Choosing a Pushchair Stroller
A pram or pushchair is a must-have for any baby's kit. Selecting the right one for you is dependent on your child's age and needs.
Make sure the recliner is in place. Some pushchairs are suitable to newborns, and can be used as early as birth. Others are only recommended after six months.
Comfort
A good pushchair should be comfortable for both the baby and the parent facing pram. The suspension system is a major element in this. It might not be a major factor if you only plan on using your pushchair for local trips to the shops however, if you are going on country walks and other activities, a better suspension will be needed. Design of the seat and padding are equally important in this aspect.
Another crucial aspect is the recline mechanism. The backrest needs to be able to recline flat so that your child can sleep in a flat position. It is also important to consider the ease of use. Some systems use a strap or drawstring that can be difficult to operate with just one hand, while others are more user-friendly and feature levered mechanisms.
Many pushchairs have storage compartments for the most important baby items such as diapers wipes, and snacks. This is something to consider when selecting a pushchair, as it can simplify your life and more organised. It is worth checking that the storage area is accessible and can be opened and closed with just one hand, particularly when you're carrying a child and carrying shopping bags!
Based on how you plan to use your pushchair, the size and type of wheels you choose can be crucial. Larger wheels give you the most stable ride while smaller wheels are more lightweight and easier to maneuver. You can test out the ease with which a pushchair is to maneuver by adding weight to the seat and pushing it around. Check the brakes and swivel locks to see if they work. These features are often ignored however they can make a big difference in the ease with which your pushchair will be to use. It is also essential to ensure that the pushchair folds effortlessly particularly if you intend on using it for traveling and getting into and out of buses and trains. Many manufacturers make lightweight pushchairs which can be folded in seconds. They are also easy to transport. These are a great bonus for parents with busy schedules.
Safety
A quality pushchair comes with a number safety features that ensure your child's safety in the seat. A five-point harness is vital - it has two straps that are secured around the shoulders, two around the hips and another between the legs. This is the best method to stop your child being able to slide out of the seat, although it's important that you always fix it correctly.
Variable tyres – Depending on your lifestyle, you might want your pushchair to be able to cope with different terrains and surfaces. Some tyres are better for urban and town life and others are more durable and you may opt for all-terrain wheels that offer the same performance in urban areas as they offer off-road.
Simple-to-use brakes A pushchair should have brakes that are safe and simple to operate. Look for brakes that can be operated by pressing one pedal. Also, ensure that they're not sagging and that the pedals do NOT stick out or get caught in clothing or other objects. Avoid those that require you to press both brakes simultaneously, as this can be difficult and dangerous for parents who are new.
Sun canopy - A canopy can shield your child from the sun and keep them cool. Some designs include transparent portions that allow parents to monitor their child without removing the canopy.
Handles - The design of the handle is also an important factor to think about, since it will determine how easy your pushchair is to use. Choose handles that are ergonomically designed, with an ergonomic grip that feels comfortable in your hands and at an appropriate height for your height and age. Look for an unlinked or single handle and consider if you'd prefer an umbrella fold for easier storage.
A good pushchair should also have a basket for storing items and some come with a rain cover. However, it is vital to remember that a stroller travel shouldn't be overloaded, as this can cause it to tip and hurt your child. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions to find out how much capacity your basket can carry and don't hang bags on the handles.
Design
There are many different categories of pushchairs ranging from prams to buggies strollers, travel pushchair systems and strollers choosing the one that best fits your needs is essential. Think about whether you want it to be able to fit into the car boot, or take it off and on public transportation. This will impact how easy it is to manage on a daily basis.
If you're planning to go off-road with your baby, look for a model that has suspension to ensure the most comfortable ride. Also, think about the style of handlebars. Those that are adjustable to suit people of all sizes tend to be more comfortable for pushing, particularly when you're spending long periods of time in the same position. The ability to lock swivel wheels will also be beneficial, since this can help you maneuver on uneven surfaces.
Take into consideration the size of your storage container, as it will impact how much you can carry with you. If you're going to be out shopping or carrying other baby items, such as bottles and a changing mat, it may be worth choosing a bigger basket. Adjustable leg rests are another helpful feature that will assist you in placing your child in the most comfortable position. Many pushchairs include a sunshade that protects your child from sun. If not, then you can add an extendable shade with SPF 50+ to the frame.
The main difference between the two is that a pram has a lie-down seat that is suitable for infants and newborns, whilst the pushchair is designed for toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some models combine of both. For instance, 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 models have a seat that can be oriented either towards the user or towards you.
You should be able to move your pushchair up and down escalators and stairs, as well as through doorways. It isn't easy for some pushchairs to fit through doors. Test it beforehand.
Folding
A pushchair is a baby wheeled carriage, designed to accommodate newborns as well as 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 adapter for infant car seats to allow you to attach an infant car seat or carrycot that can be useful for traveling and also for parents who want their child to face rear at all times.
A high-quality pushchair is easy to move and folds flat when not in use. It should also come with an efficient brake system to ensure security and comfort, as well as an hood to shield the baby from wind and sun. Keep in mind that a pushchair has to be cleaned regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
It should be easy to clean the fabric and any removable parts, such as the hood. The hood can be cleaned using the attachment of a vacuum cleaner and you can soak the fabric in soapy water and brush off any dirt or mildew with a soft brush (do this outdoors to avoid spreading mould). The pushchair needs to dry completely before being put back into use.
The most well-known and affordable pushchairs generally have a light aluminum frame and hard rubber tyres. They can be used on all surfaces including city streets and country trails. Some pushchairs are designed to be used on different terrains, and have features like swivel and locking wheels that can handle difficult turns or rough terrain.
When not in use a compact and easy-to-fold pushchair will help you save space. It can be stored in your living space or tucked away in a trunk for transportation. Certain models can be folded with one hand, turning them from baby chariot to luggage in a matter of seconds.
The Cybex Priam pushchair is an of the models, and it's also compatible with the UPPAbaby Piggyback ride-along board for siblings to join in the fun. This clever babiie stroller is an excellent option for parents who want an easy-to-use pushchair that is full of practicality, but it has a big shopping basket and sturdy build.