You ll Never Guess This Double Infant Stroller s Tricks
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller provides parents with multiple children a comfortable way to get their children around. The best models are easy to fold, carry and fit into a trunk of a car. They also offer different seating arrangements for children of different ages.
If your children are close in age, you may find that a sit-and-stand or side-by-side design is the best way to avoid sibling fights over which seat to use. We also like the options that allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is essential that your toddler and baby are both comfortable in the stroller. Choose a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth road bumps. Also, select one with buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
You can also look for a generous UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and ample coverage for both children. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back seat when they get tired. Some double strollers, like the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on both children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings who are close in age. However, it's generally larger than other configurations and may be difficult to navigate in narrow spaces or crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not a good choice for babies however, it could be a good fit once your kiddos are around three years old and able to walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional option. It has multiple seating options and can be used for years as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an ideal choice for parents who intend to purchase one stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem choice however it will last many years and has an excellent resale value, she says.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single double stroller or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It's not as compact as some other options but it does have an elegant design and top-quality material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a large storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is an expensive purchase. Parents are therefore seeking models that are simple to use. This means a variety of features, ranging from the ability to fold it compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Some models have multiple storage compartments that allow families to separate belongings for easy access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags to keep keys, phones and other necessities on hand.
A stroller can be adjusted to the changing needs of your family over the years as well. For instance, a budget-friendly model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand pushchair double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a seat, transform it into a triple by using an incline board, or change to a single to double stroller mode by using the rear bench. This flexibility can make a double stroller work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of operation and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or children of various ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers that we have tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, however, has a sleek design and an ample basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat with a regular child's seat. It can also be used by a single child up to the age of three and is a smooth ride due to its tires filled with foam that are designed not to go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds in half and is easy to store and carry. It's also very light at just 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and close with an latch, and requires no tools for assembly. Our Lab experts picked it as their top choice for its value, affordability, shopability and longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to carry diaper bags and water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for children, as well as parents keys, wallets phones and other things. They should also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver through tight spots. When not in use, they often have to fit into the trunk of a car.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers are built in a wide range of styles. They can be tandem or side-by-side, and they can have seats that are removable or fixed or come with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single newborn or toddler, or twins. Some are designed to be used for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are especially helpful for families that need to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance, is designed to allow parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments and car seats, so that the stroller can be used by the family from birth until toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to a single child by using baby seats or a bassinet or for a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be configured in 30 different ways, making it ideal for twins, siblings or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers, used this double stroller during testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He says it was easy to disassemble and unpack because the components were neatly labeled boxes with instructions and a video code included.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling front wheel will allow it to make precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being cumbersome, difficult to maneuver and heavy. However, the most recent models are sleeker and offer a variety of customization options. You can find one that fits an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in a line, make sure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. Also, you should choose a suspension system that provides an easy ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for the toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The most effective canopies come with the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo that allows you to watch your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies have visors that block direct sunlight.
Another important factor to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are much easier to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Also, strollers with a single hand-release button that folds the chassis much more convenient to use.
When choosing a double pushchair stroller to buy, consider the age difference between your children and the kind of trip you intend to take the strollers on. For instance, if your kids are close in age, you may want to consider a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can be together when outings are planned. If your children are separated due to an age gap that is large you can select a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that integrates with the top-rated car seat brands and has a high attachment score. This will not have as big an impact on the overall rating as other factors however it is important if you plan to use adapters for car seats.