What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of pushchairs and prams can be a bit confusing. Prams have a flat seat that is designed to carry infants and babies.

Some prams include the option of a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Some can be converted to a pushchair when the baby is older.

If you plan to use public transport or fold your pushchair frequently, choose a lightweight and compact pushchair.

Comfort

Alongside bottles and nappies your pushchair is likely to be one of the most used baby products you have. It's therefore crucial to ensure your child is comfortable during every trip by choosing an option with plenty of padding as well as an ergonomic seat that can be adjusted to the height of your child.

Many buggies, prams and pushchairs have a blanket to keep your child warm. They can be popped into the wash and are available in a range of designs and colours to fit your personal preferences.

A pram is specifically designed for newborn babies up to approximately six months old when they're still at a stage that they must lie flat, typically with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. The majority of prams have the option of either 'parent' facing or 'world facing. This allows you to decide if you prefer your baby to be facing you to bond with you, or to explore the sights and sounds of their environment. Some prams convert into pushchairs, like the iCandy Peach 7 – a premium single-to-double pushchair which can be used from birth with the carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg using elevators).

The most important thing to remember is that infants and toddlers should not be in any pushchair that does not recline to a fully flat position. A crouching position could affect their breathing since they inhale more than normal. This could lead to respiratory issues in the future.

A pushchair is a seat that folds into a small space. It's designed for older babies and toddlers. They're usually made of more durable materials than a pram. You can usually find models that let you change the direction of the seat so that your baby can either face you to feel safe or away from you so that they can explore the world around them.

Safety

The safety of your child in a pram or pushchair is crucial. You should only ever put your child in a pushchair or pram specifically designed to fit their size and age. This will ensure that they feel safe and secure and help to prevent any accidents. If you are buying a secondhand pushchair or stroller it is crucial to perform visual safety checks. This will ensure it's in good condition and not damaged in a way that could cause harm to your baby.

If you're looking for a pram or pushchair, look for one with a safety harness which has quick and easy clips and connections. Make sure the buckles aren't loose and that the straps fit snugly around your baby's waist. Also, look for a wide base, which will provide greater stability than narrow-based models.

Avoid overloading your pushchair or pram with items. This can cause the pushchair to topple over, and your baby could be thrown out. Also, don't put things in the storage basket that could fall out and harm your baby - this includes toys, drinks and food items.

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

It's a great idea wash the removable footmuff on your pushchair or pram before you use it again in winter. It's as simple as taking off the fabric and washing it in cool soapy water, and then allowing it to air dry outdoors. It's also recommended to scrub any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.

Experts suggest that infants lie flat as soon as possible in a pushchair or pram. This will help them develop and reduce the risk of back problems as they grow older.

Retailers and manufacturers are required to fulfill a duty under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to provide products that are safe for the normal or reasonably anticipated use. This is applicable to both new and second-hand prams and strollers.

Style

While some parents are looking for the most efficient set of wheels that they can find, many want an infant stroller or pushchair that's just as stylish as their brand new child's toy. There are plenty of high-end prams and pushchairs available that combine high-end engineering with fetching designs that are as attractive as they are practical.

The first thing to consider when selecting a pushchair or pram is the padding and adjustable options. A pushchair that is easy to clean will be important for babies, who can be messy. This is especially true in the event that you plan to take your stroller on long walks over rough terrain, or over dirt and gravel. Choose a stroller with removable seat covers and recline mechanisms that can be washed by machine. Check that the fabric can be washed by machine to keep your baby dry and comfortable.

Another thing to consider is the direction that your baby will be facing in their pushchair. The majority of cheap pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow you to switch the seat from parent facing (facing towards the parent to provide reassurance and bonding) or world facing so they can explore the world around them. Some prams also have this option, but it's not required for all models.

Combination prams are referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families since they can accommodate bassinet baskets on the same frame. They are made to be used from birth, and are suitable for babies up to six-months old.

A best travel pram system is a similar option to a combination pram as it allows the fitting of car seats onto the frame too, usually with adaptors. These are great for babies and toddlers between birth and three years old and are less expensive than purchasing separate products.

Twin prams or pushchairs can be a ideal choice for twins or siblings of similar age who need to be transported in safety and comfort. They are available in a range of styles and can be fitted with a double or single car seat.

Stores

In addition to providing security and comfort for your child the pram or pushchair must provide ample storage space for all the necessities. Look for models that have a large shopping basket to contain all your baby's necessities, such as spare clothes, changing equipment, bottles of water, and snacks. Some models also have a child's or parent's area, which is ideal for storing all your personal things. If you're looking for a stroller that is more spacious and storage space, consider a pushchair that has multiple configurations. Having extra space is especially crucial if you plan to take your baby on long walks or excursions away from home and require a place to store everything you might require.

Maneuvrability is an additional feature to think about. Opt for swivel wheels so you can effortlessly navigate narrow spaces and be sure to look for locking brakes that are responsive enough to stop quickly. If you're looking at an ultra-lightweight model, make sure that it has the appropriate suspension system and foldable pushchair dimensions to facilitate storage and transportation. If you're looking to buy something more robust for off-road use, select a model with robust, all-terrain tires that can handle rougher surfaces.

The primary distinction between a pram and pushchair is that a pram provides a lie-flat sleeping position for infants, while a pushchair is more suitable for older infants and toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some prams can be converted into a pushchair simply by removing the bassinet and replacing it with a seat while other models such as the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one prams that can be converted into the car seat or carrycot.

Whichever type of pram or pushchair you decide to purchase, make sure to read reviews online and ask for recommendations from your family and friends. If you are able, test-drive several models before making your choice to get an idea of how they feel, how they fold, and how heavy they are. Consider a convertible car that can be used by two or more children. This will save you money since you won't need to purchase an entirely new set of wheels each time your child grows.