When faced with the need to buy a baby stroller, many have difficulty choosing the right model. The market for baby products, and strollers in particular, is developing rapidly and dynamically. Manufacturers are constantly improving and modernizing models to offer the customer an ever higher level of quality, comfort, safety and aesthetics.
Lightweight, maneuverable, compact, budget, classic - with such a variety it is difficult not to get lost. But there are characteristics of strollers for newborns that are really worth paying close attention to.
Features:
Depending on the design, baby carriages are divided into cradles, strollers, universal 2 in 1, universal 3 in 1 and transformers.
Universal strollers 2 in 1 have gained the greatest popularity among parents. They are designed for ages from 0 to 3-4 years, that is, they are suitable for newborns. The 2-in-1 stroller includes a carrycot and a stroller. The bassinet is usually used until the child reaches the age of 5-7 months, and then the stroller is installed. As a rule, manufacturers provide for the possibility of installing their brand on the same chassis and infant car seat.
How to choose?
When choosing a stroller, do not rely solely on the recommendations of friends. Each child and parent may have different characteristics and needs. When choosing a stroller, special attention should be paid to several important parameters.
Weight and compactness
The strength of the materials inevitably affects the weight of the stroller. European strollers are usually relatively heavy and bulky.
When choosing between a light and weighty stroller, you should take into account the individual characteristics of transportation and operation: the presence of a car, an elevator, as well as the type of road surface common in your area. But also do not lose sight of the fact that a large active child can overturn a light stroller.
Wheel type and maneuverability
Large rubber wheels easily overcome obstacles, if necessary, they can be pumped up. Small plastic wheels are suitable for walking on flat surfaces during the warmer months. In addition, the front wheels can be rotated 360 degrees, which makes the stroller maneuverable. Three-wheeled strollers are also distinguished by their high maneuverability. For ease of movement on snow or sand, the wheels can be fixed by pressing special pedals. In the so-called classic wheelchairs, the front wheels are devoid of the turning function.
Depreciation
The value of amortization is difficult to overestimate, since it is it that allows the child to sleep peacefully in the cradle while the stroller overcomes steps and curbs. It is better to choose a stroller with a shock absorber on each wheel.
Easy to fold
The overwhelming majority of modern models are folded like a book; it will not be difficult to cope with this task. Many modern models of strollers are folded in one movement, becoming compact and easy to transport. You should definitely make sure of the ease of folding and unfolding before purchasing a stroller.
Can be used as a car seat
Compact strollers have a lot of undeniable advantages, but the child should be comfortable and spacious in the cradle, regardless of the amount of clothes worn on him. Particular attention should also be paid to the depth of the cradle. The high side will provide a higher level of safety.
A car seat that fits under the stroller chassis is a real godsend. You don't have to disturb your baby's peace of mind by moving him from stroller to car. Simply detach the carrycot from the stroller frame and attach it to the car mount.
In fact, such a module is a carrycot and a car seat in one. But this alternative to the standard cradle is more applicable in the warm season, since a baby dressed in bulky winter clothes will be uncomfortable in a cradle for a long time.
If we talk about the rating of car seats, then there are leaders here. When assessing the quality of car seats, reliability, comfort, ease of use and environmental friendliness are taken into account. The first place in the rating is confidently held by the Kiddy Evo-Luna i-Size cradle made in Germany. The second place was taken by the Cybex Aton Q i-Size, also a German brand. And in third place is the Joie i-Gem, made in the UK.
The ranking of car seats is carried out by reputable automotive organizations from around the world. The most famous of these is ADAC, a German auto club that conducts crash tests every year to determine the most reliable car seat.
Seat belts
Most manufacturers offer five-point harnesses with additional length adjustment and soft pads. The clasp should be easy to open, but at the same time the child should not be able to open it on his own. Ideally, belt pads should be removable for easier maintenance.
Hood size and fit
The large hood protects your little one from wind and unwanted glances. It is optimal if the open hood is able to reach the bumper. In addition, the hood should unfold almost silently so as not to disturb the baby, and be equipped with a mesh window for more air flow. The outer trim of the hood can be sunscreen, which helps to protect the child from the harmful effects of sunlight.
