The 5 "Must Knows" to remember when buying a stroller

  1. Know your lifestyle- Some say strollers are an extension of your personality just like your car, clothing or home. You want to select a stroller that fits your lifestyle-size, price, style, quality. For instance, if you live in a small apartment you won't want a large stroller that will take up a lot of space. If you are a bargain shopper, you are probably a bargain shopper when it comes to strollers as well, so you won't need a stroller with all the extra bells and whistles. If you want to keep your stroller for several years, you want a color that isn't just this year's trend.
  2. "Matchy-Matchy" does not last- Just because your stroller matches your car seat, playard and high chair doesn't mean you have the perfect stroller. You need a stroller that fits your lifestyle, not one that matches your other baby gear. Keep in mind that you will use all of your baby gear at different stages of your baby's life. It is best to pick the right product for your lifestyle, not to match your car seat.
  3. Strollers and infant car seats don't have to be bought  from the same manufacturer- Buying an infant car seat is one of the biggest safety decisions you will make for your child. It is better to buy  an infant car seat that rates the highest rather than buying one that matches your stroller. An infant car seat may only last your child the first 6 months of their life, while a stroller will be used even when he is a toddler. Universal car seat carriers are a great lightweight alternative.
  4. Most parents end up with 2-5 strollers- There is no perfect stroller. Everyone's lifestyle is different and changes as your baby grows. If you live in a 3rd floor apartment and have to carry your stroller up flights of stairs, lightweight is the key. If you live on a road with bumpy sidewalks, large wheels may be important. Again, consider your lifestyle before you buy a stroller.
  5. Don't overlook key features- It's difficult to remember everything you need in a stroller. It is helpful to keep the following key features in mind
  • Safety restraints for your baby
  • Cup holders to hold you and your baby's drinks
  • Reversible seat to interact with your baby
  • Ease and size of folding stroller