have fully reclined seat (angle less than 10 degrees) and you should never place the baby in a seat with higher sleeping angles.
With an infant car seat and a bassinet however, you can use the stroller right from when the baby is born.
As per Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the best place for a baby (infant) to sleep is on a flat surface. Babies should always be placed to sleep on their back and things like blankets, pillows, or other items should not be added to an infant’s sleeping environment.
So what are you options?
You can use a car seat stroller frame which is a bare bones stroller (just the chassis) on which the infant car seat snaps or locks into. A stroller frame is lightweight, cheaper, easier to manage, and simplifies things in the first few months, giving you ample time to figure out what stroller to buy for the long term.
Now, you could also buy a regular stroller. For example, you could buy a travel system that comes with infant car seats, or you could buy a stroller and buy a separate car seat adapter for it (in case you already have an infant car seat), or you could buy a stroller that accepts an infant car seat or a bassinet (in case you already own one).
However, a standardized stroller is bulkier and more expensive than a car seat frame, and you need to be clear about what features and functions you require.
Even though a minimum weight is indicated on most jogging strollers (around 5 pounds on most jogging strollers), you should ideally wait for the child to have more developed back and neck (typically requires 6 to 9 months) in case you intend to start jogging. It is best to consult a doctor on this.
Standard-size Strolling from 6 months to 3+ years
Once your baby crosses 6 months, they can hold their neck straight. So, a standardized stroller is now suitable which can be used even when your baby is 3+ years old.
You still need to think over how you intend to use the stroller. That way, you can choose a stroller with the right set of features and make full use of it.
Do check out the Various types of strollers to understand what could be a suitable stroller for your needs.
So, can parents manage with just one stroller (or they really need multiple strollers)?
While there are several good strollers available on the market that are promoted as the ‘one stroller’ that you will ever need, and even if you own one of those, there will be times when you wish you had a different kind of stroller (probably a lighter one or an all-terrain one).
That is why many parents buy a good stroller frame (for car seat) until their baby is 6-12 months, after which they buy a full sized stroller.
There are many parents who upgrade their stroller over time. Many parents also own a couple of strollers: a lightweight stroller for errands and a jogging stroller.
Having said that, there are some really versatile strollers (usually in the mid to high price range) that allow a lot of customizations and can be used from birth till your child outgrows it.
Related:
Stroller Features and Functions
Strollers come with several features and functions, which you should get familiarized with, in case you are looking for a stroller.
Strollers nowadays offer lot of customizations such as various seating positions, adjustable handles, easy to fold/unfold, ability to extend the canopy, more storage beneath the seat, etc.
You can go through the various stroller functions and features here.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Stroller
When evaluating strollers, you need to consider how you’ll use them in the real world.
Questions to ask before buying a stroller.
Where will you using the stroller? City, suburbs, the country? How do you mostly get around from place to place? Car, public transport or walk?
Many a times you need to stand in a queue and you don’t want to be holding up the line, so does the stroller fold quickly and simply?
Will you be frequently getting this stroller in and out of the car? How big is your car and boot space? Small, medium or large? Will it be easy to get in and out of the car trunk?
How will you be using the stroller – indoors (mall), outdoors like rough terrain or jogging. What kind of terrain will you be strolling on? Will you be driving it around on cobblestone and dirt and grass. Is it just for shopping / running errands or will you be jogging/ going for long walks? Maybe a bit of everything.
Maneuverability is the key if you will spend a lot of time outdoors and the wheels should be smooth and responsive. If you require a stroller only for short errands, an umbrella stroller could suffice.
Do you want a stroller your twins can grow into? Do you plan on having another baby in the next 1-3 years? Will you need a Triple Stroller in future?
How much is the width of your doorway at home, the width of your elevator at home, how big is your entryway? How often will you be carrying your stroller (through stairs, or on the subway)? Where do you plan on keeping the stroller? Trunk, closet or basement? How much space you have at home to store strollers?
Here are some more important factors to consider when buying a stroller:
Is the stroller sturdy and safe?: Child’s safety is the most important thing when using a stroller. So make sure the stroller looks sturdy, has good brakes, is equipped with the appropriate restraint system, and is free from any sharp edges. Read more stroller safety tips here.
Does the Stroller Have an Adjustable Seat?: An adjustable seat where you can alter the recline angle will be more comfortable for the child. Newborns require seat that recline to a near flat position.
Can the Stroller Accommodate Your Car Seat?: There are strollers that can accommodate an infant car seat (some may require an adapter).
Folding Mechanism – How easy is the stroller to open and close? – There are some strollers that can be folded using just one hand, but ideally any stroller should open using two hands with a relatively small force. Anything more than that is a big no. Go to the store, and try out opening and closing your favorite stroller to be fully convinced.
Do you require adjustable handlebars? – Adjustable handlebars can be quite useful, depending on how tall or short you are.
How big is the storage space on the Stroller? – Compact strollers may have limited storage space compared to the bigger sized strollers. Any other storage space (on the sides) should be considered a bonus. You can use accessories like stroller organizer to increase storage space.
