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With countless stroller options available, figuring out where to start can be overwhelming. The most effective way to ensure you’re choosing the right one is to test different strollers in person before making a purchase. If you’re curious about where you can try out strollers, I’ve compiled a list of the best places, ranging from large department stores to smaller specialty baby shops.
One of the great benefits of testing strollers in physical stores is that you can take your time exploring different models and then go home and find the best price online. Since you’ve already had the chance to try out the stroller, you can make a confident purchase online, knowing exactly what you’re getting.
Before you head out to browse, consider the pros and cons of various strollers and think about which type would best fit your lifestyle. Whether you choose to visit a large department store or a smaller shop, I hope you find the perfect stroller for your family.
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Where You Can Try Out Strollers In Person
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect stroller and want to test it out in person, there are several places you can check out:
- Department Stores: These retail giants usually stock a range of stroller options, giving you plenty to choose from.
- Local Shops: Smaller, independent stores often carry different models and may provide more personalized service.
- Baby Boutiques: These specialty stores typically offer high-end strollers and expert advice.
- Second-Hand Stores: Great for those on a budget, these shops can have pre-loved strollers worth trying.
Another great way to get a feel for different strollers is by talking to friends and other caregivers who already own them. Their insights can be invaluable.
Alternative Options
If visiting these stores isn’t an option, or if the local stores don’t have strollers on display for you to try, don’t worry! You can also:
- Rent a Stroller: This lets you take a specific model for a test spin over a short period.
- Purchase with a Good Return Policy: Buy a stroller that allows returns so you can test it at home and ensure it fits your needs.
Don’t stop here—keep reading to discover which stores are best for trying out strollers!
By exploring these avenues, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect stroller for your needs.
Visit a Large Department Store to Test Strollers
One of the best places to try out various stroller models is at a large department store near you. These stores usually provide a wide range of stroller types, allowing you to examine different specifications and features in one place.
Why Choose a Department Store?
- Variety: You can compare multiple models side-by-side.
- Space: Large aisles give you the freedom to push the stroller around, helping you evaluate its manoeuvrability, weight, and overall quality.
Points to Consider:
- Security Measures: Sometimes, strollers may be chained or locked to prevent theft. If this happens, you’ll need to find an employee to help you unlock and test the stroller.
- Limited Availability of Staff: If no employees are available to assist, you may at least be able to touch and examine the stroller’s features in person. This is still better than purchasing a stroller online without any hands-on experience.
Recommended Department Stores for Testing Strollers
Here are some large department stores you can visit to try out strollers:
- Toys “R” Us / Babies “R” Us
- Walmart
- Target (US)
- Sears (US)
- Nordstrom (US)
- Macy’s (US)
- The Bay (Canada)
- Canadian Tire (Canada)
Exploring these stores will give you a better sense of what each stroller has to offer, helping you make a more informed decision.
Test Strollers at Smaller Baby Shops with Floor Models
Exploring stroller options at smaller baby shops or boutiques can be a rewarding experience. These stores often have floor models available, allowing you to see and test different strollers up close.
Why Choose Smaller Baby Shops?
- Knowledgeable Staff: The employees typically have extensive knowledge about the various strollers and are eager to help.
- Personalized Attention: You can ask detailed questions and receive tailored advice.
Points to Consider:
- Limited Space: Although there might not be ample space to walk the stroller around, taking a few steps should give you a good sense of its manoeuvrability.
- Hands-On Assistance: Staff can demonstrate how to collapse and use specific features of the stroller, making your decision easier.
Popular Smaller Baby Shops
Here are several well-known shops where you can buy and test strollers in person:
- Buybuy BABY
- Bed Bath & Beyond
- Pottery Barn Kids (US)
- West Coast Kids (Canada)
- Snuggle Bugz (Canada)
- Indigo (Canada)
Finding Local Options
If the shops listed above aren’t available in your area, look for local stores that specialize in baby products. These shops often provide a more personalized shopping experience, helping you find the perfect stroller for your needs.
By visiting smaller baby shops, you can benefit from expert guidance and a hands-on approach to choosing the right stroller.
Choosing a Stroller From a Store With a Good Return Policy
If you have a specific stroller in mind but are unsure if it’s the right fit, purchasing it from a store with a good return policy can be a smart move. This allows you to test it out at home, ensuring it meets your needs.
Benefits:
- Home Testing: You can try the stroller in the comfort of your home. Testing indoors is best to keep the wheels clean.
- Peace of Mind: A good return policy means you can return the stroller within a specified timeframe if you’re not satisfied.
