If you’ve got a little one on the way, chances are you’re in the market for a new stroller. But with so many different options out there, it can be hard to know which one is best suited to your needs.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to choose the perfect stroller for your situation. Here are three tips that will help you make an informed decision.
Know What You Need
Before you start shopping for a stroller, take some time to think about what you need from it. Consider factors like where and when you plan on using it most (at home or outdoors?), how long you plan on using it (will it need to last a few years?), and if there’s any special features that appeal to you (do you want a reclining seat?).
Having an idea of what kind of features are important to you will help narrow down your search significantly.
Types of Strollers
The first decision you need to make is which type of stroller is best for your family's needs. Are you looking for something light and easy to maneuver, like an umbrella stroller? Or are you after something more robust that can handle rough terrain, such as a jogging stroller? If you plan on taking public transportation or flying with your baby in tow, then an ultra-lightweight travel system might be the best option for you.
Features
Once you've chosen the type of stroller that works best for your lifestyle, it's time to consider the features available. Make sure to check out important factors such as safety ratings and storage capacity before making your purchase. Some other features to consider include adjustable handles (for different heights), adjustable reclining seats (if applicable), sunshades, and adjustable footrests. Additionally, if the model includes accessories such as car seat adapters or snack trays, make sure they are compatible with your current car seat model.
Look at Your Budget
The next step is figuring out how much money you want (or can) spend on a stroller. This is always going to be an important factor in any purchase, but especially when buying something as important as a stroller.
Generally speaking, higher quality strollers will cost more than basic models, but this isn’t always true. You can often find great deals if you shop around online or wait for sales in stores.
Get Recommendations
Don’t hesitate to ask friends or family members who already have kids if they can recommend any particular brands or models they had success with—this kind of personal advice can be invaluable! Asking people that you know and trust is a quick and easy way to get honest information without spending hours on the internet.
Research Reviews
Once you’ve got a few strollers in mind, it’s time to do some research. Read reviews from other parents who have already purchased the same model. They are likely to give an honest opinion on how the product performed and any issues they encountered with it. This will help you determine if the stroller is worth investing in.
Don’t forget to check the safety ratings of any strollers you are considering. These ratings can be found on reputable websites like Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping. Safety should always be your number one priority when it comes to choosing a new stroller for your little one!
If you don't want to spend hours reading reviews on the internet then I've done all the research for you in my blog The Best Prams for Your Baby, so you can just check that out for the best models on the market.
Test it Out
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, take the time to go in-store and test out the different models that you’re interested in. Make sure to bring your little one along so they can help you make a decision by testing out how comfortable they feel in the stroller. Have them sit in it, recline the seat, and play with the features to get a good feel for how easy it is to use.
Finally, don’t forget to ask questions about warranties and return policies in case you find that the stroller isn’t right for your family.
Conclusion
Shopping for a new stroller doesn't have to be stressful! By considering these three tips—knowing what features are important, setting a budget, and researching reviews—you'll be able to determine exactly which model is right for both you and your baby's needs. With the right approach and enough time spent looking into different options, finding the perfect stroller can actually be quite fun! Good luck!