How is the padding? – Stroller seat should be nicely padded and should be easy to clean. Look for a stroller with removable fabric seat covers. You can also buy separate seat liners with different colors and fabrics.
Does it have a decent-sized canopy? – Canopies protect from sun and light rains. Ideally, bigger is better but more compact strollers may come with a smaller sized canopies.
How are the Streel Wheels? – Do you need a stroller for normal use or for off-roading or for jogging? You will need a stroller with the right kind of wheels.
How easy is the stroller to Maneuver? – Another important factor when choosing a stroller is the maneuverability of the stroller. Ease of movement of the stroller depends on its weight, wheels, brakes and overall construction.
Needs to be Comfortable – Watch out for options that will make your child much more comfy while traveling in the stroller. Examples of these are comfortable padding; reclining seats (makes for easier napping); canopies to protect and against sun, rain, and wind; cup holders and bins for snacks.
Is the stroller expandable? – Single strollers that have the ability to convert to a double are more practical and useful. Look for a stroller that can grow with your family, so that it can accommodate an additional child. Here are top ways to convert single baby stroller into a double
Importance of Great Design and Versatility
Well-designed products are those that strike a good balance between beauty and performance. A gear should look pleasing to the eye but it should also be a blessing to use. It should be relevant, should solve problems for the child and the caregiver, and it should give both the parent and the child the confidence to explore the world.
Products with great design are high-quality products that have longevity, classic style, reliable, easy to maintain, repair and, in today’s world, they need to be recycled as well.
Outdoor fun and exercise using a Stroller
While its great to be able to go outdoor (once again) after having a baby, there is much more that you can do using a stroller than just walk. Here are top ways to get some outdoor fun and exercise with a stroller.
Commuting and Stroller Parking Challenges
When you buy a stroller, you also need to think about where you are going to park it.
Are you going to fold it and keep in your apartment?
Are you going to leave it in the hallway or the lobby of the building?
Even when you go outdoors, it may not be easy to find parking space for your stroller. Also, consider the challenges that you’re likely to face when commuting with a stroller.
So, these are additional factors that you probably may need to think about.
Reasons That Lead to Stroller Regret for Parents
Picking the right type of stroller is important so that it remains useful for a long time.
Here are some common reasons that leads to regret after buying a stroller.
Bought a Heavier Stroller
Parents are generally aware that some strollers can be heavy but tend to underestimate the weight factor and assume that somehow they will be able to manage the stroller.
However, later, many parents wish they had bought a lighter stroller.
Most modern strollers use better materials and engineering nowadays that allow for comparatively lightweight strollers.
Stroller was not Future Ready
A convertible stroller, although expensive, can be a worthwhile investment, in case you’re planning another child in the future.
I know some parents who bought a standard single stroller, and the very next year the mom got pregnant.
Well, they really wished they had a double stroller or a versatile one that could be converted into a double.
Besides, some strollers when converted into a double, puts the kids in an awkward position. On some strollers, one child could literally be sitting under his sibling.
Convertible strollers are well designed and versatile, so do consider buying one if you’re not sure about your future plans.
Stroller doesn’t get used as much
This is another remorse that some parents have; the stroller that they bought doesn’t get used much.
In one case, the child really didn’t enjoy being seated in the stroller because the seat didn’t have a footrest. In another case, the parent bought an expensive jogging stroller but never really went out jogging enough.
Use Stroller Accessories
Like a particular model but it doesn’t have some feature? You can consider buying an accessory separately rather than rejecting the model altogether.
You can get more out of your stroller by using suitable accessories.
Some strollers may not offer adequate storage space or canopy size. However, stroller accessories can help overcome these issues.
Snack tray, canopy, Storage bag, organizer, are available that can be attached to most strollers. You can even attach a board or an extra seat to a single stroller that will allow you to accommodate another child on the stroller.
Which Stroller to Buy?
Now that you are aware of the various types of strollers, its various features, and the factors that you need to consider before buying a stroller, you can check out the bestselling strollers within various types of strollers.
Its best to focus on your requirements and buy something that suits your needs, rather than carried out with the bells and whistles which can end up increasing the price of the stroller substantially.
Related: why parents are under pressure to buy expensive strollers.
You may also need to plan ahead and start saving for a stroller. A good convertible stroller costs around $300 to $500 (even more) so even if you save $60 per month, you should be able to fund you dream stroller in 6-7 months.
You can even consider buying a used stroller in order to find high-end strollers at more affordable prices.
In case you’re travelling, consider renting a stroller.
Stroller Accessories and Parts
Useful Stroller Accessories
Make your next outing more comfortable using stroller accessories. Increase the life of your stroller using replacement/spare parts.
You can add additional accessories in order to make your strolling convenient and to get more out of your stroller.
Carrying Your Baby is An Option
In case you are still wondering if you really need a stroller, then the other option is to carry/wear your baby in a baby carrier. It leaves your hands free, your baby feels comfortable, and it is much cheaper than a stroller.
Related: Read more on baby carriers.