Examples of Return Policies:
- Target: Full refund for items returned within 90 days.
- Buybuy BABY: It also offers a 90-day return policy.
- Pottery Barn Kids: Allows returns within 30 days.
Note: Sale or clearance items might not be eligible for these return policies. Always check before making a purchase.
Trying Stroller Styles at Second-Hand Baby Stores
Second-hand stores, especially kids’ consignment shops, are another place where you can explore stroller options.
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Second-hand strollers are usually more affordable.
- Diverse Options: You might find a variety of models to test.
Considerations:
- Availability: Stock depends on donations, so specific brands or models cannot be guaranteed.
- Variety of Features: Testing second-hand strollers can help you identify which features you like or dislike.
Exploring these options will help you make a more informed decision on the best stroller for your needs, whether through a return-policy-friendly store or a second-hand shop.
Request to try out your Friends’ strollers
If your friends or family members have babies, asking to try out their strollers can be a great option. It saves you a trip to the store and provides you with direct feedback from people you trust.
Benefits:
- Convenience: No need to go shopping.
- Personal Reviews: Friends can share their favorite features and how they use the stroller.
Limitations:
- Limited Variety: You won’t see as many models as in a store.
- Honest Feedback: Friends can give you honest insights based on their experiences.
Talk to Other Caregivers About Their Strollers
If you don’t know anyone with babies, you can still gather useful information by talking to other parents at local parks or recreation centers. While it may feel a bit awkward, firsthand feedback can be very helpful.
Benefits:
- First-Hand Opinions: Get direct feedback from real users.
- Real-World Observation: See how the stroller performs in everyday situations.
Tips:
- Start a Conversation: Approach other parents and ask about their strollers.
- Look for Similar Styles: Pay attention to models you are interested in.
By asking friends or other caregivers about their strollers, you can gain valuable insights that might not be available from a store visit alone. These personal experiences can help you make a well-informed decision.
Check out an online baby gear rental service to Test a Specific Stroller
If visiting stores or borrowing from friends isn’t feasible, consider trying an online baby gear rental site. This makes it especially easy for those who prefer to stay home or cannot visit stores in person.
Benefits:
- Home Convenience: You can try the stroller from the comfort of your own home.
- Variety: These sites often offer a range of models to choose from.
How It Works:
- Rental Purpose: Originally designed for travelers needing baby gear when visiting different cities, these sites can also be used to test out strollers.
- Cost-Effective: Rental prices for strollers typically range from $8-$20 per day.
Steps to Use:
- Select a Rental Site: Choose a reputable baby gear rental site.
- Browse Options: Look for the specific stroller model you want to test.
- Place an Order: Rent the stroller for a few days to see how it fits your needs.
By using an online baby gear rental site, you can conveniently test out a specific stroller without leaving your home. This method offers a cost-effective way to evaluate different models and ensure you choose the best one for your needs.
Conclusion: Where You Can Test Strollers
Before heading to the shops, it’s important to consider the features you’re looking for in a stroller so you can narrow down your choices. Going in with a clear idea will give you confidence while testing different styles and functions. Whether you’re seeking an umbrella stroller, a full travel system, or a particular jogging model, it’s beneficial to see them in person whenever possible. If you’re unsure whether a nearby store has strollers available for testing, give them a call to check their options.
The availability of places to test out strollers may vary by location, but many stores are willing to help you find the right one if you ask. Additionally, you can:
- Ask Friends or Family: Test their strollers to get a feel for different types.
- Talk to Other Parents: Engage with other parents at parks or recreation centers for firsthand opinions.
- Use Online Baby Gear Rental Sites: Services like BabyQuip or WeeTravel (Canada) offer the convenience of trying out specific strollers from the comfort of your own home.
By exploring these avenues, you’re more likely to find a stroller that suits your needs and lifestyle perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, according to numerous online reviews from seasoned parents, buybuy BABY is highly recommended for testing strollers. They are praised for their extensive selection and helpful staff. The stores offer various stroller styles to try, and their website even promotes this:
“Interested in a test drive? Visit the store to experience what works best for your family before adding it to your registry or cart.”
Yes, you can test out strollers at many Target locations, though the selection and accessibility of strollers on display can vary by store. While many parents have successfully tested strollers at Target, others have noted that the in-store selection at their local Target did not meet their expectations. Some online comments mention that the stroller displays in certain Target locations were positioned too high to be easily reached or tested.
According to online parent communities, buybuy BABY and Babies R Us are among the top stores for testing strollers. They offer a wide selection and have knowledgeable staff available to assist with questions.
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