10 Quick Tips For Double Infant Stroller
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents of multiple kids an enjoyable way to take them around. The best models are reasonably simple to fold and transport and can easily fit inside a trunk of a car, and have a variety of seating options for children of varying ages.
If your children are close in age, you could consider a sit-and-stand or side-byside style is the best way to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to use. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seat such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your toddler and baby are comfortable in the stroller. Select a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, select one with buckles that can be easily unfastened and fastened.
You can also search for a generous UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that allow your child to stand in the back seat if they get tired. Some double strollers offer this option to both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. For example, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at the same time and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers and may be difficult to maneuver in crowded or narrow spaces.
A sit-and-stand pram allows older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best option for babies, but it is beneficial for older children who can walk longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a single or double for a number of years. Rebecca says that this type of stroller would be an ideal choice for parents who plan to buy one stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem choice, but it will last a long time, offers a high return value, and is extremely versatile," she says.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single to double buggy (My Page) or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It is not as compact as some other options, but it features an elegant design and top-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't sag and a huge storage bin.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller is a costly investment. Parents are looking for models that are simple to use. It should have a variety of features like the ability to fold the stroller compactly and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Some models have more than one storage space to allow families to split items for quick access, and organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phone, keys and other necessities easily accessible.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family throughout the years as well. For instance, a budget-friendly option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that lets you add another seat, convert it into a triple by using an incline board, or change to a single mode with an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility allows a double pram buggy stroller to last as long as you need it.
When it comes to maneuverability, some side-by-side models aren't able to turn on a dime however the majority of our Lab testers appreciated the ease-of-use and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model can be used with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and children of different ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more flexible than other double buggy for twins strollers we have tested.
On the other side the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features a streamlined design and a huge storage basket that can fit two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat plus a regular child seat. It can be used by one child as young as three years old. Its foam-filled tires are designed to last and not wear out.
Additionally it's light at just 18 pounds, and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that's easy to transport and store. It is also easy to open and close using a latch, and requires no tools to assemble. Our Lab experts chose it as the top pick for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers should be able hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets along with the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight spaces. They often need to fit into the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be simple to fold and compact when not being used.
To meet the needs of parents, small double stroller strollers can be built in a wide range of styles. They can be tandem or side-by-side, with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to accommodate a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are suited for jogging, while others can be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that have to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance, allows parents to mix and match seats units, cots and car seats to let the stroller fit the entire family from newborn to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be modified to fit one child by the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's the option of a jumping seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's great for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety of colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul utilized the double stroller with his three-year old daughter and five-month old son. Raul says it was simple to unpack and assemble because the components were neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar, and brakes that operate with your thumb. Its swiveling front wheels can help it make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers have received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of models are sleek and come with a range of customization options. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets minimum safety standards and goes through regular inspections. You should also look for an adjustable suspension system that gives smooth riding and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. And if your stroller has an armrest, make sure it's adjustable to fit the different heights.
A canopy can protect your child from the harsh sun and inclement weather. The most effective canopies come with the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows that allows you to watch your children without disturbing them. Some canopies also come with visors to block direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important aspect to take into consideration. Strollers that are compact when folded are easier to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers with only one button to fold the chassis are more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller take into consideration the age gap between your children and the type of trip you're planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem double stroller high/low stroller in order to let them interact during outings. If your children are separated by an age gap that is large you can select a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller for baby car seats, choose one with a good attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other metrics but is still important if you plan to use car seat adapters.