Baby Strollers are one of the major purchases
you will make for your baby. There are
different types of strollers and in each
category there are a variety of models.
This may leave you with a variety of questions.
Some frequent questions along with their
respective answers are listed below. They
deal with everything from the handlebars
to the wheels and what is appropriate
for newborns to older children. Your needs,
how and where you will use the stroller
as well as your budget will determine
the strollers you will have to choose
from.
Q. What are the different types of baby
strollers available?
There are single, double, and triple
strollers. Jogging strollers also have
single and multi-seating strollers. Strollers
with multiple seats come in Tandem where
one seat is directly behind the other.
Stadium baby strollers have the rear seat
slightly higher than the front enabling
both children a view of the scenery. Some
strollers actually allow you to place
your children in different positions such
as facing one another. Another Tandem
stroller is the double-decker where the
rear seat is significantly higher than
the front seat.
Q. What is a height adjustable handle
bar?
A height adjustable handlebar on the
stroller is one that can be adjusted to
the height of the parent or caregiver.
This helps prevent bending while pushing
the stroller and as a result there are
fewer issues with your lower back.
Q. Is this stroller appropriate for a
newborn?
When choosing a stroller particularly
for newborns, you have to be certain that
it is appropriate for your baby. The seat
must recline enough to allow your baby
to lie flat. A stroller that converts
from a stroller, to an infant carrier,
to an infant car seat might be an option.
It would at least provide you with the
knowledge it is good for your newborn.
Q. Are the restraint straps and buckles
safe?
When purchasing your stroller make sure
the straps are secure. The buckles or
fasteners should be easily manipulated
but not so easy that your baby could open
them and risk injury.
Q. Is a second hand stroller acceptable
for my baby?
For the most part yes, a second-hand
stroller is acceptable for use. Before
you purchase the stroller be sure to inspect
all belts, straps, and fasteners. There
should be no fraying or tears in the belts
or straps and they should be securely
in place. All fasteners should be free
of cracks and still be easily used. Be
sure though your baby won't be able open
it. Check the seat and make sure that
the back is stable and that it won't collapse
under his weight. The reclining positions
should also hold your baby's weight. Make
sure there are no sharp edges or places
where little fingers can be pinched.
Q. Does this stroller come with a parent
organizer?
Many newer model strollers come with
a detachable tray that has a cup holder,
and spaces to hold your keys, your cell
phone, and a wallet.
Q, Is this a convertible stroller?
You may want to consider a stroller that
has a detachable seat that becomes an
infant carrier and/or a baby car seat.
This would reduce the continual removal
from the car seat to the stroller or to
a carrier. This is a travel system and
comes with a base that remains in the
car.
Q. Will this stroller maneuver on any
terrain?
Most strollers are made for the street
or for mall walking. There are some models
that have different kinds of wheels for
different terrain. If you are going to
use it hiking, you will want to look for
a specific type of wheel. For general
walking whether in the street or a mall,
a simple stroller like the inexpensive
umbrella types strollers.
Q. What kind of brakes does the stroller
have?
The preferred type of brake is the brake
that is attached to both rear wheels with
a bar. This type of brake is preferred
because it can be applied or released
with one foot reducing the chance that
one brake would not be applied and causes
the stroller to roll or tip over. Some
strollers come with a strap that is called
a wrist brake which is worn by the parent
to prevent the stroller from rolling when
you are stopped for a long period of time.
Q. Where can I find out about recalls
on my stroller?
The store where you purchased your stroller
should have recall information. You can
contact the manufacturer or search the
Internet for information. You can contact
the Consumer Protection Safety Commission
or check consumer magazines dedicated
to informing consumers on the ratings
of many products.
Q. Are replacement or extra parts available
for the model of baby stroller I have
chosen?
When you purchase your stroller you might
want to ask specifically if the stroller
you have chosen has extra parts (i.e.
wheels) or replacement parts. This could
be helpful if you need to replace the
seat liner or an extra stay in the car
base for your stroller. The best source
for this information would probably be
the manufacturer. Check the owner's manual
to see if there is information in there
on replacement parts and where you can
get them.
Q. What can I do to keep my stroller
in good condition?
Some of the things you can do to maintain
your stroller in good condition includes
not leaving it outside in bad weather.
Keep the wheels in good shape, check all
the belts and fasteners periodically to
be sure they are not worn or broken. It
is important to keep the seat cover clean.
Apply the brake and make sure it holding
when fully applied.
In Conclusion
Buying a stroller is very important and
must be appropriate for you and your baby.
Keeping your baby safe is of the utmost
importance and to that end be sure that
your baby never exceeds the maximum weight
it is meant to hold. The manufacturer
is a good source for any questions or
concerns you might have about choosing
a baby stroller.
About The Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance
writer providing advice for consumers
on purchasing a variety of Nursery Bedding
which includes Baby strollers, Baby car
seats, and more! His numerous articles
provide a wonderfully researched resource
of interesting and relevant information.
For more information vist http://www.1st-babies.com