Comfort And Convenience – Tips for Buying a Baby Stroller

Nothing you buy for your baby will simplify life more than the baby stroller. These come in so many wonderful styles and sizes to suit a variety of needs and lifestyles that it can be hard to know where to start. There are four main types of strollers available.

Full Size Stroller

A full size stroller is the Cadillac of baby strollers and has all the bells and whistles. These are the ones that are heaviest and most substantial and have a carriage seat that folds back to a fully reclined position so that a newborn infant can lay flat to sleep. These can be used until a child is three years old, but they can be heavy and cumbersome.

Full size baby strollers include:

• Adjustable seat positions
• Shock-absorbing suspension system for a smooth ride
• Plenty of seat padding
• Sun shade
• Extra storage
• Reversible handle for front or back pushing

Mid Size Stroller

A mid size stroller has many of the advantages of a full size stroller but in a more streamlined model. They are designed to fold easily and be stowed in your car or van with minimal trouble. The aluminum frames make mid size strollers lightweight and easy to maneuver. If you look at these models, double-check to make sure that the one you want fully reclines for your newborn; most do, but a few models may not.

Mid size baby strollers include:

• Reclined and seated positions
• Lightweight frame
• Some seat padding
• Some storage
• Sun shade
• Easy-fold mechanism

Lightweight Stroller

Umbrella baby strollers fall under this category, which includes small, folding strollers designed for travel. These strollers have the basic necessities without the extras. These are great to have if you travel a lot or want a baby stroller to keep in the car all the time. They aren’t usually appropriate, however, for newborns, since they don’t recline fully. They can fold up small enough to tuck into the overhead compartment of most aircraft, so if you’re going on an airplane they’re a lifesaver.

Features include:

• Locking swivel wheels
• Semi-reclining seat
• Umbrella handles
• Easy-fold mechanism
• Super-light weight (some under six pounds)

Travel Systems

Travel Systems are new to the marketplace, and seem to be either loved or hated by parents. These baby stroller/car seat combinations provide a two-in-one system for traveling that is really innovative. Put your baby in the car seat when you drive somewhere, then snap out the carrier from the base and snap it into the stroller frame without ever disturbing your baby.

Features include:

• In-car base for car seat
• Fully reclined infant carrier
• Sun shade
• Ergonomically designed handle

There are also specialized jogging strollers for athletic parents, strollers for multiples, and baby carriages for traditionalists that you can consider. The most important thing is to do your homework and keep in mind how you and your baby will be using the stroller so that you make the right choice.

About the Author

Lori Wilkerson is a full-time freelance writer who loves her job because it gives her the opportunity to learn more about the world every day. Right now, she knows a little bit about almost everything, and a lot about babies. She has two dogs who are spoiled and one teenager who is not.