Why Double Strollers Can Be A Lot More Hazardous Than You Thought
Buying Guide For Double Strollers A double stroller is an excellent investment when you have two kids with similar age. These compact tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time taking on the grocery store, parks and anything else life throws your way. Comfort When looking for a double stroller, comfort is a key aspect to take into consideration. This can include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to examine the stroller's weight as well as folded dimensions. “They must also take into consideration the options for recline of the seat as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure it's a perfect fit.” A well-constructed double stroller will be durable enough to travel on all surfaces without difficulty, from urban sidewalks to parks trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should offer a range of seating options for children at different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies that protect children from rain or sun. For a majority of families, a double stroller will be used from birth and into childhood, so it's important to consider the seating options. “There are two main categories: in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-byside with seats that are next to each other,” Billingsley explains. “Some parents prefer an in-line stroller due to its sleek design and versatility, while others like a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for large items or groceries.” Although some models may have different recline options—with one seat nearly flat while the other remains relatively upright, this type of distinction is more common in in-line models. Billingsley recommends selecting a product with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay down comfortably. She also suggests that parents look for strollers that have storage compartments so that they can easily access snacks, personal items, and toys while moving about. She also says that it's helpful to choose a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials in their reach. Many of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents the flexibility to customize the setup based on their family's needs. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) as the child grows older. Safety Double strollers need to be able to handle the weight of both passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers must be able to move and push, especially on rough terrain or in tight spaces. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights, making it easier for parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. A harness that is not rethread, which makes adjusting seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look out for. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels which slide over any surface. Some parents choose an arrangement that is side by side to ensure that both children be together when they go on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling fights over which child gets to sit where but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are placed at different heights, one child may be able to kick or punch the other on a walk. For parents with twins or siblings close in age, a tandem stroller offers the benefit of being able see both children at the same time. However, they are wider than other double strollers, so they may not fit through all doorways in the interior. For maximum versatility, consider a single-to-double stroller which can switch from a single to a tandem in various ways, like the popular CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations, and permit you to insert infant car seats or cot attachments, according to your requirements. Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Be sure to check the maximum weight limits for each seat, as exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues. While it's easy to concentrate on the many bells and whistles of a new stroller, it's crucial to remember that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that is carried around for long periods of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also have a a familiar, intuitive design that allows the person pushing it to move it easily. Easy of Use A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on different terrains for families who are constantly on the move. Strollers with features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other factors that make them more convenient to use. For instance the stroller must be small enough to fit in the trunk of your car yet provide ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. It's also essential to add thoughtful touches, such as the cup holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as a snack tray. These can make traveling with two kids much easier. During our testing we evaluated each stroller on the basis of its ability to perform on different terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also assessed how simple it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature improved the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This can be a big selling point for parents who are constantly in motion, as it removes the need to rethread the harness. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this metric, as it came with a variety of seating configurations as well as additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon can be expanded to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is perfect for families who want to spend a lot of time in the car with a variety of children of different ages. It also glides effortlessly over cobblestones, balls and pavements. It it folds flat to make easy storage in a closet or trunk. Our test subject Kerry appreciated the straightforward, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its smart packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guide made assembling this stroller an absolute breeze. Storage Double strollers can carry twice more than one single stroller So, make sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. It is ideal to have a stroller that can accommodate the essentials for both kids—nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, along with parents' items such as wallets, phones, and keys. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags. A good double stroller must be able to adjust as your family expands. Billingsley says that some models come with an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate newborns. Others have child seats that can expand with the child until they are ready to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow older siblings to join in on the fun by riding on the rider board. There's a wide selection of double strollers in the market, from sleek, high-performance options that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more suited for daily use. When shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller that you choose. Double strollers are available in three styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most flexibility and are perfect for twins or kids close in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers come with two seats set up in tandem with the opposite direction facing. This is a great option for children who are the same age or siblings who want to interact with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are less likely to be able to fit through doors. Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. Testers loved how this affordable model comes with a variety of seating options and the option to connect two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. When it's time for folding, this model only requires just a few pulls on the straps beneath each seat (under the seat where children sit) to fold.