Choosing a Pushchair Stroller
A pushchair, also referred to as a pram, is a vital part of baby kit. The best pushchair for your child is based on their age and their lifestyle.
Some pushchairs feature an adjustable seat that is suitable for infants and may be used from birth, while others are only recommended to be used from six months. It's important to check.
Comfort
A good pushchair will be comfortable for the baby and the parent. The suspension system is an important aspect in this. If you plan to use your pushchair just for short excursions, a less expensive suspension might suffice. However, if you plan to go on country walks or other excursions, a higher quality suspension is required. Design of the seat and padding are also crucial in this regard.
The recline mechanism is an additional important element. The backrest should be capable of recline so that your baby can lie in a flat position for sleeping. It is also important to think about the ease of use. Certain systems come with straps or drawstrings that is difficult to operate with one hand. Others are more user-friendly using levered mechanisms.
Many pushchairs have storage facilities for all the essential baby items, such as diapers, snacks, and wipes. When selecting a pushchair, you should think about this feature, as it will make life easier and more organized. It is essential to make sure that the storage is easy to access and can be opened and closed by one hand - especially if you are holding children or juggling shopping bags!
Depending on the way you plan to use your pushchair the size and style of wheels are important. The larger wheels offer the most stable ride, while the smaller wheels are lighter, more maneuverable and more lightweight. Check the ease of moving a pushchair by adding some weight on its seat and moving it around. Check the brakes and swivel locks to determine whether they work. These features are often overlooked however they can make a significant difference in how easy your pushchair will be to use. It is also crucial to ensure that the pushchair folds effortlessly, especially if you plan to use it for travel and getting in and out of buses and trains. Many manufacturers produce lightweight pushchairs that fold down in a matter of seconds and then tucked into a small space to transport. These are a great bonus for parents with busy schedules.
Safety
A good pushchair will have many safety features to ensure your child is safe in the seat. A five-point harness is crucial - it has two straps that are secured around the shoulders, two straps around the hips and one between the legs. This is the best way to prevent your child from being in the seat. It is important to secure it properly.
Versatile tyres - Depending on your lifestyle, you may need your pushchair to be able to handle different surfaces and terrains. Certain types of tyres are more suitable for the city, while others are more rugged. You could also opt for all-terrain wheels, which are equally effective off-road and on.
Reliable brakes that are easy to operate are essential for any pushchair. Find brakes that can be operated by pressing only one pedal. Also, ensure that they're not loose and that the pedals do not become stuck or caught in clothing or other objects. Avoid those that require you to press both brakes simultaneously in order to use them, as this could be a risky and difficult for parents who are new.
Sun canopy - A canopy can shield your child from the sun and keep them cool. Some models have transparent sections that allow parents to monitor the child without having to remove it.
Handles - The design of the handle is important, since it determines how easy it is to operate your pushchair. Choose handles that are ergonomically designed, with a grip that is comfortable in your hands and at a height that is suitable for your age and build. Think about whether you prefer a single handle or a linked handle. Also, consider whether an umbrella fold is more practical for storage.
A quality pushchair should have a basket for storing items, and some even include rain covers. However, it is vital to keep in mind that a stroller should never be loaded too much because this could cause it to tip over and cause injury to your child. You should always read the directions of the manufacturer to determine how much capacity the basket can handle. Also, avoid hanging bags from the handles.
Design
There are many types of pushchairs, from buggies to strollers, and prams - so choosing the one that suits your needs best is crucial. Consider whether you would like it to to fit in a car boot, or baby mobility to be able to be able to take it off and on public transportation. This will affect how easy it is to manage on a daily basis.
If you are planning to travel off-road with your baby, make sure you choose a bike with suspension to ensure a comfortable ride. Also, consider the type of handlebars. Those that are adjustable to accommodate individuals of all heights tend to be more comfortable for pushing, especially if you spend long periods of time in the same position. The ability to lock swivel wheels also be beneficial, as this will help with maneuverability on uneven surfaces.
Consider the size of the storage basket as it will effect on the amount you can carry with you. You may want to choose the largest basket if intend to shop or carry other baby items like a bottle or changing pad. Adjustable leg rests are another useful feature that can aid in positioning your child in the most comfortable position. Many pushchairs come with a sunshade that protects your child from sun. If not, then you can add an extendable parasol with SPF 50+ to the frame.
The main difference between a pram and a pushchair is that a double pram and pushchair comes with a seat that can be laid down suitable for infants and newborns while a pushchair is designed for toddlers who can sit up on their own. There are however some models that are a combination of both such as 3-in-1 models or 2-in-1 models that include a seat that is able to either face away from you or towards you.
You should be able to move your pushchair up and down escalators and stairs as well as through doors. Some pushchairs can be difficult to maneuver so be sure to test it before you buy it.
Folding
A pushchair is a baby carriage on wheels, designed to fit newborns and older children until the age of three or four. Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, allowing them to lie flat and face upwards or they might include an infant car seat adapter that allows you to connect a carrycot or car seat which is useful to travel with and for parents who want their child to be facing rear all the time.
A high-quality pushchair will be easy to manoeuvre and folds flat for storage when not in use. It should have a reliable brake system to ensure safety and comfort. A hood is recommended to shield your child from the sun and wind. Remember that a pushchair needs to be regularly cleaned to ensure that it functions properly.
It should be easy to clean the fabric and any other parts that are removable like the hood. The hood can be cleaned by using a vacuum cleaner attachment, and you can soak the fabric in warm soapy water, then brush off any dirt or mildew using a soft brush (do this outdoors to avoid spreading mould). The pushchair should be allowed to dry completely before it is able to be used again.
The most popular and inexpensive pushchairs usually have a light aluminum frame and hard rubber tyres. They can be used on a variety of surfaces such as urban streets and countryside trails. Some pushchairs are specifically designed to be used on different terrains, and have features like swivel and lockable wheels to handle tricky turns or rough terrain.
Choosing a pushchair that is easy to fold and compact when not in use will save you space, since it will be tucked away in small trunks to transport it and also in your living room for storage. Some models fold in seconds with just one hand.
The Cybex Priam pushchair is one example, and it's also compatible with the UPPAbaby Piggyback ride-along board for siblings to join in the fun. This stroller is a fantastic option for parents who want an easy-to-use pushchair that is full of utility, but it still has a large shopping basket and a robust construction.