Strollers for babies: how to choose a quality and practical model?
No mom can do without a pushchair. Such a "vehicle" greatly facilitates the everyday life of the parents and gives the child maximum comfort while walking. Modern models of wheelchairs are practical and versatile.
They can be used not only as a recreational vehicle, but also as a cradle for motion sickness and even a car carrier. It is connected with the horizontal position of the body and other design features of such goods. But in order to get a really high-quality product that would suit both parents and baby, you need to approach his choice with full responsibility.
Special features
Strollers invented many decades ago. However, modern technology has made such a design as convenient and practical as possible. As a rule, any stroller consists of a cradle, which is fixed on the cross chassis. Its body is mounted on a frame made of durable metal, which ensures the stability and reliability of the stroller.
Also, the design assumes the presence of a special deep hood, which is necessary for reliable protection of the baby from wind, snow or rain. The handle usually does not flip.
It is important that the design was of high quality, created in accordance with the features of the still weak skeleton of the child. Therefore, be sure to ensure that the design was anatomically correct.
Up to 7 months, a child is carried in a large, comfortable baby carriage. When the baby is a little older, it is better for him to get a more compact, lightweight and maneuverable model. This will allow not only to move comfortably with the child, but also to show the world around him. Modern cradles have many advantages, including:
Reasonableness and manufacturability. Manufacturers made sure that the parents were most comfortable using the stroller. Designs are equipped with many additional details, such as baskets, rain cover, folding handles, etc. You can easily find a product that will meet all your requirements.
- Health safety. This is one of the most important factors that appears in the process of choosing a model. High-quality strollers, cradles have a quality certificate confirming the complete safety of the materials from which they are made.
- Practical and convenient transportation. Low weight, well thought-out device, maneuverability - all this makes the device convenient to use. Even a fragile young mother can cope with modern wheelchairs. The height of the cradle is easily adjustable, you can adjust it so that parents do not have to stoop low all the time to check the condition of the child. Also, the stroller fits easily into the car, if you pre-remove the wheels from it.
But besides all the listed advantages, such constructions have one small minus. Most often, these are large dimensions that make it difficult to easily move with a pram in an elevator, in narrow corridors and stairs.
However, this disadvantage is inherent in not all models. And if you wish, you can find a convenient small-sized stroller, which will be easy to handle.It is only important to understand that its cost will be slightly higher than that of simple classic models.
Kinds
In order not to get confused in the huge range of models presented in stores today, it is important to know the main types of wheelchairs.
Classic
This type of construction is characterized by a rigid frame and a spacious cradle with warmed rims, which rises above the high cruciform chassis with 4 large inflatable wheels. Models are equipped with a special visor to protect the newborn from wind and weather. Thus, even on a cold day, the baby will feel as comfortable as possible. The bottom of the stroller has sufficient rigidity necessary for transporting a small child.
Sometimes the bottom is equipped with additional vents for ventilation. Another feature of the stroller is excellent shock absorption, which is achieved by the dimensions of the wheels. This means that the movement of the cradle will be smooth and will not disturb the sleep of the baby.
A significant disadvantage of such wheelchairs was their short lifespan. They are suitable for children up to 6-8 months. In addition, the weight of classic structures is about 17-20 kilograms, which is quite a lot, especially if the parents live in a high-rise building without an elevator. Also, the large dimensions of the model impede movement in public transport.
Transformers
This version of the stroller is more thoughtful and practical, since it combines the characteristics of a classic and walking design. Certain parts of the basket unfasten, quickly changing the configuration of the model. Such versatility makes the purchase profitable, because you do not have to spend money on 2 different cradles. You can safely use such a product until the child is 2 years old. Also, transformers are quite comfortable and functional in use. Their structure includes folding handles and chassis, height adjustment, etc.
However, these structures break more often than others, since low-end models are made from fairly cheap materials. Another disadvantage of the transformer is the absence of a rigid frame and wind-proof walls. So, it is necessary to carefully wrap the child in the winter so that he does not get cold and does not catch a cold.
Modular
The set of such a product includes absolutely everything that a child may need from birth to the age of three. Modular strollers come in 2 types:
- 2 in 1 - walking block and removable cradle;
- 3 in 1 - removable cradle, car seat and walking unit.
The use of such a design brings one pleasure, since the manufacturers really thought out everything to the smallest detail. Also, the carriage is distinguished by a high degree of depreciation due to the presence of large wheels. But if you do not focus on the smoothness of movement, you can buy modular strollers with narrow, small and even three wheels. The cradle of this design is as tough and reliable as the classic model, which is extremely important for newborns.
This model is popular with many parents. However, it also has a large weight and size, which makes it difficult to travel with it in public transport and in the elevator. In addition, the storage of this stroller will need to allocate a lot of space in the apartment.
Pleasure
When the child has learned to sit independently, a special stroller is used for walks with him. Depending on the period of use (summer and winter), strollers are on 3 or 4 wheels, folded with a book or cane, have large or small wheels. Such carriages weigh much more easily than a transformer. They can be used for children from 6 months to 3 years.
