Standard Strollers: Your Little One’s Chariot Awaits
Choosing the right stroller for your baby is a big step, and there’s no shortage of options to choose from. The good news is there’s a perfect stroller for every preference and need. Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick rundown on what to look for when you’re buying a stroller.
Types of Standard Strollers
Aside from double strollers and jogging strollers, standard strollers typically come in two flavours: Full-size and lightweight (also known as umbrella).
Full-size strollers are the most common and most fully featured. They typically have large canopies, reversible seats, and can often accommodate a compatible infant car seat. When it comes to travelling in comfort, full-size strollers are hard to beat.
Lightweight strollers, by contrast, are all about maximizing portability. Compared to full-size models, lightweight strollers are far more compact and streamlined. This makes them ideal for quick trips and situations where you don’t need a large basket for storing things like groceries.
Things to Consider When Buying a Stroller
Strollers take up a lot of space and aren’t always the easiest things to get around with, so consider how easy the stroller is to fold up and how compact it is when folded. Will it fit in the trunk of your car? How heavy is it? Will you need to lift the stroller up and down a lot of stairs?
If you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors with the stroller, you’ll want a model that has a large canopy and rain cover. The canopy will help keep the sun out of your little one’s eyes and provide some much-needed shade on hot days, so the bigger the better. Most canopies aren’t fully weatherproof, so the rain cover is essential.
If you need to get an infant car seat as well, consider a baby travel system. These include a full-size stroller plus an infant car seat that can be attached directly to the stroller for added on-the-go ease and convenience.
Features to Look for in a Stroller
When you’re traveling from A to B with a little one, every convenience counts. These features may or may not be critical for you and your family, but they can make your time on the go just a little bit smoother.
Removable Seat Covers
Snack time can be messy at the best of times, let alone when you’re on the go. Removable seat covers you can throw in the washing machine make it easy to keep the stroller clean and looking like new.
Adjustable Handlebar
If more than one adult is going to be pushing the stroller around, you may prefer a model with an adjustable handlebar. This way you can adjust the height of the handlebar quickly and easily, often with one hand.
Adjustable Seat Positions
Many full-size strollers include the option to recline the seat in multiple positions, including all the way back so the seat is laying flat. This means your little one can sit up, recline slightly, or take a nap while you’re on the go.
Cup Holders
Built-in cup holders aren’t just a great way for your toddler to keep water, juice, or some snacks close at hand. Many strollers also include cup holders and storage compartments for mom and dad. Ideal for coffee, your keys, and your phone.