What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys
Whether you're looking for a
pram with car seat,
twin pushchair or buggy, there are lots of factors to consider. Consider how much money you can afford on a buggy, whether you want it to be smaller or more spacious, and how easy the buggy is to clean.
Look for models that have a reclining seat with various positions, as well as the option of a carrycot or bassinet to newborns. Check that they are completely flat as this is vital for the development of the spine of your baby.
Safety
If you're out and about with your baby in a stroller or pram, it's important that you adhere to safety guidelines so that your little one is comfortable and safe. Avoid overloading the stroller or pushchair to ensure that there is no damage or instability. Avoid placing pillows or blankets in the pram as this can be dangerous for your baby, particularly in the event of an accident. Similarly, don't allow older children to play on the stroller or pram as this is a potential hazard.
Choose a stroller with extra padding especially in the headrest area, to shield your child from bumping into objects while out and around. A parent facing mode is also an excellent option as it makes it easy and quick to monitor your child and ensure that they are content and at ease.
Some pushchairs and prams include a bassinet attachment that is perfect for babies to lay flat on the comfort of a cocoon and be comfortable. Some prams and pushchairs include a carrycot that can be removed when your baby is able to sit up. Some
prams pushchairs will also offer a seat unit that can be changed between the two types as your child grows.
Many pushchairs and prams are designed to fold down into smaller sizes when they are not in use, making them easier to store and transport in your car's boot or on public transport. Be sure to check how compact they are folded. This can be a huge difference when you have to squeeze them into tight spaces or up and down stairs.
If you are planning on taking your pram or pushchair into rougher terrain, such as fields, parks or even on beaches then it is a good idea to look for a model with off-road wheels because they are more suitable for these kinds of environments. Make sure that the wheels are air-filled since they will be able to move easily over rougher terrain and not puncture.
For sunny days the parasol that attaches to the frame of the pushchair or a sunshade will help to shield your child from overheating, and also provide shade. You can buy these separately or as part of a pushchair accessories set, with a variety of styles and colors to pick from.
Comfort
A good pram or pushchair should be comfortable for both your baby and you to push. Softly padded seat liners and adjustable settings that permit your baby to lie flat on their back or raise their legs slightly to ease reflux and an expansive sun canopy are all beneficial. Look for a suspension system that will ensure a smoother ride and a brake system that is flexible so that you can stop quickly in a situation of emergency.
Newborns require a fully lie-flat position to aid in their developing spine and therefore it's essential to ensure your pushchair can do this during the first few months. Many frames include an infant carrycot that can convert to a reclining chair once your child is old enough. This lets you have both a
stroller newborn and a
pram for newborn in the same frame.
You'll also have to consider your requirements when choosing a pushchair, for instance, whether it's easy to maneuver and what kind of storage space you'll need. It's worth visiting a shop that lets you test drive different pushchairs or prams to test how they feel and fold. It's also recommended to look over any accessories you'd like to purchase including an armband, a seat liner and fans that help your baby to stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Also, think about the overall style of your stroller - is it a good fit for your lifestyle and personality. You'll be using your pushchair for many years, so choose a colour or print that you will not regret.
A light pushchair that is puncture-proof tyres, a big bouncy suspension and a hood that you can pull down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs, offering just the right balance of comfort for your child and you. It's stylish and smart brushed twill with a faux leather handle and leatherette trimmings. It has a traditional look but also looks modern and contemporary. It's also very affordable priced and comes with a range of useful accessories.
Practicality
It's commonplace to hear terms buggy, pram travel system and pushchair tossed around, but it's crucial to pick one that suits your needs and lifestyle. Look for models that can fold down to smaller sizes because this can be helpful when transporting on public transport, in your car's boot or storage space at home. If you opt for a travel system or pram with an infant seat, make sure it can be quickly connected to the chassis without waking up your baby.
Many prams come with a large storage basket under that will keep your bags, shopping and nappies within reach. The wheels are typically rotate, making it easier to maneuver and steer in narrow aisles in shops or in areas that are crowded, like parks and beaches. If you plan to use it in the countryside then you may want to consider a model with large all-terrain tires that can handle rough terrain and muddy paths.
A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a traditional pram and the seat can be adjusted into multiple positions. This is great for babies who are able to sit up or newborns. A large canopy will protect your child from the sun. Certain models are suitable for rain.
Consider how the model weighs and then consider if you are able to comfortably move it in and out of your car's storage area or up the stairs to your home (with or without your child in it!) They'll get heavier with time. It might be worth paying more to get a washable cover that makes cleaning up spillages or nappy leaks quick and easy. It's an excellent idea to try out any prams or pushchairs you're considering buying too, so that you can see how they feel and behave and also how easy they are to fold and transport. It is also a good idea to see whether the handlebars are comfortable for you to grip too.
Cleaning
Cleaning your pushchair regularly can reduce the chance of mould or mildew. This should include cleaning any fabric components immediately after they become dirty and giving them a thorough wash every couple of weeks or as often. Utilizing a deodoriser or a fabric freshener regularly will also help to keep odors at bay and stop the accumulation of grime, which can result in the growth of mould spores as well as an unhygienic environment for your child.
It's a good idea remove any padding or covers before you begin cleaning your pushchair. This will make it easier to access and clean those difficult to reach places like the canopy, hood or seat supports. Choose a place that is well ventilated and lay down a sheet to protect your floor. This will make cleaning it simpler. Make use of a vacuum cleaner that has an nozzle that is flexible to get rid of any food or debris that may have been trapped in the crevices and nooks.
If your pushchair is equipped with removable fabric sections, check the instructions of the manufacturer for cleaning and wash them in accordance with the instructions (either by hand or in a washing machine). In general, it's safe to use warm water and gentle soap (or mild detergent) on the majority of fabrics used in
prams. However, it's advisable to spot check the fabric's the colorfastness prior to using any cleaning products as some chemicals can cause damage or bleaching to delicate fabrics.