What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams have a flat seat that is specifically designed to carry newborns and infants.

Prams may also come with a bassinet or carrycot for newborns. Some even have the option of changing it into an infant pushchair.

If you're planning to take public transportation or fold your pushchair often opt for a lightweight and compact buggy.

Comfort

Your pushchair is likely to be utilized more often than your bottles and nappies. It is crucial to choose one that is full of padding and a comfortable seating position that can be adjusted in the height.

It's also worth noting that many prams and buggies also come with a fitted pram blanket that helps to keep your child warm. These blankets are easy to wash and come in a variety of designs and colours.

A pram is for newborns up to six months of age, and they are still at the point where they require to lie flat. A carrycot or bassinet will be attached to the frame. The majority of prams offer the option of either 'parent facing' and 'world facing', meaning you can choose to let your baby face you for bonding or to let them explore the sights and sounds around them. Some prams are able to be converted into a pushchair, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a premium single-to-double pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).

It is vital to keep in mind that babies less than six months old should not be carried in a pushchair that doesn't recline fully flat. When they are in a crouching posture, it could affect their breathing since they breathe more than they would normally. This could lead to respiratory problems in the long term.

A pushchair is a type of seat that folds down into a compact space. It's specifically designed for older children and toddlers. They're often made from an extra durable material than a pram and you will typically find models that allow you to change the direction of the seat so that your baby can face you to provide reassurance, or away from you so they can explore the world around them.

Safety

It is important to ensure that your baby is secure in a pushchair or pram. It is best to only place your child in a pushchair or pram that is designed to fit their size and age. This will ensure that they feel secure and safe and help to prevent any accidents. If you're buying a pushchair or pram second-hand, it's important to carry out visual safety checks. This will ensure that it's in good working order and isn't damaged in any way that could pose a risk to your baby.

When choosing the right pram or pushchair, look for one with a safety harness which has easy and quick clips and connections. Make sure the buckles are not loose and that the straps fit snugly around the waist of your child. Also, look for a broad base, as this will give more stability than narrow-based models.

Avoid overloadeding your pushchair or pram with items. This can cause it to tip over and your baby may fall out. Do not put anything that can hurt your baby in the basket, including drinks, snacks, and toys.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean your pram or pushchair. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, be sure to dry it outside thoroughly. This will prevent the growth of mould or mildew.

It's a great idea clean the removable footmuff that comes with your pushchair or pram before you use it again in winter. This can be accomplished by taking the fabric off and washing it in cool water using soap and letting it air dry outside. It's also an excellent idea to scrub any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.

Experts advise that babies lie flat in a pushchair or pram as early as they can. This will help their development and reduce back pain later in life.

Retailers and manufacturers have obligations under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to provide products that are safe for the normal or reasonably anticipated use. This applies to new prams and pushchairs as well as second-hand ones.

Style

Parents may want the most efficient set-up of wheels they can get, but many parents also require a stroller that is as stylish as their child. Fortunately, there are plenty of prams and pushchairs that are high-quality available that blend high-end engineering with fetching designs that are as eye-catching as they are practical.

The first thing to think about when choosing a pushchair or pram is the seat padding and adjustable options. Babies can be messy creatures and so having a pushchair that's easy to clean is crucial. This is particularly true in the event that you plan to use your stroller for long walks on rough terrain, or on dirt and gravel. Find a pushchair that has removable recline and seat covers that can be machine washed. Be sure that the fabric is also breathable to keep your baby dry and comfortable.

You should also consider the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. Most pushchairs "from birth" allow you to switch the seat between parent facing (facing towards the parent for bonding and reassurance) or facing the world so that they can discover the world around them. Some prams have this option, but it may not be a requirement for all models.

Combination prams are referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families because they can accommodate bassinet baskets on the same frame. They are usually designed for use from birth and are suitable for newborns up to six months.

A travel system is similar to a combination stroller in that it allows you to attach a car seat to the frame, with adaptors. These are great for babies and toddlers from birth to three years old and are less expensive than purchasing separate products.

Twin prams or pushchairs are a ideal choice for twins or siblings of the same age who require transport in comfort and safety. They come in a variety of styles and are fitted with a double or single car seat.

Storage

In addition to providing security and comfort for your child, a pram or pushchair should provide ample storage for all the essentials. Find models with a spacious shopping basket that can accommodate all your baby supplies including spare clothes as well as changing gear, bottles of water and snacks. Some models come with a compartment for the child or parent that is ideal for storing your personal items. If you're looking for a pram with additional storage, opt for a convertible pushchair that offers multiple configurations. Having extra space is especially important if you're planning to take your child on long walks or excursions away from home and need a place to store everything you'll require.

Another important aspect to consider is maneuverability. Choose swivels wheels to navigate narrow passageways easily. Also look for brakes that are locked with a responsive stopping power. If you're considering a lightweight model, ensure it has the proper dimensions for suspension and folding to allow for easy storage and transport. If you're looking to buy something more robust for off-roading, choose a model that has robust all-terrain tires that are able to handle rougher surfaces.

A pram is designed to provide an easy sleeping position for infants. A pushchair is better designed for older babies and toddlers who can sit independently. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs, by removing the bassinet and replacing it with an adult seat. Other models such as the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle can transform into a carrycot or car seat.

Whatever type of pram or pushchair you decide to purchase, make sure to read reviews online and seek recommendations from friends and family. Test-drive several options before you make your decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, how they fold and how they feel. Consider a convertible car that can be used by one or two children. This will save you money since you won't need to purchase a new set of wheels every time your child grows.