What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys

There are a variety of factors to take into consideration when selecting the best pushchair, buggy or pram. Consider how much you'll need to spend 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 several positions, and the option of a carrycot or bassinet to newborns. Make sure they are flat as this is important for the development of your baby's spine.

Safety

When you are out and about with your baby in a pushchair or pram it is important to follow safety guidelines to ensure your child is safe and safe. Be sure to check the stroller or pushchair's weight limits to prevent overloading, as this can damage or cause instability. Avoid putting pillows or blankets in the pram as this could be hazardous for your child, especially in the event of an accident. Similarly, don't let older children play on the stroller or pram as it could pose a risk.

It's also an excellent idea to search for a pushchair with additional padding, particularly in the area of the headrest. This will help to keep your child safe from bumping into things whilst out and about. A parent-facing mode is also an excellent option since it allows it to be quick and easy for you to monitor your baby and keep them at ease and happy.

Some prams and pushchairs have the bassinet attachment, which is ideal for newborns to lie on their backs, cocooned and comfortable. Some pushchairs and prams come with a carrycot which can be removed once your baby is able to sit. Some prams also have a seat unit that can be switched between these two modes as your child grows.

Many pushchairs and prams can be folded down to a compact size when they are not in use. This makes them much easier to put in your car boot or to transport them on public transport. Make sure they are compact when folded. This can make a big difference when you have to squeeze them into tight spaces or up and down stairs.

If you plan on taking your pushchair or pram into more difficult terrain like fields, parks, or even on beaches then it is a good idea to look for an off-road model as this will be more suitable for these kinds of environments. Make sure that the wheels are air-filled because this will enable them to move easily over rough terrain and will not puncture.

For days with sunshine, a parasol that is attached to the frame of the pushchair or a sunshade will help to keep your baby safe from overheating and provide much-needed shade. You can buy these separately or as part of an accessory set for your pushchair, with a variety of styles and colors to pick from.

Comfort

A good pram should be comfortable to push for both you and your baby. Soft padded seat liners with adjustable settings that allow your baby to lay flat on their backs or raise their legs slightly to ease reflux and large sun shades are all beneficial. Find a suspension that smooths the ride and a responsive brake system to allow you to stop quickly when needed.

Newborns require a fully lie-flat position to help with their growing spine and therefore it's essential to ensure your pushchair is able to do this for the first few months. Many frames include a newborn carrycot that converts into a reclining seat when your child is old enough. This allows you to have both a stroller and a pram in the same frame.

When you're choosing a pram, you'll need to consider your needs, such as how easy it is to maneuver and how much storage space you need. You should visit a shop where you can test-drive different cheap pushchairs and prams to see how the feel and fold. You should also check out any accessories you might need, such as a footmuff or seat liner to keep your baby cool during the summer and warm in the winter.

You'll also want to consider the overall style of your stroller - does it fit your lifestyle and personality. You'll be using your pushchair for a number of years, so pick the right color or design that you will be happy with.

A light pushchair that is puncture-proof tyres, big bouncy suspension and a hood you can pull down to shield your baby from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs, offering the perfect balance of comfort for both your child and you. With a sophisticated and stylish brushed twill fabric with faux-leather handles and leatherette trims, it has a traditional feel, but it also looks fresh and modern. It's also priced competitively and comes with a selection of useful accessories.

Practicality

The terms pram, pushchair buggy, pram and travel system are often used interchangeably but it's crucial to pick one that suits your needs and fits your lifestyle. You'll find it easier to take public transportation and in your car, or at home if you choose models that fold. If you choose a pram or travel system with a separate infant seat, be sure it can be easily connected to the chassis without waking up your baby.

A lot of prams have a huge storage basket underneath the seat to help keep your shopping, bags and nappies close to hand. The wheels are typically swivel, making it easy to maneuver and steer them in narrow aisles of shops or in areas that are crowded, like parks and beaches. If you intend to use the scooter in the countryside, you might prefer a model with big all-terrain tires which can handle rough terrain and muddy roads.

A pushchair or stroller is lighter than a pram and provides the convenience of seats that can be adjusted to a variety of positions, which is perfect for newborns or babies who can sit up. They usually have a large canopy that provides your toddler or baby protection from the sun, and certain models could be suitable to use in the rain.

Take note of how the model is and if you are able to carry it safely into your car boot or up the stairs (with or without a baby inside). - especially as they will increase in weight over time. It might be worth paying a little extra for a machine washable cover that makes cleaning up spills or leaks from nappy nappy easy. It's recommended to test any pushchair or pram you're considering buying too, to see how they feel and move and how easy they are to fold and carry. You might also want to determine if the handlebars are comfortable for you to hold.

Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your pushchair will lower the risk of mould or mildew. This includes wiping down any fabric parts immediately after they become dirty and giving them a thorough wash every couple of weeks or more often. Utilizing a deodoriser or a fabric freshener regularly can also help keep odors at bay and prevent the build-up of grime, which could lead to the development 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 clean and access those difficult to reach places like the canopy, hood or the seat supports. Make sure you choose an area with good ventilation to work in and then lay down a sheet or tarp to protect the floor and make clean-up as simple as it can be. Utilize a vacuum cleaner with an nozzle that is flexible to get rid of any food or dirt that may have been trapped in the nooks and crevices.

If your pushchair is equipped with removable fabric sections, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and wash them in accordance with the directions (either by hand or in the washing machine). If you're looking to wash most fabrics in prams then you can use an aqueous solution that is made up of warm water, gentle soap or mild detergent. It is best to test the fabric's colorfastness on a small area before using any cleaning product. Certain chemicals may harm or bleach delicate fabrics.

Stains and marks that are stubborn can often be tackled by adding a small amount bicarbonate of soda to the wash. This is a powerful stain remover which can lift many types odours including those caused by urine and milk. It can also help lift any soap residues or detergent. After you've finished, wash the fabric thoroughly to remove any soap residues and hang it to dry. Do this outside as sunlight is a natural fabric conditioner and double pram disinfectant.