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Baby Strollers Buying Advice

Your Perfect Guide to Stroller Shopping

Buying Guide for Baby Strollers

There is no doubt about it... a stroller simply is one of the handiest devices ever invented to get your baby out and about. Shopping for a stroller however, is one of the most difficult tasks facing new parents, simply because of the shear volume of strollers available.

Below we'll help you sort through the various styles and models of strollers available, so you can select the one that best suits your needs. Keep in mind while shopping that some families opt for two strollers, a lightweight or umbrella stroller to use when dashing out and a more durable model for long walks and strolls. Consider your short-term and long-term needs when shopping for a stroller, and you are abound to find one that meets your every expectation.

Traditional Strollers

Here are some points to keep in mind when considering this stroller:

• They are suited for infants and toddlers. The seats typically recline fully and sit upright.
• Often these models can carry infant car seats, so you have the added benefit of transferring your newborn baby from your car to your stroller rather easily.
• Most traditional models have extra room for storage.
• Typically can hold children up to 40 pounds.
• Usually have sturdy frames for heavy use.

These strollers are rewarding because they are practical, durable, suitable for younger and older babies and provide a smooth ride. They are also however considered big and bulky, thus are not convenient necessarily for frequent transport.

Double or Twin Strollers

Twin or double strollers as the name implies, hold two babies. These strollers typically come with all the bells and whistles traditional models come with. They are suitable for twins or for and infant and toddler.

Double strollers come in various models, including side-by-side, back-to-back, lightweight and jogging. Whether you select a side-by-side model or back-to-back is usually a matter of preference, though some parents have claimed the side-by-side model works best when both children are roughly the same weight.

Here are some things you should consider if looking at double strollers:

• Check to see if both seats recline. In some models like back-to-back or tandem models, only the rear seat reclines.
• Check to see if the stroller carries an infant carrier or two.

The biggest consideration when buying a double stroller is maneuverability. Some stroller's maneuver well, and others do not. Most of these models are larger, heavier and more expensive than their single counterparts. Many parents however, are happy to overlook this for the convenience of toting both children around at the same time.

Featherweight Models

Lightweight strollers or featherweight models are convenient for parents who plan to run many errands with kids in tow. Usually these models are 12 pounds or less, and are much cheaper than traditional models

Umbrella strollers fit into this category. These are small, compact strollers that fold like an umbrella. Most umbrella strollers are inexpensive and perfect for short trips to the grocery store. You should keep in mind however if considering these models the seats usually don't fully recline, so most babies have to be at least 5-6 months old before they can ride in them.

Lightweight strollers are a good alternative for parents looking for an inexpensive second model stroller. Here are some benefits of lightweight models:

The downside? Most of these models don't provide much padding thus are not as comfortable for children on long rides. Keep this in mind when considering lightweight models. Most parents don't opt for these as their primary stroller if they plan to walk long distances with their children.

Exercise and Jogging Strollers

These strollers are a great choice for fitness enthusiasts. Most jogging or exercise strollers are equipped with durable wheels for traveling gravel paths or uneven sidewalks. Many of these models are built with a fixed front wheel, so they can be hard to turn. Keep this in mind when shopping.

If you are plan to buy a jogging stroller, here are some considerations to keep in mind when buying:

• Most models are lightweight making them easy to tote around.
• Exercise strollers usually have a higher than average carrying capacity; many models can hold children up to 80 pounds.
• You may not be able to put an infant in a jogging carrier; most hold babies that are 6 months or older.
• The bigger wheels on an exercise stroller absorbs more shock and hold up better over time.

Travel Systems Strollers

Travel systems are deluxe model strollers that come with an infant car seat. These systems make traveling with a newborn easy. There are two choices when it comes to travel systems (1) the full package that comes with a stroller and car seat combined and (2) mix and match, which allow you to select your infant carrier and stroller separately.

Most parents opt for the package deal, because they don't have to worry about whether the car seat and stroller are compatible. These strollers however are more likely to have the older three-point harness system rather than the safer five-point harness system. They are also heavy and less maneuverable than other models.

TThe mix and match alternative is ideal for parents who like more selection when choosing a stroller and car seat Many strollers have the option of accepting several different kinds of infant car seats. Sometimes the mix and match alternative is much less expensive than the package deal.

Old Fashioned Buggies and Carriages

Yet another choice is the 'old fashioned' buggy or carriage. This alternative is a choice for parents looking for a stylish and trendy buggy to carry their newborn around. A carriage is a great choice for newborns, because it allows them to recline and nap during short trips around the block.

Some of these models even double as a bassinet, while others convert to a traditional stroller.

The biggest benefit of these models is their durability; they usually have large wheels, which helps promote a smooth ride. Most also have large canopies fashioned from stylish and elegant materials.

The biggest downside of these models is they are heavy and often expensive. They also typically do not fold well, thus take up a lot of space.

Key Features When Shopping For Strollers

There are certain things you should consider must haves when it comes to your stroller. Here is a short list of some things you should look for when shopping:

• Safety belts or buckles: never purchase a stroller without a safety harness or buckle. The safest system is a five-point harness, particularly if considering a jogging stroller. A five-point harness latches over your child's shoulders to keep him snug and secure.
• Reclining seats: this is a must have for any parent wanting to tote their newborn baby around.
• Brake locks: make sure the model you purchase has breaks that lock so your stroller doesn't charge down the street on its own when you pause to chat with a friend.
• Swivel wheels: these are much more convenient than locked wheels and allow greater maneuverability.
• Reasonable weight: be sure you check out a strollers weight before buying. Some models weigh in excess of 25 pounds. Add your baby's weight to that and the weight of the infant carrier if you plan on carrying a newborn around to assess the total weight you will be lifting and pushing. Make sure this weight is manageable.

Stroller Accessories

• Wide canopy: remember the canopy keeps your bundle of joy safe from the sun. Some canopies come with little windows so your baby can peak out while riding.
• Extra storage: look for strollers with large storage bins to carry around snacks, extra sunscreen or clothes, groceries and more.
• Washable material: at some point or another your baby or toddler will spill something in the stroller. Some strollers have removable fabric making cleaning safe and easy.
• Built in toys: some strollers come equipped with toys such as a wheel for your baby to steer with as he rides along.
• Removable rain or insect shield: these items are sometimes sold separately, but may also be built in.
• Side steps: some strollers come equipped with side steps so toddlers can step in themselves or even stand for a bit if they want to.
• Add on storage trays and cup holders: these are nice to have particularly as your baby gets older. You'll find you need to travel with a snack and sippy cup in tow at all times.

Safety Tips For Maximizing Stroller Safety

When it comes to safety you can't be too careful. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using a stroller:

• Always use the safety belt to secure your baby or toddler in the stroller. Most come with a three or five point safety harness. A five point is the safest particularly for newborns.
• Be sure you recline the seat if your baby is less than 6 months old.
• Remember to lock the wheels of your stroller when paused to prevent the stroller from rolling away with your baby resting in it.
• Check to see if your stroller has a locking mechanism to prevent it from folding up when your children are inside.
• If you have a jogging stroller, use the tether, which is a loose strap that prevents the stroller from getting away when you are jogging down a hill
• Remember to always supervise your children when they are in a stroller.
• Avoid hanging heavy objects on the handlebars, which might cause the stroller to tip backwards.

Last but not least, take your time and consider your lifestyle when buying a stroller. Your individual preferences and the needs of your family should dictate which stroller you choose. A stroller is a wonderful excuse to get outside and spend some quality time with your little ones. Don't forget to invest in one for your family today!