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Double the Pleasure, Double the Fun
Parents with more than one child should invest in a double stroller, making traveling easy and convenient, but there are many things to consider before making a purchase. How much do you want to spend? What type of stroller is right for you, front-to-back or side-by-side? Here are some helpful hints that will guide you in your decision:
1) Make sure the stroller has either a standard three point harness or a five point harness. It is advised to get a five point harness to secure your children from climbing out of the stroller.
2) Get a double stroller that has washable material. There is always a mess when it comes to children, so it’s better to be prepared and be able to give the stroller a good “scrub down.”
3) Look for double strollers with accessories you will need, such as rain/wind cover, umbrella, extra storage space, etc.
4) Purchase an easy-to-use stroller. The double stroller should be easy to load in and out of a vehicle, strolls smoothly, folds up without difficulty, and is sturdy/stable enough to carry two children. If it is not easy and convenient, it is likely that the stroller will not be used. Test drive the stroller before purchasing it.
5) Don’t be upset if you don’t find the double baby stroller right away. It can take time to find the perfect stroller for you. Do some investigating and ask some other moms about their personal experience because an unused baby stroller doesn’t do any good.
There are two types of double strollers, tandem double strollers and side-by-side double strollers. Tandem double strollers seat one child in front of the other. Many tandem double strollers have stadium seating; the child sitting in the rear of the stroller is lifted so that he/she can look around. If there is an age difference between the two children, a tandem double stroller is ideal. With the tandem double stroller seating, the smaller child can lie down in the front of the stroller and the older child can sit–up in the rear. The younger the child, the more recline. Side-by-side double strollers have the children sitting next to one another. These double strollers cater to the children because it lets your children see what is in front of them; whereas, in tandem double strollers, one child is in front of the other. Side-by-side double strollers are sometimes harder to maneuver and turn.
Graco DuoRider Side by Side Double Stroller
The Graco double stroller above is an example of side-by-side seating. It also features oversized canopy, organizer tray with cup holder, removable child’s trays, 2 extra-large storage basket, removable/washable seat pads, and front wheel locks with suspension.
Eddie Bauer All-Terrain Tandem
The Eddie Bauer double stroller above is an example of tandem seating. It also features quilted canopies, stadium seating, easy folds, removable children’s trays, and bottle bag on canopy.
Another type of stroller is the double jogging stroller. A double jogging stroller lets you take your children with you while you exercise. The jogging stroller is ideal for active parents. Jogging strollers often include features such as handle brakes, pockets for personal items, safety straps, rear wheel parking brakes, durable tires, and a sun canopy.
Think of the purpose of your baby stroller and what features your stroller must have. Next, prioritize the “must-haves” and look for a stroller that will meet both you and your child’s needs.
Written By: Dana Lehman