The stroller cane takes up very little space, which means it is ideal for parents who love to travel and travel.However, this model does not have a sufficiently rigid back, and such an element is extremely important for children, because their skeleton is not yet fully formed and requires constant support. In addition, these options also do not differ in special strength and durability.
Model books are compact in folded and unfolded form. It is convenient and comfortable for children to sleep in such carriages, however, the structures are equipped with small wheels. It means that it will be difficult to use them in winter, when a large amount of precipitation falls.
Tricycles
This is an ideal option for sports parents. With the three-wheeled models is convenient to go for a short jog in the park. It will turn out to combine business with pleasure and optimize free time, which young mothers always lack. In comparison with other products, tricycles carry little weight - no more than 10 kilograms. This is due to the fact that their frame is made of hollow aluminum pipe. Also, this model is characterized by high maneuverability - the wheels rotate 360 degrees. But you can make them not turning, but fixed, if you do not need such a function. More designs are equipped with a comfortable hand brake, which allows you to adjust the movement during the descent from the hill.
At the same time, it should be understood that reducing the number of wheels, that is, points of support, reduces the stability of the structure. This may occur when driving on a rough road or a sharp jolt in public transport.
Therefore, such strollers are more suitable for walks in a well-groomed park area with asphalt paths and low curbs.
Double
For parents of twins, the choice of stroller is particularly acute. After all, you need to choose the most convenient, practical and compact model that is suitable for transporting two kids at once. It is quite difficult to do this, especially if one considers that for one child the strollers are very cumbersome. However, manufacturers tried to solve this issue as much as possible. You can choose 2 designs:
"Locomotive". Here, places for children are arranged one after another, like seats in public transport. Usually, the width of such models coincides with the size of classical constructions, and they easily fit in the elevator and door openings.
However, only one seat can be lowered into the horizontal position. In addition, this design does not allow to fully monitor two kids at the same time.
- "Side by side". The design consists of 2 combined baby single strollers. In such a cradle easier to keep track of newborns, but the size of the stroller greatly complicates movement with her.
- Also on sale are models that represent bunk walking blocks. This option is convenient for both children and mothers. There are also structures that allow children to face each other, or walking transforming models that are indispensable for the weather or children with a slight difference in age.
Before purchasing, you need to check the size of the stroller with the dimensions of the elevator and doorways in your home to avoid difficulties with further use. It is also important to make sure that the design is as reliable as possible, because not every cradle can withstand much of the load when transporting twins. And do not forget to check that the visors are separate. So you can protect each baby before walking in bad weather.
Dimensions and weight
Dimensions of wheelchairs differ depending on their type and manufacturer. The dimensions of specific models of wheelchairs for cradles for newborns will be discussed below. But first, let's talk about what to look for when choosing the optimal size:
Sleeping place. A newborn should not be cramped in the cradle for at least the next 6 months.In this case, the calculation of the optimal size for the winter period is slightly different from the summer one, since the child will be dressed in bulky clothing. Therefore, it is necessary to add to the child’s growth the approximate dimensions that will occupy a blanket, a warm jumpsuit, etc. On average, an 85-cm-long cradle is ideal for a newborn.
- Stroller size. It is equal to the width of the wheels. It is necessary to correlate it with the width of the openings and the elevator. And also correlated with the area of the hallway or room where the design will be stored. After all, it is extremely inconvenient to carry and store too large a pushchair in an unsuitable size space. Also do not forget about the car. The autolauge must fit in the cabin and, if necessary, in the trunk.
- Weight. On average, cradles weigh from 8 to 12 kg. But there are models weighing 6, 9 and even 3.5 kg. It is extremely important that low weight does not affect the reliability and durability of the structure.
Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to this parameter when choosing a stroller.
How to choose?
In order not to be mistaken with the choice of a suitable stroller for the newborn, besides dimensions, several other parameters should be considered.
- Model. The choice of a particular type of design depends on your lifestyle. So, for parents who travel often, folding models of wheelchairs are perfect. They can be with removable, ordinary or wicker cradle, which is easy to place in the car or any other transport. Also in the process of buying should be taken into account at what time of year the construction will be used, since the dimensions and features of the winter carriage differ from the summer one. If you want to save money, then you can make a choice in favor of a multifunctional universal model. But in this case, you need to carefully check its quality so that it will serve you for several years.
- Design. Regardless of the cradle or the seat, it must have a hard bottom. The baby should be comfortable and warm in the stroller, and its frame should not damage the young spine.
- Frame or chassis. The wheels are attached to them. They guarantee the stability of the design and in different positions, so the chassis must be made of durable material that does not weigh down the cradle. Most often for these purposes use aluminum or shock-resistant plastic.
- Wheels. Small wheels make the design easy and maneuverable, however, reduce its stability. This is especially pronounced during walks on an uneven surface. Large wheels are great for bad roads and the winter season, they are not afraid of even big drifts. This applies to both rubber and plastic options. But such wheels significantly increase the weight and size of the structure.
There are models with floating wheels that rotate 180 or 360 degrees. If they have a wheel locking function, then this is simply an indispensable option for any mom.
