Double Strollers Tips That Will Change Your Life
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is an excellent investment when you have two kids of similar age. These narrow tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep an eye on both children at the same time taking on the grocery store or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.
Comfort
Comfort is an important factor to think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This could include the seating arrangement as well as 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, says parents should check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure the best fit for their family."
A reputable double stroller must be able to handle different surfaces with ease from suburban sidewalks to park paths, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also have flexible seating options for children of different age and comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.
For a lot of families, a double stroller will be used from birth and into the age of five, so it's crucial to think about the seating options. Billingsley says there are two major categories that are in-line, with one seat in-front of the other and side-byside seating with seats next to each other. "Some parents prefer an in-line option for its sleek look and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style stroller that can be used to store large items or grocery bags."
In-line models are more likely to have this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one seat being almost flat and the other being more upright. Billingsley recommends choosing a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats, so that each child can sleep comfortably.
She also suggests that parents search for strollers with storage compartments so that they can easily access personal items, snacks, and toys while moving about. She also suggests that it's helpful to choose a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep essentials close to hand.
Some of the most highly-rated double strollers can be expanded which allows parents to alter the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. For example, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth, and later converted to tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to handle the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight spaces and over challenging terrain. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights, making it easier for parents to maintain good form when pushing them. A no-rethread harness, which makes adjusting seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look for. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels that slide over any surface.
Some parents opt for a side by side design to ensure that both children see each other on family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to sit in which place, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are different heights, a child may kick or punch another during a walk if the seats are at different levels.
A tandem-style stroller is a excellent option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It lets them observe both children at the same time. Double strollers are typically larger, and might not fit through some interior doors. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be transformed from a single to a double in many ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem stroller, make sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Pay attention to the weight limit that applies to each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue or other problems.
It's easy to be swept in the sound of bells and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are in essence baby carriers that will be used for extended time. It should be comfortable for both parents and children, easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should feature an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to easily maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward or turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
Easy of Use
For families that are on the move, a double stroller must be able to navigate different terrains. Strollers that have features like peek-a-boo windows, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other factors that make them simpler to use. For instance, a 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 important to include thoughtful touches, such as a cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and an eating tray. These can help make traveling with two children significantly easier.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its performance on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller and then unfold it as well as if a particular feature made a difference to the overall performance. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This is a huge benefit for parents who are always in motion, as it removes the requirement to rethread the harness.
Push Chairs And Prams scored highly in this measure, since it offers a wide range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon expands so that it can accommodate two seats, a bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is ideal for families who plan to spend a lot of time on the road with multiple children of different ages. It easily glides over pavements, cobblestones, and ballfields. It can also be folded flat to store in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry appreciated the straightforward, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The sleek packaging with clearly marked sections as well as a user's manual made it easy to put together this stroller.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice more than one stroller so be sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to accommodate the essentials of both children and parents, such as bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller should have the ability to adapt as your family expands. For instance certain models have a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others come with child seats that can expand with your kids until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers permit older siblings to join in the fun with riding boards.
There are many different double strollers available. You can pick from models with high-performance features that are ideal for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that you can use every day. When shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families like yours to get a better idea of what to expect from the double stroller that you pick.
Double strollers come in three different design formats such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins or children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers have two seats arranged in a tandem configuration, facing opposite directions. This is a great option for children of the same age or siblings who like to interact with each other. Tandem strollers can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. This affordable model was highly praised by our testers for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the comfortable memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that never get flat. And when it's time for you to fold, this model needs only a few tugs on straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold it in half.