Stroller Features A – Z: Part II

Shopping for a stroller is easy when you know what features you will use.  Here is a continuation of the common features from part one of this series, to help you decide.

O is for one-handed opening and folding

While many people will look at how a stroller handles when they are making their purchase decision, they often don’t consider how it folds up.  Picture this scenario:  you just left the shopping mall and are in a busy parking lot.  It’s raining and you want to get in the car right away, but baby is screaming.  What do you do?  With a stroller that features one-handed opening and folding you can hold baby with one arm and deal with the stroller with another.

P is for play tray

If your little one is a bit older, then a play tray is going to be a must for snacks, sippy cups, toys, and other objects.  Some strollers will even feature attached toys.  To make it easier to get baby in and safely buckled up, you may want to look for a stroller where the play tray opens up or comes off for easier access.

R is for restraints

Whenever your child is in the stroller you want them to be restrained properly.  This prevents all children from being thrown out or from sliding out while the stroller is in motion, and can help keep mobile toddlers from escaping.  A five-point harness is safest for your child.  Ideally the straps should be adjustable, and the buckles should be sturdy enough that your child cannot undo them but not so difficult that you struggle with them.

S is for storage

Getting out with baby usually means taking an assortment of gear with you.  Whether it is a diaper bag with spare diapers, clothing, and snacks, toys, shopping bags, or even just mom’s purse, it can be difficult to carry these things and push the stroller at the same time.  You will want to look for a stroller that offers storage baskets or side bags large enough for all your gear.  Hanging a purse or other bag from the handlebars is a safety bag and should be avoided.

T is for trim

Sometimes you may want to take baby out for a walk in early evening, early morning, or other time when visibility isn’t ideal.  Because of this you want to make sure that you can be seen by oncoming traffic.  A stroller that offers reflective trim helps to maximize your visibility.

U is for upholstery

While you may buy your stroller for looks, you also want something that is easy to keep clean.  Picking a stroller with the right upholstery will make this easier.  Look for strollers with a removable seat that can be laundered or fabrics that are easy to spot clean.  With children it’s not a matter of if messes will occur, but a matter of when.

W is for wheels

Wheels are what drive your stroller, and the type of wheels it has will determine its performance.  Larger, air-filled stroller wheels provide a more comfortable ride and easier maneuverability but they can make it difficult to fold and store the stroller.  Strollers with full swivel wheels work well on smooth surfaces, but you will want the option to lock those for bumpy areas.  Strollers that offer no swiveling wheels can be difficult to steer.  If you plan on using your stroller for a long time, you might check with the manufacturer about whether or not the wheels are replaceable, as these are often the first things to wear out, particularly if you walk outdoors.

Z is for zippered carry case

For travelers, a zippered carry case is a great option for carrying your stroller in the car or on a plane.  It helps to protect your stroller from getting dinged up during transport and can help protect the interior of your car from dirty wheels.

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