The choice of a stroller is a very responsible question. Modern manufacturers produce a wide range of strollers with different characteristics and functions. Therefore, it is quite difficult for parents to decide which model will be most convenient for their baby. To date, the most popular and practical are "3 in 1" strollers.
What is a universal stroller
Universal baby carriages "3 in 1" are a solid transforming structure that is easy to assemble and disassemble. That is, such a stroller initially consists of a chassis and three types of top: a car seat, which is necessary for families with their own vehicles, a walking block and a cradle for newborns. Also in the kit for a universal stroller, as a rule, a capacious bag, a protective cover and a rain cover are included. Some manufacturers make additional accessories. For example, a sun umbrella and mosquito net.
Multifunctional strollers have a sturdy construction, the latest shock absorption system and maneuverable chassis. Most manufacturers use high quality materials and hypoallergenic fabrics. Universal strollers are also mainly equipped with comfortable head restraints, which is very important for the baby.
The design features of multifunctional strollers make them convenient to operate and comfortable to use.
The main blocks of universal strollers
The main difference between universal strollers is that they consist of separate modules with which you can complete three versions of children's vehicles. Thus, parents have the opportunity at any time to assemble the necessary stroller.
Cradle for newborns
Designed for transporting babies from birth to 6 months. Some parents use the cradle longer if the child is small and still does not sit well. Modern cradles are very roomy, made of high quality materials that do not get wet or blown. Depending on the brand, the cradles are of frame type, in which the fabric is stretched over a metal frame, and plastic. The latter are very durable and have excellent performance.
Basically, a high-quality orthopedic mattress and cape are included in this kit.
Car seat
It is mainly intended for children from birth to one and a half years. At first, it can be used instead of the cradle, fixed to the chassis. This unit is very important for parents who often use the machine. The car seat has a mechanism to secure it to the base of the stroller. This is very convenient, since you do not need to remove the baby from the chair in order to rearrange it in the stroller.
Depending on the model, the baby car seat may have a carrying handle, a sun hood, an adjustable backrest and a five-point seat belt. These features greatly influence the parents' choice of 3-in-1 strollers. The rating of wheelchairs with a car seat is much higher compared to simpler models.
Walking block
Designed for babies from 6 months to 3 years. Basically, this unit is installed when the child can already sit and wants to watch the outside world while walking. The stroller with a walking module can be used in any weather, as it has a hood and a cover-cap, which protects the baby from snow and cold wind. An important feature of this unit is the ability to adjust the backrest so that the child can sleep while walking. Also, all models have an adjustable footrest and fixing seat belts. For all models, the design allows you to install the walking block face or back to mom.
Base (chassis)
A separate frame is an indispensable mechanism that all universal strollers have. The 3-in-1 modular systems are attached to the base, thus providing a stroller. The chassis can be folded “cane” or “book”. The base is tricycle or four-wheeled. Modern manufacturers produce universal strollers with a heavy-duty frame that can withstand a baby weighing up to 30 kg and even small luggage. Most models have swivel front wheels.
The advantages of universal strollers
Practicality, convenience, reliability - all 3-in-1 strollers possess these qualities. Universal carriages with a cradle have many advantages that are highly appreciated by customers. So, this type of transport can be used until the baby is 3 years old. At the same time, all universal strollers are designed for use in both hot summers and frosty winters. The design of the strollers is made in such a way that the baby will not be blown out anywhere and nothing will flow when weather is bad. Also, modern universal strollers have protective sides on all sides. They provide the child with safety and protect against falling out.
As a rule, all cradles of universal carriages have a rigid flat bottom, which meets all orthopedic requirements. In addition, such a cradle can be used instead of a crib during the first months of life.
Cost savings are another important advantage of the 3 in 1 stroller. The rating of strollers of this type has grown very recently. The fact is that many parents are looking for a model that would be as convenient as possible and cost relatively inexpensive. Many European brands produce a whole series of universal strollers of different designs and price categories every year. Therefore, multifunctional models are considered a more economical option than buying two separate strollers and a baby carrier.
The disadvantages of universal strollers
According to customers, “3 in 1” (universal kits) have more pros than cons. But there are some drawbacks that make parents think before buying this type of stroller. Firstly, some buyers pay great attention to the choice of car seats. Although manufacturers of universal models are developing high-quality car seats that meet all international standards and requirements, car seats with the best characteristics are presented on the market for children's products. Therefore, many parents opt for a less-equipped stroller and purchase a separately expensive car seat of a well-known manufacturer. Secondly, a universal carriage requires additional space in the apartment. So, if from the birth of the baby the parents use the cradle, then the walking block for some time needs to be hidden somewhere. If the living area allows you to store spare blocks, then this problem by itself disappears. But there are times when a family lives in a small apartment, in which there is no place to even turn around. In this case, it will be more convenient for parents to buy a transformer stroller. Then there will be no problems with the storage of the cradle.
How to choose a universal stroller
Modern manufacturers create a variety of 3-in-1 strollers. How to choose the best and most convenient?
All parents are looking for the most beautiful and unusual stroller. But, in addition to design and coloring, there are other equally important parameters that you must pay attention to:
- Wheel type - it is recommended to buy a stroller with large inflatable wheels. Models with large wheels are more passable and stable. Also for greater convenience, it is better to take a stroller with swivel front wheels. She is more maneuverable and easy to manage.
- The ability to change the height, tilt of the handle and throwing it from one side to the other.
- The size of the stroller - it should fit in the elevator, easily unfold on the landing and pass through the doorway of the entrance and apartment.
- Compact when folded.
- Weight - the stroller should not be too heavy. We must take into account the fact that her weight with a child will be different.
- The quality of the fabric and the ability to remove it to wash.
- The presence of pockets and bags - during a walk, diapers, bottles, toys should always be at hand. It is very convenient when there are separate pockets for all this.
- Additional accessories - not bad when the kit has a rain cover, bottle stand, mosquito net, etc.
Rating of 15 best baby strollers
Marketers conducted an analysis of sales of strollers for newborns for 2014 and 2015 and compiled a rating of the most popular:
- Noordline Edel.
- Camarelo Sevilla.
- Bebecar Grand Style.
- ZekiwaTouring.
- Cosatto Giggle.
- I'coo Peak Air.
- Lonex Speedy V Light.
- Tako Jumper.
- Bloom zen yoga.
- Geoby Joss L.
- Camarelo Carera.
- CAM Cortina Evolution X3 Tris.
- Emmanljunga Mondial Duo Combi Leatherette.
- Tutis Zippy New.
- Jetem N-Joy.
These are the most popular 3-in-1 strollers in the past two years . The rating is based on sales figures for different models of universal strollers. Also, experts took into account the price-quality ratio. This list includes both cheaper models and expensive 3-in-1 brand strollers. The rating confirms that buyers are paying more and more attention to the convenience and practicality of the product.