What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of prams and pushchairs can be confusing. Prams are designed to carry infants and babies. They come with a lie-flat seat.
Prams are also available with a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Some even have the option of changing it into an infant pushchair.
If you are planning to take public transportation or fold your pushchair often, choose a lightweight and compact pushchair.
Comfort
Your pushchair is likely to get utilized more often than your bottles and nappies. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable on every trip by choosing a model that has plenty of padding and a comfortable seat that can be adjusted for the height of your child.
Many buggies, prams and pushchairs come with a blanket to keep your child warm. These can be easily popped into the washing machine and are available in a range of different colours and designs to suit your preference.
A pram is suitable for babies up to six months of age, when they are still at the point that they must lay flat. A carrycot, or bassinet, will be attached to the frame. Most prams offer the option of 'parent ' or 'world-facing. This enables the user to decide whether they prefer your baby to be facing you in order to bond with you, or explore the sights and sounds in their surroundings. Some prams are able to be converted into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a premium single-to-double pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).
It is crucial to remember that infants less than six months old should not be carried in a stroller that doesn't recline fully flat. This is because being in a crouching position can affect their breathing, because it causes them to breathe in more air than they normally do and could cause respiratory problems in the longer term.
A pushchair is a chair on wheels that folds, usually to a very compact size, and is generally designed towards older babies and toddlers up to the age of around three years old. They're typically constructed from a more durable material than prams. There are models where you can alter the direction in which the seat faces to allow your child to face you for reassurance, or away from you to explore the world.
Safety
It is important to ensure that your baby is safe in a pushchair sale or pram. Only ever put your baby in a pushchair or pram designed for his age and size. This will help them feel safe and secure and will prevent accidents. When purchasing a second-hand stroller or pushchair it is crucial to perform visual safety checks. This will ensure that it's in good condition and is not damaged in a way that could cause harm to your child.
When you are choosing a pushchair or pram choose one with a safety harness that has quick and easy clips and connections. Check that the buckles aren't loose and that the straps fit comfortably around your child's waist. Find models with a wider base as they will be more stable than models with a smaller base.
Avoid overloading your pushchair or pram with things. This could cause the pushchair to topple over, and your baby could be thrown out. Do not put anything that can harm your baby inside the basket, such as drinks, snacks, and toys.
Follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean your pushchair or pram. When washing the fabric or cleaning the hood, always dry it thoroughly outside to prevent any mildew or mould from developing.
If your childs pram or pushchair has a removable footmuff, it's best to wash it before using it again in winter. It's as simple as taking the fabric off and washing it in soapy water and allowing it to air dry outdoors. It's also recommended to scrub any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.
Experts suggest that infants lie flat as soon as possible in a pushchair or pram. This will aid in their development and help reduce back pain later in life.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, manufacturers and retailers are required to provide products that are safe for normal or predictable use. This applies to new and second hand prams and strollers.
Style
While some parents are after the most practical set of wheels that they can get their hands on, many want an infant stroller or pushchair that's just as stylish as their brand new baby. There are numerous high-end prams and pushchairs that combine high-end engineering with attractive designs that are both attractive and practical.
The first thing you should consider when selecting a pushchair or pram is the padding and adjustability options. Babies can be messy and having a pram that is easy to clean is important. This is particularly true if you plan to make use of your pushchair for long walks in rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Look for a pushchair with removable seat covers and recline mechanisms that can be machine washed. Be sure that the fabric is also breathable to keep your baby comfortable and dry.
It is also important to consider the direction your baby will be facing in their pushchair. The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow you to change the seat to face either parent (facing the parent to calm and bond) or to the world, so that they can explore the world. Some prams have this option, however it may not be required for all models.
Combination prams are also referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families because they can fit a bassinet basket on the same frame. They are made to be used from birth, and are suitable for children as young as six months old.
A travel system is similar to a stroller combination in that it allows the attachment of a car seat to the frame using adaptors. These are a great option for toddlers and babies until three years old and are cheaper than purchasing separate items.
twin pram prams or pushchairs can be a great option for twin babies or siblings of similar age who require transportation in comfort and safety. They come in a variety of styles and equipped with a single or double car seat.
Stores
A pushchair or pram must not only be secure and comfortable for your child, but offer ample storage for all the necessities. Find models with a large basket to contain all your baby's supplies, such as spare clothes, changing equipment, water bottles and snacks. Some also include a parent or child's compartment which is ideal for keeping all your personal things. If you're looking to purchase a stroller with even more storage consider a convertible pushchair that offers different configurations. The extra space is important if you're planning on take your baby on long walks or trips away from home and require a place to store everything you'll need.
Another important aspect to consider is maneuverability. Choose swivels wheels to navigate narrow passageways easily. Also, look for locking brakes that have a receptive stopping power. If you're looking at a lighter model, make sure it has the right suspension and folding pushchair dimensions for easy transport and storage. If you're looking to buy something more robust for off-road use, select a model with sturdy, all-terrain tires that can handle rougher surfaces.
The main difference between a pram and pushchair is that a pushchair offers the option of a lying-flat sleep position for infants, while a pushchair is more suitable for older infants 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 unsure of which type of pram newborn or pushchair to choose check out reviews on the internet and ask friends and family for recommendations. Try out a variety of models before making a final decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their fold and how they feel. Consider a convertible car, that can be used by one or two children. This will save you money as you don't have to buy a new set of wheels each time your child grows.