We are aware that choosing a stroller can be a real challenge. On the market you can find different versions – 3 in 1, 2 in 1 combination strollers, buggies, classic strollers, sunshades… In addition, there are also versions with foam, rubber tires, special strollers for different terrains, strollers for the city, with suspension and without – the choice of strollers is enormous and can be a headache. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive guide that shows you exactly how to choose the right stroller. We hope that it will help you to better orient yourself in this matter and choose such a model that will serve you and your child for many years.
Regardless of whether you are buying a stroller for the first time or again – it is worth expanding his knowledge about it. The market is changing, just as the children’s industry is developing – novelties are introduced and products are optimized, so before buying a stroller, we recommend you to learn about what to look for at an appropriate early stage.
What stroller to buy – types of strollers.
Strollers can be divided into several types. Among the most popular are:
- Classic strollers
- 3 in 1 and 2 in 1 combination strollers.
- Buggies
Choosing the right stroller largely depends on how long you will be using it. If you are preparing for the birth of your baby, it is best to choose a 3 in 1 or 2 in 1 stroller – depending on whether or not you want to buy a separate infant seat. If you’re wondering which infant seat to choose, read our post Everything You Should Know About Infant Seats.
If you are considering 3 in 1 models, keep in mind that the infant seat included in the set also doubles as an infant car seat, which can be easily attached to the stroller’s frame using adapters that are also included in the set. If your baby falls asleep in the car and you need to go shopping, you do not have to wake him to put him in the baby car seat. This solution is especially convenient for parents who drive a lot and are active.
Classic strollers
Classic deep strollers are designed for parents who want to buy a stroller later that will suit your needs. Classic strollers are sold without a stroller seat, which gives parents a lot of choice when buying a seat that best suits them and their child. However, it is worth remembering that classic strollers are expensive and there is a limited selection of seats to match the frame (often they are limited to the brand, but there may also be a small selection of buggy seats). Classic deep strollers are increasingly being replaced by strollers with multifunctional solutions, which have proven to be an equally comfortable, but also ultimately cheaper option.
3 in 1 and 2 in 1 combination strollers.
If you are preparing for the birth of your child and want the stroller to serve you for more than just a few months, go for a 2 in 1 or 3 in 1 multifunctional solution. Combination strollers consist of a frame, a bassinet and a stroller. In the 3 in 1 versions, you also have an infant seat and adapters that allow you to attach the infant carrier to the frame.
Some combination strollers have modern 2 in 1 seats, so the baby tub can be quickly and easily converted into a stroller seat. It is simply enough to use special buckles and straps.
3 in 1 strollers have the already mentioned travel system. Depending on the model, adapters may be included in the set in the version without a child seat, that is, a 2 in 1 version. Such a solution allows you to quickly attach the child seat to the frame – this is especially convenient in the first months of life, when the offspring falls asleep even during a short car ride. Instead of taking the sleeping child out and putting him in the bassinet (he may wake up in the process), it is enough to take out the child seat and attach it to the frame.
WARNING! Never buy a used stroller with a child seat! You have no assurance that the child seat is accident-free – this is about the safety of your child!
Buggies
The buggy, i.e. a compact stroller, has a seat and is intended for children who can already sit independently (from about 6 months of age). Buggies are often bought by parents who have a classic stroller or when their combination stroller has broken down. Buggies are excellent for parents who need a mobile, compact and maneuverable stroller, when their child still wants to rest in the stroller, and the old stroller has turned out to be too big or impractical.
City buggies are great for quick shopping, especially in small stores, but also for longer walks in the city. If you live outside the city and like to walk in the woods, don’t worry: in stores you can also find buggies suitable for off-road use.
Buggies are characterized by their excellent maneuverability. They are very handy and usually fold with the seat, so they can be stored in the trunk of the car. Some models, have a carrying strap. Strollers generally do not have a removable seat, so it cannot be placed in or against the direction of travel.
Buggies have many advantages – they are light and maneuverable, some also have a harness for infants (but it is always recommended to use the buggy only when the child begins to sit independently or when the weight allowed for baby tubs, usually 9 kg, is exceeded), they have swiveling wheels, adjustable seat, height-adjustable handle or a special system that facilitates travel.