Six key considerations when choosing a baby stroller or car seat
Experts advise parents to research, test, and always prioritise safety over aesthetics. With the right choice, a stroller or car seat becomes more than a convenience; it becomes a trusted companion for navigating Kenya’s urban parenting challenges.
For many new parents, buying a stroller or car seat is more than just a shopping trip; it often sparks debates and disagreements between couples.
This decision directly affects a child’s safety and a parent’s daily routine, making it difficult to decide which item to prioritise first.
With busy streets, crowded matatus, and the occasional pothole, choosing the right gear requires careful thought. Experts and local parenting communities highlight six key factors to consider before investing in baby transport equipment.
1. Safety is non-negotiable
Kenya’s roads and public transport are notoriously unpredictable.
“A good car seat is not just a luxury; it’s a lifesaver for your child,” says Jane Mwangi, a Nairobi-based child safety advocate and owner of ToTo’s Corner Ruiru.
Parents should look for car seats with a 5-point harness, which secures the child at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs.
Unlike 3-point or lap-only belts, the 5-point system distributes crash forces across the strongest parts of the body, namely, the shoulders and hips, reducing strain on the neck and spine.
This feature is especially critical for infants and toddlers whose bones and muscles are still developing.
Strollers should also have a reliable braking system and secure harness straps to prevent slips or falls. An ideal stroller is lightweight, foldable, easy to manoeuvre with rotatable wheels, and equipped with an adjustable canopy for sun protection.
2. Age and size matter
Children grow quickly, and their safety needs change almost monthly.
- Infants require reclining seats or carrycots for proper neck and spine support.
- Toddlers need seats that can accommodate weights of 25kg or more.
Local shops stock adjustable car seats and strollers designed to grow with your child, helping parents avoid frequent replacements.
3. Stroller or travel system?
Your lifestyle should guide your choice.
- If you walk often through markets, malls, or estates, a lightweight stroller is essential.
- If you drive regularly, a travel system, where a car seat clicks into a stroller, offers convenience.
“It saves you the hassle of transferring a sleepy baby from car to stroller,” Mwangi notes.
4. Ease of use and portability
Parents in Nairobi often juggle babies while boarding cabs, climbing apartment staircases, or walking long distances.
A stroller that folds easily with one hand, or a car seat that installs quickly in a vehicle, can make daily life much easier.
Compact strollers are especially useful in apartments around Westlands or Parklands, where space is limited.
5. Durability and maintenance
Kenya’s unpredictable weather and rough urban terrain demand gear built to last.
- Look for aluminium frames, washable fabrics, and wheels that can handle uneven pavements.
- Check for local availability of spare parts, because a stroller with a broken wheel is useless if repairs are hard to find.
6. Budget vs. value
High-end strollers and car seats in Nairobi can cost upwards of Sh30,000, but local brands like offer affordable options with comparable safety features.
Experts caution against compromising safety for style or price. While second-hand strollers may be acceptable, used car seats are risky; previous accidents can weaken their structure even if they appear intact.
Beyond cost, the real value lies in peace of mind: knowing your child is secure whether travelling by matatu, private car, or strolling to the market.
Experts advise parents to research, test, and always prioritise safety over aesthetics. With the right choice, a stroller or car seat becomes more than a convenience; it becomes a trusted companion for navigating Kenya’s urban parenting challenges.
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