Adjustable backrest angle
Almost all modern models allow changing the angle of the backrest to transfer the child from a sitting position to a horizontal or intermediate position. Many manufacturers have also provided headrest angle adjustment in the carrycot.
The ability to easily detach soft surfaces for washing
This will greatly facilitate the maintenance of the stroller. Particular attention should be paid to the footrest: as soon as the child learns to walk, he will inevitably stain the footrest with his shoes. Try to choose a stroller that has an easy-to-clean cover on the footrest.
Hypoallergenic materials that come into contact with the child's body
Choose natural materials and breathable surfaces. The material of the inner upholstery of the carrycot is especially important. Better if it is 100% cotton.
Removable bumper
This feature will allow you to quickly and comfortably place your child in the seat. The bumper should be easy to remove or unfasten and swivel to the side with one hand.
Height adjustment of the handle
This will help you find a comfortable handle position based on your parent's height. If the handle is uncomfortable or too high, your hands will get tired very quickly. In addition, many models are equipped with a cross-over handle, which allows you to turn the child to face forward or to the parent.
Brake pedal
The brake pedal is a must for safety. Ideally, it will be designed in such a way that it will not stain your shoes when lifted. There are also models with a hand brake, which is very convenient and practical.
Water resistance
The waterproof coating will help in light drizzle. This is an important requirement for a covering, but it does not obviate the need for a large and reliable raincoat.
A variety of accessories included
Such things as a mosquito net, a bag, a raincoat, a spacious basket have already become classics for a complete set of baby strollers. But a pump, a universal umbrella, mittens for parents, a cup holder, are not found in every set.
These items may seem insignificant, but in fact they are simply necessary, since they make life much easier for parents. The likelihood that they will have to be purchased separately is quite high.
Manufacturers overview
Top Baby
According to the rating compiled on the basis of data from the European portal Top Baby, the leading position among 2 in 1 strollers is occupied by the Cosatto Ooba stroller from the English manufacturer. A brief overview of its features:
- bright design;
- ease of folding;
- hood and outer fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection;
- lightweight aluminum body;
- hand brake;
- the ability to install the car seat on the stroller chassis.
The disadvantage is the high price.
Joolz Geo2 Studio
Next in the top is Joolz Geo2 Studio, a manufacturer from the Netherlands.
Features:
- folds in one movement;
- the high position of the stroller allows you to use the stroller as a highchair when you are out of the house;
- if necessary, you can install an additional cradle or a stroller seat for another child;
- compact when folded, easy to transport;
- huge shopping basket.
Minuses:
- the footrest is not adjustable;
- high price;
- in order to use the infant car seat, additional adapters are required on the stroller chassis.
Camarelo piro
The honorable third place is taken by the Camarelo Piro stroller, made in Poland.
Features:
- spacious cradle with an adjustable headrest, equipped with handles for easy carrying;
- lightweight aluminum frame;
- two levels of depreciation.
An additional plus: affordable price. We could not find any objective disadvantages. In general, Polish strollers are cheaper, but no less of a quality than strollers of other European brands.
But also from year to year German, Norwegian and Japanese brands are on the leading positions. Unfortunately, Russian manufacturers are practically not represented on the stroller market.
Tips & Tricks
When making a purchase of a stroller, you should not rely only on the recommendations of friends or advice on the forums. Each individual parent may have their own, individual ideas about practicality and comfort. But there are still factors that should be taken into account.
- Seasonality. Choose a summer or insulated cradle, depending on what time of year the first six months of your baby's life fall.
- The type of road surface on which the stroller will mainly move. If there is practically no snow in your area, you can opt for lightweight models with small plastic wheels. If the stroller is planned to be operated in harsh winter conditions, on rough terrain, then you cannot do without large rubber wheels.
- Dimensions of the stroller when folded and unfolded. The folded stroller should fit into the trunk of the car, and the unfolded stroller should easily enter the elevator car and doorways.
- Don't rely solely on the brand. A stroller from a popular brand with limited features can cost as much as an upgraded model from a lesser known manufacturer. Examine the stroller inside and out before making your final choice.
For information on how to choose a stroller for a newborn for summer and winter, see the next video.
