Comfort
Your baby's stroller should have handlebars at your waist level or lower. This will make pushing much more comfortable for you. Take the stroller for a walk before buying it. Make sure you can push and steer it with one hand. Choose a stroller that is relatively easy to fold up and lift. You do not want to be struggling with a baby under one arm and an unruly buggy in the other.The best strollers adjust for lying down, semi-sitting, or sitting positions, and have a foot rest for when baby gets older. The lying down position is necessary for newborn infants up to four months old. A slightly padded upholstery will make your baby's ride a comfortable one, but steer clear of excess frills or padding that is too soft, as these can pose safety hazards.
Babies and toddlers alike will benefit from a canopy to keep out the sun and wind. Some stroller canopies come with a plastic window so you can view your baby even when the canopy is up. This can be a comfort to parents of very small children.
Many strollers do double duty as both buggies and car seats. If you choose this option, be certain the seat is easy to lift out and that it meets all car seat safety requirements.
Safety
Safety is critical when selecting a stroller. The stroller should be stable and have locks on the back wheels to prevent it from rolling when you are stopped. Make sure the stroller is free of pieces that may pinch or catch your baby's fingers, or dangling pieces that may pose a hazard.A good baby stroller will have a restraint belt. A 4-point restraint system or a T-shape belt that goes over the baby's shoulders and closes between his or her legs is best.
Practical Concerns
There are other things to consider before making a stroller purchase. Do you plan to have more than one child? If so, you may want to check into the many brands of double strollers.Even the most watchful parent and well-behaved baby cannot prevent spills, drips, or crumbs from occasionally falling into the stroller. Fabric that is washable and easy to remove from the unit is necessary.
If you have limited space in your home, or if you plan to take the stroller with you in the car, you will want to choose a compact model. You will want it to open easily with one hand too.
Lightweight models are easier to move around, but are usually less sturdy. If you want the best of both worlds, look into purchasing a lightweight yet durable jogger stroller. These may be somewhat more expensive than traditional models, but if convenience is your aim, this may be the right choice for you.
You and your baby will be using a stroller for a long time. Take the time to select the model that suits your needs best.