A stroller is certainly a must have piece of baby gear. Buying one is just like investing in a car due to how overwhelming it can be. This is because just like cars, strollers are available in different sizes, materials, and features.
To select the right stroller, you should spend some time researching different options and factors that affect your selection. This brief stroller-buying guide will just help you with that so that your little one can remain safe and comfortable.
Factors to Consider for Buying a Stroller
Before you go ahead to check the buying factors, you need to be ready with the answers to a few logical questions. These are: what kind of road you will be using the stroller on, what will be the weather, where you will be using the stroller, how much weight can you handle, where is the storage space, and what is your budget.
You may even look for some extra bells and whistles such as a peekaboo window in canopy, a drink holder, a storage basket, and an adjustable handlebar if they are deemed as necessities. Once the answers are in your hand, consider the following factors:
- Type: There are mainly six types of strollers to choose from, each having its pros and cons:
- Standard: Are full-sized strollers that are bigger and more durable. On the flip side, maneuvering them is a bit challenging. They come with a padded reclining seat, sunshade, and storage space beneath. These models allow toddlers to face forward, toward the stroller pusher, or both. Most big models have all the required good features.
- Lightweight: Are umbrella strollers that are designed for portability while traveling. They are easy to move, fold, and push. Most of them are for toddlers above six months and older. However, they do not come with all the bells and whistles including ample padding.
- Jogging: Are for active parents or those who intend to lose weight. Double jogging strollers are made using strong tires and a lightweight frame, come with reclining seats, and have good storage. Most models are compatible with car seats. However, they are bulky and not the most compact ones after being folded.
- Car Seat Frame: Are for parents on a stringent budget or wish to have a standard stroller for initial few months. They feature a basic frame to hold the seat of your choice (mostly only infant car seats). They are convenient and easy to use.
- Double: Are for parents with twins or kids with similar age who can fit inside a single stroller. The options here are a side-by-side model or a tandem one with one seat in front of another. The latter one can have less leg room for the second baby, while the former one is tougher to push through the doors and crowds.
- Travel Systems: Are for parents who often travel and want a model with infant car seat but without any seat adapter. You can easily get a standard or jogging stroller as a travel system. You either find a car seat and stroller combo or a model with an adapter. These systems are bigger and heavier although a few lighter ones are also available. Money is saved if you invest in the combo of a stroller and a car seat.
- Convertible: Are for parents who want an all-in-one model for one or more children.
- Safety: Your stroller should meet the basic safety needs, such as five-point harness strap, reliable brakes, and a frame without sharp spots.
- Storage: This is for carrying some things along with the baby. A large basket is ideal for a diaper bag and purse, cup holders for drinks, and small pockets for keys.
Conclusion
With these factors, you can easily find a perfect baby stroller.