Baby stroller: the criteria to consider when choosing it
Before the birth of a baby, parents have to do endless shopping! Indeed, for the newborn to be welcomed in the best conditions, several effects and accessories are essential. And in the list of equipment necessary during the child's first months, you have the stroller.
Selecting a stroller can be a real challenge for future parents, given the multitude of brands and models available on the market. Should you opt for a compact, all-terrain, double, duo or trio stroller? Before making your choice, there are a number of criteria to consider, such as the type of stroller, its price, ergonomics, safety, size, practicality, comfort and much more. To guide you in your search for the perfect model for your child, explore the elements to consider below.
Safety and comfort: fundamental criteria for purchasing a baby stroller
Comfort and safety are two essential parameters when purchasing a stroller for your baby. These points are of great importance, whether it is buying a child's chair, a car seat or even a baby carrier. Your little one should enjoy maximum comfort and optimal safety at all times, especially when you place him in his stroller.
The safety of the stroller is conditioned by its design materials, its manufacturing method and the patented devices it contains. To ensure that the model you choose is as comfortable as it is secure, you should check various things, such as:
- The stroller attachment system;
- Compliance with safety standards in force in France and Europe;
- The fact that the stroller is suitable for the weight, age and size of the toddler;
- The presence of a wheel locking device…
So, regardless of the model of the stroller, make sure that it is equipped with a solid attachment harness and has an Isofix base. In addition, opt for a version that meets the i-Size standard and has the qualities required to reduce impacts and shocks. Last point, security has improved. Remember that you must favor models meeting the French standard NF S 54-001. For some time now, the European standard EN 1888 has supplemented this French standard.
The price of the stroller: a parameter not to be neglected
Whatever product you buy, whether it is a night light with remote control, a baby cradle or a bottle warmer, its price is essential. When a happy event occurs within a family, you must already think about all the things useful to the future baby and therefore all the expenses that this could generate. The list of essential things is quite long, and it can represent a fairly large budget.
So what budget do you plan to allocate to purchasing your baby's stroller? The price of a stroller varies depending on several criteria, such as the brand, model, features, options, new or used. But whether you turn to a new or used model, the main thing is that the item purchased guarantees maximum safety for your little angel. The security of the latter is indeed priceless.
Speaking of buying second-hand, avoid prices that are too attractive, as this may imply that the stroller is obsolete. Always remember to test and examine each piece of equipment. Once again, the safety of your cherub is at stake. So don’t take the choice of stroller lightly.
The maneuverability and practicality of the stroller: other criteria to consider
Practicality and maneuverability: these are two criteria that you should not neglect either. What's the point of getting a very nice product that you won't know how to use or handle? Likewise, you will not enjoy using it if you opt for a stroller that is too heavy, difficult to maneuver or impractical.
So, when you choose a stroller, make sure it is practical and easy to handle. Another essential parameter is that it is easy to fold and unfold. With the incessant pace we live in these days, having to spend several minutes trying to unfold or fold a stroller can waste a lot of time.
In short, prefer a lightweight, foldable, functional and possibly expandable stroller. If you are also planning to purchase a carrycot or car seat, you are advised to focus on products compatible with the stroller. This will be more advantageous for you, because this way you will be able to use all the equipment at the same time.
The stroller and its size: take this into account
When buying a stroller, space is one of the most important criteria to take into account, both for your comfort and that of your child. This parameter encompasses the size of the stroller when folded or unfolded, as well as the space available in your home to store it.
It's crucial to think about where you plan to store it: in a closet at home, in the garage, in the driveway, or even in the trunk of your car. When considering storage, be sure to consider the dimensions of the stroller when folded. In short, determining the storage location will make it easier for you to choose the optimal stroller size.
The different models of strollers available on the market
To date, the stroller market offers many alternatives to young parents. Since its appearance, this material has been the subject of many technical advances. Today, you will find innovative concepts: off-road, design, multifunction, luxury... In the same context, safety has also undergone certain developments. To help you find your way, we invite you to discover below the main models currently available.
The stroller pram: a rather practical 2-in-1 product
With the 2 in 1 stroller model, baby will enjoy it for a few years. In addition, the pram stroller can adapt to different needs. From birth until age 6th month, the little one will enjoy the protection of the carrycot, which at the same time will keep him warm.
After this period, you can replace the carrycot with a classic stroller unit. You will then place your little angel facing the road. This will allow him to awaken his senses and see the environment in which he operates. It should be noted that with the carrycot, you can convert the stroller into a car bed.
The 3-in-1 baby stroller: versatile equipment
The 3 in 1 stroller can be used from the moment a newborn is born until they are 3 years old. It owes its name to the multiple functions it carries. In reality, this model can serve as a stroller unit, a carrycot bed, as well as a car seat classified in category 0+. This means that baby can use it between 6 and 9 months.
On the other hand, the 3 in 1 stroller is a more than practical accessory. Well installed, your baby can adopt a sitting or lying position, it's as he wants. However, it should be noted that its price is relatively high compared to other models. But it constitutes a lasting investment. The stroller is also made up of storage compartments, where you can place your baby's belongings: their bottle, their hat, their diapers, their little cuddly night light, their bib, etc.
The cane stroller: for parents who live in the city
The cane stroller has two big advantages: it is space-saving and its weight is low. Its seat includes a fine hammock. It is therefore not recommended to use it if your infant is less than 10 months old. Very practical and easy to use, it is especially suitable for parents who live in the city.
The luxury cane baby stroller: an improved model of the cane stroller
Like the cane stroller, the luxury cane model also takes up less space. In addition, it can be folded and unfolded in no time. It's little extra is the comfort it provides. Instead of the hammock, you have a real, very cozy armchair. It goes without saying that it weighs more than the classic cane model.
The 3-wheel stroller: for increased comfort
This model is very trendy. Thanks to its superior quality and the best comfort it provides, the 3-wheel stroller guarantees optimal safety for your little one. Classified in the high-end category, its cost is higher than that of other versions.
Incorporating the “all-terrain” option, the 3-wheel stroller will allow you to take your child on the beach or in the countryside, and even why not go hiking! However, be careful when buying it. Remember to find out about its use in relation to the age of your toddler. And for good reason, some models are not suitable for children under 6 months.
The American baby stroller: another practical and versatile accessory
Based on the pram-stroller concept, the American stroller is compatible with a carrycot or baby car seat. This facilitates the transition between the two. No need to remove the carrycot to switch to the car seat.
In one simple movement, the carrycot transforms into a car seat. However, this model is not suitable for newborns. You should wait until your baby is able to sit up independently.
We have reviewed the essential criteria when choosing a stroller for your child. It's crucial to choose this equipment with care, as your baby's safety is at stake. So here are the main aspects to consider when making your purchase: price, ease of handling, comfort, quality, practicality, safety, size, and of course the model best suited to your baby.