What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams can be confusing. Prams are designed to transport infants and babies. They come with a lying-flat seat.

Prams can also come with a bassinet or a carrycot for newborns. Some even have the option of changing it into a pushchair for older babies.

If you intend to take public transport or need to fold up your pushchair regularly, opt for a lightweight and compact buggy.

Comfort

Your pushchair is likely to get more frequently used than your nappies and bottles. It is important to choose one that is full of padding, a comfortable seat and can be adjusted to height.

It's important to note that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a fitted pram blanket that can help to keep your child warm. They can be popped in the wash and are available in a variety of colors and designs to suit your style.

A pram is designed for infants up to around six months old, while they're still at a stage where they need to lie flat, typically with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. Many prams allow the choice of 'parent facing or 'world-facing.' This allows you to choose whether you want your baby to face you in order to bond with you, or to explore the sights and sounds in their environment. Some prams pushchairs prams convert into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 – a premium single-to-double pushchair which can be used from birth with a carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg using elevators).

It is vital to remember that babies under six months old shouldn't be carried in a pushchair that doesn't recline fully flat. Traveling in a crouching position can affect their breathing as they breathe in more air than they would normally. This could cause respiratory problems in the future.

A pushchair is a vehicle on wheels that folds typically, to a small size. It's usually geared towards toddlers and older babies that are around three years old. These are often constructed of a stronger material than prams. You can also find models that allow you to change the direction the seat is facing so that your child can face you for reassurance, or away from you to explore the world.

Safety

The safety of your child in a pushchair or pram is vital. You should only ever place your child in a pushchair or pram that is made for their size and age. This will help them feel safe and secure, and also prevent accidents. If you're buying a baby pushchair or pram used, it's important to conduct visual safety inspections. This will ensure that the item is in good working order and isn't damaged in any way that could pose a risk to your baby.

When you are choosing a pram or pushchair make sure you choose one equipped with a safety harness that has quick and easy clips and connections. Verify that the buckles aren't loose and that the straps fit comfortably around your baby's waist. Also, look for a wide base, which will give more stability than models that have narrow bases.

Be careful not to overload your pushchair or pram with things. This can cause the pushchair to fall over, and your baby could be thrown out. Be careful not to put anything that could harm your baby inside the basket, such as drinks, snacks, or toys.

Make sure you follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean your pram or pushchair. If you're washing the fabric or cleaning the hood, make sure you dry it thoroughly outside to prevent any mould or mildew developing.

It's a great idea to wash the removable footmuff on your pushchair or pram before you return to it in winter. You can do this by removing the fabric and washing it in cool soapy water, then leaving it to air dry outside. It's also a good idea to brush any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.

Experts suggest that babies sit flat in a stroller or pram as early as they can. This will aid their development and help reduce back pain later in life.

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

Style

While some parents are looking for the most efficient set of wheels they have access to most parents would prefer a pram or pushchair that is as stylish as their new baby. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality pushchairs and prams on the market that combine quality engineering with fetching designs that are as striking as they are practical.

The first thing to consider when choosing a pushchair pram is the seat padding and adjustable options. A pushchair that is easy to clean is essential for infants, who can be messy. This is especially important in the event that you plan to take long walks through rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Find a pushchair that has removable seat covers and recline mechanisms which can be washed in the machine. Make sure the fabric is machine washable to keep your baby dry and comfortable.

It is also important to consider the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. Most pushchairs with a "from-birth" feature allow you to switch the seat to face either parent (facing the parent to reassure and bond) or to the world, so that your child can explore the world. Some prams have this option, however it's not a requirement for all models.

Combination prams, also referred to as 3-in-1 prams, are a popular option for families because they can accommodate an infant basket and an infant seat on the same frame. They are usually designed to be used from birth and are suitable for babies from 6 months to.

A travel system is an alternative to a combination pram, as it permits you to fit car seats on the frame too, usually by using adaptors. They are perfect for babies and toddlers from birth to three years old and can be less expensive than buying separate products.

Twin prams and pushchairs are a great choice for twins or siblings who require safety and comfort. They are available in a range of styles and Compact Strollers are equipped with a double or single car seat.

Stores

In addition to providing security and comfort for your little one, a pram or pushchair needs to offer plenty of storage for all the essentials. Look for models that have a spacious shopping basket that can store everything your baby needs including spare clothing as well as changing gear, bottles of water and snacks. Some models come with a compartment for the parent or child, which is perfect for storing your personal items. If you're looking for a pram with even more storage, opt for a convertible pushchair that comes with various configurations. The extra space is crucial if you plan to take your child for long walks or excursions away from home and need an area to store anything you'll require.

Maneuvrability is another important feature to consider. Select swivel wheels to navigate narrow passageways easily. Also, look for locking brakes with a quick stopping power. If you're considering a lightweight model, ensure it has the proper suspension and folding pram dimensions for easy transport and storage. If you're looking for something more durable for off-road travel then select a model with robust all-terrain tires that can be able to handle the rougher terrain.

The main difference between a pram and pushchair is that a pram offers an easy, flat sleeping position for infants, whereas the pushchair is better suited to older babies and toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some prams can be transformed 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 convert into an automobile seat or a carrycot.

If you're unsure of which type of pushchair or pram to pick look up online reviews and ask your friends and family members for recommendations. If you are able, test-drive several models before making your decision to get an idea of how they feel and fold, and how heavy they are. You may also want to think about whether a convertible model is the right option for you, because they can be used interchangeably between one or two babies and save money on buying an entirely new set wheels each time your little one grows up!