- Shock absorbers. These details ensure the smooth movement of the stroller and its stability. This means that the comfort of the child during movement also depends on them. Belt springs and hinges quickly become useless, so modern designs are often equipped with plastic parts.
- Brakes. There are 2 types of brakes that manufacturers use: a tube and a pedal. The first option is able to block 2 wheels at once and is easy to operate. The second option is used to lock each wheel separately. Also, there are sometimes cradles with an upper handbrake - this is the ideal type for mothers who lead an active lifestyle, because you can adjust the movement of the stroller while jogging or rollerblading.
- Pens. New technologies allowed to create pens that significantly reduce the load on the brush. This is an extremely important option. After all, sometimes mothers come for a very long walk with babies. Still allocate the fixed and reversible handles.The latter make it possible to change the direction of movement of the stroller, changing the position of the child in it (back or face to the mother). When choosing pens, note that they are adjustable in height. After all, the growth of family members is always different. But this should not prevent walking with the baby.
- Optional accessories. They allow you to provide maximum comfort not only to the child, but also to the parents. It can be a raincoat, hood, footrest, mom’s bag, shopping basket, game tray, warm clutch or mittens, mosquito net, reflective elements, etc. They are sold separately or come immediately with a stroller. It is important that the cradle has a lot of pockets to place bottles, napkins, toys and other necessary things.
Also make sure that the material from which the stroller is made, is resistant to the effects of the external environment (moisture, UV radiation, etc.).
How to fix?
Before you fix the cradle in the car, you need to choose the right place for this. To ensure the safety of the child is allowed to mount the chair:
- parallel to the seat;
- against / in the direction of the car;
- round trip.
The safest position is considered to be the place behind the driver's seat. A wide belt is used to fix the small passenger; it must pass through the baby’s belly. The autolauper is mounted in the car with the help of ordinary seat belts or a special platform with rigid attachments. Such a system is equipped with adapters that signal whether the seat is properly located in the car.
Most often for fixing the seat is used regular seat belts. If you don’t have them in your car, contact any salon to fix it. The belt must be three-point for fastening in the car, and five-point - for fastening the child.
Any manufacturer of children's car seats attaches to the product a detailed instruction manual. You will not have problems installing the cradle.
Manufacturers Review
We offer you a rating of several of the best models of cradles for newborns from modern manufacturers. The list is based on reviews of real buyers.
Peg-Perego "Culla-auto"
The stroller-cradle of the Italian company has become a favorite of many young parents. It has a durable shockproof frame, an adjustable headrest, a two-layer hood with a mosquito net, an ergonomic folding handle that is easy to adjust in height. The construction is made of light lacquered aluminum. The chassis can be removed to use the stroller as a cradle.
It can also be used as a car seat for a child weighing up to 10 kg. Spring strut shock absorbers, brake set on rear wheels, suspension stiffness changes. The model is equipped with a wicker shopping basket, as well as a convenient bag for mom. The diameter of the wheels is 30 cm, the weight of the structure is 7 kg, and the chassis is 10 kg. Wheels are convenient to remove and wash.
Inglesina "Sofia"
This model is ideal for sports moms. Big inflatable wheels easily cope with any road. The soft cape of the stroller can be used in the winter as a warm sleeping bag. Upholstery cradle made of hypoallergenic cotton. If necessary, it is easy to remove to wash. The same applies to the cover of the stroller. The headrest design is adjustable, the position of the back too. Special vents allow air to pass through and provide optimum ventilation. The handle is covered with a special anti-slip compound, it is easily adjustable in height. The set includes a mattress and a bag for mom.
The model is allowed to use as a car carrier, if the weight of the child is no more than 10 kg. The cradle itself has large dimensions - 78x35x24, which makes it possible to comfortably place even a large baby there. Basket weight is 5.8 kg, chassis weight - 8.8 kg. Inflatable wheels with lightweight aluminum discs. Brakes are located on the rear wheels and are activated by pressing a foot on a special crossbar.
Inglesina "Vittoria"
This is another stroller-cradle from the Italian company Inglesina, which has earned the trust of buyers. It has a stylish and neat appearance, excellent shock absorption, ergonomics and forethought. The direction of the cradle changes at the request of the mother. The frame of the basket is made of high-quality plastic, the inside upholstery is made of cotton. The headrest of the stroller is easily adjustable, the design also provides for optimal ventilation. The stroller also easily turns into a car seat group 0+. The total weight of the structure is 6 kg.
The handle is adjustable, in addition, it is covered with genuine leather. So, it will be nice to touch her parents. Also included is a bag that is attached with special hooks on the hooks of the chassis metal shopping basket.
The average price of these models is 30-40 thousand rubles.
Recommendations
Before you make a purchase, carefully review all the above information. This will help you make the right choice according to your requirements. You should not save on a cradle for a newborn, because poor-quality design with a soft bottom can damage the baby's spine. Also, be sure to ask the seller quality certificates for products. All materials from which the cradle is made must be absolutely safe for health.
At the same time pay special attention to how convenient it will be to use the stroller for you. After all, have a lot of walking with the child, which means that the stroller should be as suitable as possible for you.
How to choose a cradle for a newborn, see the following video.