Choosing a Pushchair Stroller
A pram or pushchair is a must-have for any baby's kit. The best pushchair for your child depends on their age and lifestyle.
Check the seat recliner. Some pushchairs are suitable for newborns, and can be used as early as the time of birth. Other pushchairs are only recommended from six months.
Comfort
A good prams pushchair must be comfortable for both the baby as well as the parent facing pushchair. This is where the suspension system comes in. It may not be important when you are only planning on using your pushchair for local trips to the shops however if you plan on going on country walks and other activities, an upgraded suspension is required. The seat design and quality of padding are also crucial factors in this regard.
The recline mechanism is another important aspect. The backrest must be capable of recline so that your baby can lie in a completely flat position for sleeping. It is also important to think about the ease of operation. Certain systems utilize drawstrings or straps that are difficult to operate with just one hand, whereas others are more user-friendly, and come with 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 choosing a pushchair because it will make your life easier and more organized. It is worth checking that the storage area is accessible and opens and closed with just one hand - especially when you're holding children or juggling shopping bags!
The size and type wheels of your pushchair can be crucial, based on how you plan to use it. Larger wheels provide an easier ride, while smaller wheels are more lightweight stroller and easier to maneuver. You can test the ease of a pushchair to manoeuvre by adding weight to the seat and then pushing it around. It is also worth checking the brakes and swivel lock mechanisms to see how they work. These features are often overlooked, but they can make a huge difference to the usability of your pushchair. Check that the pushchair is easy to fold, especially if it will be used for transportation and getting on and off trains and buses. Many manufacturers produce lightweight pushchairs that can be folded down in a matter of seconds and then tucked in a compact space for transportation. They are a great benefit for busy parents!
Safety
A good pushchair will have many safety features to make sure your child is secure in the seat. A five-point safety harness is vital. It has two straps that go around the shoulders, and two straps around the hips, and one strap between the legs. This is the best travel stroller method to stop your child from being able to wriggle out of the seat, but it is crucial to fasten it correctly.
Flexible tyres: Depending on the lifestyle you lead your pushchair might require different terrains and surfaces. Certain tyres are better suited to the city, whereas others are more rugged. You might also choose all-terrain wheels that are equally effective off-road and on.
Simple-to-use brakes - Having sturdy brakes that can be operated easily is essential for any pushchair. Look for brakes that can be activated by pressing on only one pedal, and check that they are not loose or sticking out in ways that could be caught on clothing or other items. Avoid those that require you press both brakes at the same time, because this can be dangerous and difficult for newly-born mothers.
Sun canopy - A canopy can shield your baby from the sun and keep them cool. Some designs have transparent sections that allow parents to observe their child without having to remove it.
Handles - The design of the handle is important, as it determines how it is easy to use your pushchair. Look for handles that have ergonomic designs and a grip that is comfortable in your hand and is the perfect height for your age. Look for an unlinked or single handle and think about whether you'd prefer an umbrella fold to make storage easier.
A great pushchair must have an item basket to store things, and some even include a rain cover. However, it is vital to keep in mind that a stroller shouldn't be overloaded because this could cause it to tip and hurt your child. Always read the directions of the manufacturer to determine how much weight the basket can support. Also, do not hang bags from the handles.
Design
There are many kinds of pushchairs ranging from buggies to strollers, and prams, so picking the one that best suits your lifestyle is vital. Think about whether you need it to fold flat, fit in the car boot or off and on public transport, as this will impact on the ease of use on a day-to-day basis.
If you're planning to go off-road with your baby, look for a model that has suspension for an enjoyable ride. Also, consider the type of handlebars. The ones that can be adjusted to accommodate people of different heights are more comfortable to push, especially when they are used to spending long periods of time in one spot. It is also beneficial to have the ability to lock the swivel wheel which will improve maneuverability on uneven surfaces.
Also, consider the size of the storage container as it will impact on the amount of stuff you can carry with you. If you are going to be out shopping or carrying other baby items like a bottle and a changing mat, it could be worth selecting a bigger basket. Other features that are beneficial include adjustable leg rests, which are ideal for putting your child in a more comfy position. A majority of pushchairs have the sunshade to shield your child from the 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 an incline seat that is suitable for infants and newborns and a pushchair is made for toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some models are a mix of the two. For example 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 models come with a seat that can be oriented either towards the user or towards you.
If you want to be able to take your stroller on and off public transport, then it should be able to climb and descend stairs or escalators as well as being able to fit through doorways. Some pushchairs are difficult to manage this and you should test it before you buy it.
Folding
A pushchair is a child carriage on wheels, designed to accommodate newborns as well as older children until the age of three or four. Some pushchairs are suitable for babies from birth and allow them to lay flat, with the front facing upwards. Others include an infant seat adapter that allows you to attach a car seat or carrycot.
A high-quality pushchair will be easy to maneuver and will fold flat for storage when not in use. It should have a reliable brake system for safety and convenience. A hood is recommended to protect your baby from the elements of wind and sun. It is essential to keep in mind that a stroller will require regular cleaning to ensure it is in good working condition.
The fabric and the removable components like the hood should be easy to wash. 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 using a soft brush (do this outdoors to avoid spreading mould). The pushchair needs to completely dry before it can be used again.
The cheapest and most popular pushchairs are made of aluminum, which is a light frame and hard rubber tires. They can be used on all surfaces, including city streets as well as country trails. Some pushchairs are made for different terrains, with features such as 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 fit in small trunks to transport it and also in your living room for storage. Some models can be folded in just a few seconds using one hand.
The Cybex Priam pushchair is one example, and it is also compatible with the UPPAbaby Piggyback ride-along boards for siblings to join in on the fun. This stroller is perfect for those looking for a compact but practical pushchair. It has a large basket and is built to last.
