One of the most essential pieces of equipment you’ll need to purchase in preparation for your baby’s arrival is a stroller. There are countless options to choose from, including standard, double, travel systems, and even jogging strollers. Under each type, you’ll still find a vast assortment of designs with varying features. While this guarantees every buyer of their fit, it can make the decision-making process a bit overwhelming. With so many things to worry about as a new mum, this shouldn’t be one of them.

In this text, we are going to cover some of the most essential things to consider when buying a stroller, together with a few parenting tips to help you make an informed decision. Without further ado, let’s get started:

Safety

The first and most important thing to check for is certification. This shows that a particular model is built with the current safety standards in mind and safety features like the brakes and locking mechanism were carefully tested.

Other basic safety requirements include a five-point harness to secure your baby and reliable brakes to stop the stroller when needed.

Be sure to examine the frame to ensure there are no sharp edges or protruding parts, or gaps where your baby’s toes or fingers could get stuck.

Wheels

These kids’ gear comes with different kinds of wheels that are suitable for different places. Large and air-filled wheels, for starters, are generally best for riding on bumpy grounds, stairs, and curbs. On the other hand, inflatable wheels tend to puncture much easily but generally offer a comfier ride. Swivelling front wheels offer better manoeuvrability, just ensure they can be lockable for travelling over rough terrain or at higher speeds. A suspension is a must as it helps to reduce bumps and ensure a smooth ride.

Folding mechanism

A stroller needs to be simple to fold and unfold but with mechanisms that aren’t accessible to a child, hence no self-folding as it could be a crushing hazard if the baby is still in the seat. Some strollers allow for a one-handed fold to collapse while others require users to remove the wheels for them to collapse. Look for an easy fold, especially if you’ll be using the stroller frequently. It will also be great if you can fold with one hand since you might be holding the baby with the other.

Comfort

The first thing to consider when it comes to comfort is an adjustable backrest. The stroller can be put in a reclined position for a sleeping baby or adjusted upwards to allow a viewing. A stroller with 3-positions adjustments is more versatile. Next is an adjustable footrest to help support your baby’s legs and feet, especially when they are sleeping. Additionally, consider one with a padded seat, adjustable handles to fit different height users, and a lightweight frame that’s easier to lift and transport. Baby strollers from Mountain Buggy, for instance, are designed with optimum baby comfort in mind, thus ensuring happy kids throughout the ride.

Strollers come with several other features but these are the main ones to consider. Once you have the basics, start asking yourself the following questions with regard to your lifestyle and what you really want from a baby stroller:

• How old is your baby?
• Do you have one, two, or three babies who need to use a stroller?
• How and where will you be using this piece of equipment the most?
• Do you want a stroller for a specific need like travelling or jogging?
• What kind of extras do you want?
• What is your budget?

The answers to these questions will guide you to make the right choice for you and your baby. Some strollers even include accessories that will make being out and about with your baby much easier. This includes things like cup holders, toy attachments, a rain cover, stroller boards, etc.

With that being said, there’s no one-size-fits-all, so consider one that suits all of your needs and that of your child.

About the Author

Maryn Mcdonnell is a creative content writer. She spends her days working closely with many entrepreneurs and creative thinkers from various fields. Her interests include travel, self-improvement, and technology. Find Maryn on Twitter @MarynMcdonnell.