What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of pushchairs and prams can be confusing. Prams come with a flat seat that is designed to carry babies and newborns.

Prams may also come with a carrycot or bassinet for babies. Some can be converted into an infant pushchair once the baby is older.

If you are planning to use public transportation or have to fold your pushchair frequently choose a light and compact stroller newborn.

Comfort

Your pushchair will probably be more frequently used than your nappies and bottles. It is essential to select one that is full of padding and a comfortable seating position that can be adjusted to height.

It's important to note that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a pram blanket, which can help to keep your child warm. They can be easily put in the wash and are available in a range of designs and colours to suit your preference.

A pram is suitable for babies up to six months of age, when they are still at the point where they require to lie flat. Most often, a carrycot or bassinet is attached to the frame. The majority of prams offer the option of either facing your child's parents or the world facing', which means you can choose whether to have your baby's face facing you to bond or allow them to explore the sights and sounds around them. Some prams can be converted to pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a luxurious double-sized pushchair that is suitable 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 stroller that doesn't fully recline. A crouching position could affect their breathing since they inhale more than normal. This can lead to respiratory issues in the future.

A pushchair is a chair that can be folded into a compact space. It's designed for older babies and toddlers. They're typically constructed from a more durable material compared to prams. There are models where you can alter the direction in which the seat is facing to allow your child to be reassured by you or away from you to explore the world.

Safety

The safety of your baby in a pushchair or pram is essential. It is best to only place your child in a pushchair or pram that has been designed to fit their age and size. This will ensure that they feel secure and safe and will help prevent accidents. When buying a second-hand pushchair or stroller it is essential to conduct visual safety checks. This will ensure that it's in good condition and is not damaged in a way that could be harmful to your child.

When you are choosing a pushchair or pram pick one that comes with a safety harness with simple and quick clips. Check that the buckles are not loose and that the straps fit snugly around your baby's waist. Find models that have a larger base as they will be more stable than models with a smaller base.

Avoid overloadeding your pushchair or pram with items. This can cause it to tip and your baby might be thrown out. Similarly, don't put anything in the storage basket that could fall out and harm your baby - this includes toys, drinks and food items.

Follow the directions given by the manufacturer when cleaning your pram or stroller. If you're cleaning the fabric or cleaning the hood, always dry it thoroughly outside to avoid any mildew or mould from developing.

It's a great idea to wash the removable footmuff of your pram or pushchair before you use it again in winter. You can do this by taking the fabric off and washing it in cool soapy water, and then allowing it to air dry outdoors. You should also brush off any dirt or mud from the axles and wheels.

Experts recommend that babies sit flat in a stroller or pram as early as possible. This will help their development and reduce back problems later on in life.

Retailers and manufacturers are required to fulfill an obligation under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to offer products that are safe to use in normal or reasonably foreseeable use. This is applicable to both new and second hand prams and strollers.

Style

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

When selecting a pushchair or pram, the first thing you need to consider is the seat padding. Babies are messy and so having a pushchair that is easy to clean is important. This is true especially when you plan to use your stroller for long walks on rough terrain, or over dirt and gravel. Choose a stroller with removable seats and recline mechanisms that can be machine washed. Be sure that the fabric is also breathable, which will help keep your baby dry and comfortable.

You should also think about the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. Most 'from-birth' pushchairs allow you to switch the seat to face either parent (facing the parent to reassure and bond) or even world facing so that they can explore the world. Some prams also have this option, but it's not required for all models.

Combination prams are also known as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families since they can accommodate a bassinet basket on the same frame. They are usually designed to be used from birth and are suitable for newborns up to six months.

A travel system is similar to a combination stroller compact in that it allows you to attach a car seat to the frame, using adaptors. These are a great option for babies and toddlers up to three years and can be more affordable than buying separate products.

Twin prams or pushchairs are great option for twin babies or siblings of the same age who need to be transported in safety and comfort. These are available in many styles and can be fitted with either one car seat or a double one.

Stores

Alongside providing comfort and safety for your little one, a pushchair or pram needs to offer plenty of storage for all the essentials. Find models with an ample shopping basket that can contain all your baby's necessities like spare clothes, changing equipment, bottles of water and snacks. Some models include a separate compartment for the parent or child that is ideal for storing your personal items. If you're looking to purchase a stroller with additional storage choose a convertible model that has various configurations. Having extra space is especially important if you're planning to take your child for long walks or on trips away from home and require storage space for everything you'll require.

Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is maneuverability. Opt for swivel wheel options to easily navigate narrow passageways and also look for locking brakes that are responsive enough to stop quickly. If you're considering an ultra-lightweight model, make sure it comes with the correct suspension system and foldable dimensions to facilitate storage and transport. Alternatively, if you want something more robust for off-road use, select a model with robust, all-terrain wheels that can handle rougher terrains better than pavements.

The primary difference between a pram versus a pushchair is that a pushchair offers the option of a lying-flat sleep position for newborns, while pushing chairs are more designed for older children and toddlers who are able to sit up on their own. Some prams are convertible into pushchairs by removing the bassinet and replacing it with an adult seat. Other models like the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle can be converted into a carrycot or car seat.

If you're not sure the type of pram or pushchair to choose look up online reviews and ask friends and family members for recommendations. Test-drive several options before you make your decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their folding capabilities and how they feel. Consider a convertible vehicle, which is suitable for two or more children. This will save you money as you don't have to purchase an entirely new set of wheels each time your child grows.