What kind of baby stroller is right for your family? A traditional model? A three-wheel, all-terrain stroller? A travel system that combines the stroller with a car seat? Don't have the foggiest idea? Then read on.
By Times Staff Writer
Published June 15, 2003
1. The decision should be yours. If you think someone may want to buy you a baby stroller as a gift, register for the exact stroller you want. It's important that you choose one that best meets your family's needs.
2. Take it for a spin. As you shop around, push numerous strollers through the store, and be sure to open, fold and carry each model with one hand. Such maneuvers should be relatively easy to do, because you'll often be using your other arm to carry the baby. Also, make sure the stroller will fit in your trunk.
3. Going anywhere right after your baby is born? A newborn will need a stroller that lets him or her lie down or that works in concert with a car seat. Once your baby is about 6 months old and can sit up, you could consider a traditional, lightweight, umbrella-style stroller that doesn't recline.
4. Consider a stroller/car seat combo. Such travel systems can be ideal for parents who do a lot of driving. The detachable infant car seat fits in the stroller, making it easy to move a sleeping baby in and out of the car. The stroller can continue to be used after the child reaches about 22 pounds and outgrows the car seat.
5. Jog with your baby. A jogger or all-terrain stroller has three heavy-duty suspension or air-filled tires and is good for off-road use. Be aware that these strollers are not appropriate for babies under 6 months, and they can become unstable when you lift the rear wheels over a curb.
6. Make it a double. If you have more than one child, consider a heavier double stroller that seats children side-by-side, one behind the other or face-to-face.
7. Check out seat-carrier frames. One low-cost option is a lightweight, empty frame that rolls an infant car seat around. A drawback is that both the car seat and the frame must be replaced when the child gets too big for the seat.
8. Do you need more than one? If you're athletic and frequently on the go, you might decide that you want both a traditional, umbrella-style stroller and an all-terrain stroller.
9. Look for these features. No matter what kind of stroller you choose, these features can make your life a lot easier: an adjustable-height handle; a five-point harness to secure the baby; a cup holder; a canopy to shield your baby from sun or rain, and a big shopping basket.
10. Put safety first. Never leave your baby unattended in a stroller, especially when he or she is sleeping. The baby could strangle by sliding down into a leg opening. Also, be sure to use the safety belt or harness, avoid overloading the stroller and return the stroller warranty card so you can be contacted about a recall.
