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Filling out your registry can be overwhelming. Who knew babies needed so many things? Additionally, you could spend hours upon hours researching each product and pouring over its reviews. One of the most important items on your registry is your stroller. Picking the right stroller can be the difference between an effortless breeze through the mall and a workout wrangling it back into your car. There is no shortage of types of strollers and when you start adding on bells and whistles – how can you ever choose?!
As usual, we have broken down the basics of stroller shopping. Using our guide, you will be able to navigate the stroller market and select an option that fits your family and lifestyle. Before you start shopping, answer each of these questions to gain a clearer understanding of what you may actually need versus accessories you want.
Questions to ask:
1. What is my budget?
Stroller prices can range from $30 for a basic model to a few thousand dollars for the Cadillac of strollers. Your future self will be thanking you for investing in a quality stroller, but you do not have to break the bank to get one you will be happy with. Establish your budget for a stroller and focus your research on models within that range.
2. What are the 'Safety Features' in my stroller?
We highly recommend exploring a stroller’s safety features before purchase. Consider options with five-point harnesses, hand brakes, no sharp edges or hinges your baby can reach.
3. What activities am I going to be doing with the stroller?
If you are going to be using public transportation or traveling often with your stroller, a narrower, lightweight option may be best. If you are an avid runner or hiker, a sturdy model built for off-roading may be a better pick. Understanding how you will be using the stroller can help you narrow down options in terms of size, wheels, and features.
4. How does the stroller break down?
Some strollers fold flat with the push of a button while others require more manpower. Consider ease-of-use when purchasing a stroller. If you are juggling multiple children or are going to be breaking down and setting up the stroller by yourself, a quick breakdown may slide to the top of your priority list. Technology has been improving the stroller experience. More and more options are available with one-handed fold capability. While it may not seem like too much of a hassle now, when you are wrangling multiple children, diaper bags, car seats, and now a stroller, having a no-brainer collapse will save you valuable time and energy.
5. What kind of storage do I want?
Many strollers come with compartments that are perfect for storing extra wipes, bottles, or even your diaper bag. While lightening your load is a major perk, strollers with lots of storage tend to be bulkier than their counterparts so consider this trade-off before you purchase.
6. How long and for how many children will I need this stroller?
Are you going to be using this stroller for years to come? Are multiple children going to need to simultaneously use this stroller? This question is important because it will make you consider looking for strollers that can adapt. Maybe you want to select an option that can accommodate different size car seats as your child grows into them. If you are having twins or will have two children using it at once, a double stroller may be the best choice for you.
7. How tall are you and your partner?
Now, this question may seem like a curveball, but it is on this list for good reason! If there is a major difference in your and your partner’s height, you should look into a stroller that has telescoping handlebars. This way, you can adjust the height of the handlebars depending on who is using the stroller. Therefore, both of you can use it with comfort instead of reaching or slumping over to push.
8. Is my stroller made with easy-to-clean material?
While some strollers may be more “aesthetic”, consider trading style for sturdiness. Simply put, babies are messy. Your stroller is going to see spills, splashes, and soiled diapers. After investing in a stroller, you will be thankful you purchased one that wipes clean.
9. Does my stroller have any extra features?
Like a sun canopies-These are the collapsible “hoods” you see on strollers. These can be pulled forward to help shield your baby from the sun/ rain. Some options even have built-in SPF for extra protection.
Like cup holders: Whether it is a water bottle or baby bottle or the much needed morning macchiato, cup holders according to us are a must have feature!
Any of these extra items can be purchased on Amazon, however if your stroller has them then nothing like it.
Now that you have decided on a type of stroller, you can start adding on your accessories that you would like to have from our list of 'STROLLER ACCESSORIES'. Also don't forget to check out our post on TYPES OF STROLLERS and the BEST STROLLERS IN 2021 to gain some insight about stroller shopping!
References Earley, B. (2020, December 2). How to buy a baby stroller. What to Expect. https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/strollers/. How to find a stroller you'll fall in love with. Babylist. (n.d.). https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/how-to-choose-a-stroller.
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