What to Look for When Buying a Stroller
Written by admin on October 30, 2009 – 6:18 pm -Before you buy any stroller look for the following:
• Seatbelts: A restraint system is a must. Without it, any older baby worth his salt will do what he can to escape — and succeed. Look for three-point belt that wraps around his waist and between his legs. The buckle should be easy for you to undo, yet comfortable and secure for your child. For jogging strollers, a five-point harness is desirable since the extra shoulder straps keeps your baby more secure on bumpy turf.
• Good brakes: Test them in the store. Are they easy to operate? The wheels should lock when you engage the brake.
• Security: Make sure your stroller has an easy-to-use locking mechanism that prevents it from collapsing accidentally.
• Hidden dangers: Examine the frame for sharp edges or protrusions. Small fingers and toes can get caught between metal parts or pinched by uncovered springs. Other things to avoid are leg openings wide enough for an infant to accidentally slip through. Between 1986 and 1992, 11 children died in stroller-related accidents.
• Easy handling: Test the stroller's maneuverability. You should be able to push it in a straight line and turn it with one hand. Front and rear swivel wheels make a stroller easier to move, while wheels that move only in one position generally handle more awkwardly.
• Comfortable handle height: The ideal handle height is waist-level or slightly below. Most strollers are built for the average-sized woman. If you don't fit this description — and most dads don't — you may want a stroller with adjustable handlebars.
• An adjustable seat: Does the stroller seat recline? Is it easy to adjust? A reclining seat is a must for comfortable napping on the go.
• A canopy: An adjustable shade to protect your child from the sun, rain, and wind can make rides more comfortable.
• A storage basket: This is a huge plus on shopping trips and makes hauling baby equipment easier, too.
• Washable fabric: Wherever your baby goes, little messes are sure to follow. Removable fabric covers can make cleanups easier.
How can I tell if a used stroller is safe?
If you buy a stroller from a garage sale or get one as a hand-me-down, go through the checklist above and subject it to the same criteria, then do what you'd do with any used vehicle: Kick its tires, make sure its wheels aren't going to fall off anytime soon, look for anything loose or broken. Also, make sure that model isn't on BabyCenter's product recall database.
Tags: best strollers, Strollers
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