How to Buy: A Stroller

Start shopping
Once you have a better idea of what you’re looking for, head to a specialized store. You want to deal with trained professionals who can answer all your questions before you buy -- you might pay a little more for the service, but coming home with the right stroller will make it worth the extra cash. As you’re checking out the strollers, consider:

Ease of use
How easy is it to push and turn the stroller? Are you able to manage it with only one hand? Is it a manageable weight? (Remember, you’ll also have a growing baby and gear in the stroller once you’re actually pushing it.)

Comfort
We’re talking your comfort here -- are the handles adjustable or at an appropriate height for you? Do you have to change your normal gait when pushing the stroller? Make sure that everyone who plans to frequently use the stroller can use it comfortably. (If you and your partner have a vast height difference, you’ll likely need something adjustable.)

Growth factor
If you’re planning to use the stroller beyond infancy, look for features you’ll want for an older baby -- for example, does it fully recline and have an extended foot rest, so that baby can nap comfortably?

Storage space
Consider what you’ll be carrying around besides baby and the stroller, and make sure there’s room to store it.

Size
Make sure it doesn’t seem too bulky for your home or lifestyle. (This goes along with the easy-of-use factor.)

Folding
Check how easy it is to fold up the stroller -- it’s great if you can manage it with one hand -- and take note of how small it gets.

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