What to Look For in a Toddler Stroller
A stroller allows you to ensure that your toddler is safe along on adventures. It should come with a 5-point harness to keep the child safe, and lock swivels that won't slide off.
If you have a newborn look into an infant travel system that connects to your car seat, or a convertible model that could expand from single to double (and sometimes triple with the addition of the Vista PiggyBack ride-along board). Look for a basket that's large and easy to access.
Safety
If you want your child to be able to stroll for a long time pick a top-quality model that has safety features that meet stringent standards. These include age and size compatibility, a stable design as well as restraining belts that are secure sunshades and seat shells. Choose a five-point harness that uses straps over the shoulders, between the legs and at the crotch to prevent your child from falling out of the stroller in a crash. Many strollers come with additional hip straps to increase your child's safety.
Strollers are tested for impact to ensure they meet safety standards. The stroller is dropped from a height to measure the force of the impact. This guarantees that it will not tip over when it is in use. The top strollers have an able to lock and secure brake system that can be used as the vehicle.
Examine the brake pedals and ensure that they are easy to operate for you but difficult to loosen for children. If you can, consider a magnetic harness. It has strong magnets that hold the straps together. It is easy for parents to fasten but difficult for infants to open. Also, look for a padded bumper bar that wraps around the frame and a safety harness opening that closes when the seat is in a reclined position to keep your baby from being trapped.
Folding and unfolding a stroller must be done away from children to avoid pinching hazards. Verify that the hinges are free of sharp edges and protrusions. Store bags in the storage area or in the basket beneath the stroller to avoid the risk of entanglement and to decrease the chance of the stroller tipping over while in motion. Never hang purses or diaper bags from the handles of your stroller, which could be a risk of strangulation for your infant.
Strollers are a great way for your toddler to soak in the world and discover the natural world, so pick one with an expandable canopy or sunshade that will protect them from harsh sunlight. Keep snacks and drinks in a convenient place with a cup or bottle holder as well as a tray for snacks. Finally, a bag clip or tote bag will allow you to carry your shopping items and other things without weighing down the size of the stroller.
Comfort
As toddlers grow and become more active, they require a stroller that is more comfortable than what they had as infants. A wide seat with ample padding and reclining options will ensure that they are able to comfortably use their stroller and stay relaxed on their outings. A model that has adjustable footrests and a canopy can also accommodate their changing height. A solid frame, a five-point harness and braking system are the most important elements.
A double stroller is perfect for parents with twins or two close-gayed babies. Pick one with a reversible seating option to allow them to ride front-facing or parent-facing each other. Reversible chairs can assist your children to bond while on a stroll. You can pick a stroller that has cup holders or a clip for your bag so you can keep drinks and snacks close at hand.
The most effective strollers for toddlers is easy to fold and move. Strollers that have swivel wheels and a suspension system that works will make it easier for you to maneuver through crowded streets or uneven terrain. Other features worth looking for are an adjustable handlebar and a peek-aboo window. You might also consider a parking brake that is operated by hand to make it easier and more convenient to use when you have a lot of hands.
No matter if you're on a quick trip around town or a whirlwind vacation, the perfect stroller will keep your family members at ease while exploring. These strollers are designed with ease of use and adaptability in mind. They come with an incredibly compact design that can be folded down, as well as large storage baskets.
To narrow your choices I spoke to five experts in the field of parenting and strollers, including Lisa Trofe, executive director of the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association; Kyleyn Gosewisch, customer care specialist at Strolleria; Marielle Marquez, pediatric occupational therapist and co-founder of Thrive Little; Holly Choi co-founder and
stroller co-owner of Safe Beginnings First Aid, an organization that provides safety and baby-related resources as well as Sarah Huff, senior manager of community and customer service at BabyQuip, a baby gear rental site. Learn their top tips on choosing the best stroller for use with toddlers.
Folding
Look for a stroller with an easy-to use folding mechanism. Your child could jump into and out of it on their own. Some models fold with just one hand while others include an adjustable strap that lets you carry the stroller. You should consider a stroller that comes with a large canopy to shield your child from direct sun, or one that has various recline positions.
A few of the top strollers have a compartment that can be used to connect an infant car seat. Some include attachment points for
baby pram carriers. You can choose a light stroller weighing less than 30 pounds to make it easier to lift onto and off public transportation. If you're planning to use the stroller on uneven surfaces, select one with large sturdy wheels that can effortlessly glide over different terrains.
If you're required to, a stroller equipped with straps that are cushioned can be easily slung over your shoulder. Do not hang a diaper or purse bag from the handle of your stroller. It could cause it to tip and cause injuries or suffocation to your baby.
The
stroller you pick must have 5-point harnesses that are securely connected to your child's front and back. It should also come with a large, spacious storage basket that is easy to access as well as a tray for your child. For exhausted toddlers, a recline seat is a must.
You can find more tips and information about choosing strollers in our buying guide. Contact our customer support team for any questions.
What's the Difference Between a Stroller and a Pram?
A stroller is a hand-pushed mobile vehicle that can be used to transport infants or small children. Some strollers can accommodate an infant car seat and some have an infant bassinet that can be converted into an adult seat. While the majority of strollers are difficult to steal, some models have locks and shackles that prevent them from being taken by people passing by. Wearing your child in a top-rated baby carrier is an excellent alternative to strollers. It can improve bonding and allow you to complete other tasks like grocery shopping or running errands.
Stores
As your baby grows, stroller excursions become more involved than the simple out and back strolls of childhood. When you go on these excursions you'll need additional items, such as an adequately-stocked diaper bag snacks, drinks, snacks and even extra clothes for Baby. Storage for your stroller is essential to carrying all these items and keeping them within reach.
Look into a stroller with ample storage space. It can accommodate your diaper bag, spare clothes, and one of our top water bottles for children. These necessities will allow you to enjoy your trip without having to worry about your baby or bags.
If you're looking to store things in a place that is easy to access, consider a stroller that has a tray for parents.