Closing Thoughts
While a lot of manufacturers claim that their stroller is the perfect solution for parents, its not really true. Its very difficult for any one stroller to satisfy each and every parent.
That is why most parents end up with multiple strollers.
For example, the heavier strollers are usually more durable, glide more smoothly, and deal better with rough terrain, but the downside is that they are cumbersome in narrow aisles, do not fit easily small trunks, and difficult to take through stairs.
Lighter strollers, on the other hand, are easier to maneuver, lift, and store, but don’t work great when you go off-roading with them.
And most parents deal with both the scenarios on a regular basis.
So one solution to this problem is to get an all-purpose stroller that’s a good compromise and will work in most situations. And the other option is to get different strollers for different requirements.
So with all these useful tips, short-listing and finding the best baby strollers should be much easier.
Related: Stroller Warranty, why you should register your stroller
Prams & Strollers – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) of parents related to strollers.
Difference Between Stroller (Pushchairs) and Pram/Carriages
A pram usually refers to a baby carriage that has flat bottom and is designed to carry newborns and younger babies in lying position.
However, many strollers (or pushchair) nowadays come with seats that can fully recline or you can attach a bassinet to make it suitable for infants.
Does type of stroller affect baby’s development?
A study suggests that the kind of stroller/buggy you buy can have an affect on the baby’s development.
It says that buggies in which babies can see their parent are the best, it gives them the best start in life. Parents using face-to-face buggies were more than twice as likely to be talking to their child. Mothers and infants also laughed more often in face-to-face strollers. Babies are also more relaxed in a parent-facing buggy and are more likely to fall asleep in this orientation.
Q. When to make your child sit in the forward facing seat?
Read here to know when to place your child in the forward facing mode of the stroller.
Q. Is this stroller appropriate for a newborn?
When choosing a stroller particularly for newborns, you have to be certain that it is appropriate for your baby. The seat must recline fully to allow your baby to lie flat. You can also use a bassinet or an infant car seat with the stroller.
Q. Is a second hand stroller acceptable for my baby?
For the most part yes, a second-hand stroller is acceptable for use. Before you purchase the stroller be sure to inspect it thoroughly.
Q. Where can I find out about recalls on my stroller?
You can contact the manufacturer or search the Internet for information. You can contact the Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) or check consumer magazines dedicated to informing consumers on the ratings of many products.
Q. How long to most strollers last?
The lifespan of a stroller depends on the quality of the stroller and how well you maintain it. Wheels and fabric may wear off after few years.
To keep your stroller in good condition, check the wheels, belts and fasteners periodically to be sure they are not worn or broken. Keep the seat cover clean. Apply the brake and make sure it works when fully applied.
Its comparatively easy to find some replacement parts. The best source for this information is usually the manufacturer. Check the owner’s manual to see if there is information in there on replacement parts and where you can get them.
Getting your stroller serviced regularly can help keep the stroller in good condition through multiple babies.
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StrollerBoards is a family managed website with me (Ben) and my wife doing most of the work. We are proud parents of two wonderful kids and love reviewing baby travel gear. We have a firm but friendly “democratic parenting” style and offer several practical solutions backed by extensive research. Our own experience with raising two children prompted us to share our knowledge. Read more.
Most parents go for strollers in the range $10 to $400 and higher. The lower end strollers are generally the lightweight umbrella strollers. Easy folding and storage give these strollers an advantage. High prices for a stroller could indicate greater quality and better features.
Which would you want a convertible travel system or a stroller and a car seat? A travel system has a stay in the car base, a stroller frame to which the infant carrier/ car safety seat is attached. These are wonderful especially for your newborn baby.
A play tray that has places for a bottle or juice cup come with strollers. Many strollers come with canopies that have vinyl windows to let you keep an eye on the baby. Easily applied foot brakes that are attached to both rear wheels and a wrist strap brake that can be used together are included on most strollers.
While you have the strap on it gives you extra safety while you are stopped because the stroller can’t roll away. Strollers are now coming with a parent tray that fits over the handle bar as well as a large storage basket that fits under the seat(s). It has a holder for a cup of coffee or a soda, your cell phone, snack, and your keys.
Reversible handlebars that can be moved from front to rear or vice versa and are height adjustable are now on most strollers. The reversible handlebars can help you to see your baby while he rides if necessary and the height adjustable feature is a great back saver.
Will the seat recline enough, if it reclines, to allow your newborn to lie almost flat? Will the seat be comfortable for your baby and well padded? Can the seat padding be removed so it can be washed? Blankets that can be attached with snaps to the seat come on most upper end strollers
There is a variety of seating arrangements including tandem and side by seating as well as stadium seating which a variation of tandem seating where the rear seat is higher than the front allowing the second child to see more than just the back of a head.
Jogging strollers have a triangular wheelbase with one large one out in front and two in the rear. Jogging strollers also come with multiple seating. Used or new enjoy your outings with your baby or children.
Your baby’s stroller becomes like a bunting on wheels with these blankets. Your baby is protected from wind and harsh sunlight with the use of these detachable rain hoods.