Choosing the Right prams pushchairs (website)
If you're a parent-to-be it's worthwhile investing in a pram that will last. Look for models that fold up to an elegant size and are easy to maneuver and come with the right accessories.
For infants, a pram that allows a full lie flat position is essential as lying completely flat helps with spinal and lung development. Newborns can also be placed in a carrycot or cocoon that is attached to the chassis of the pram.
The right pram
A pram or pushchair is a thing that children will spend much time in, so it's important to choose the best one to meet their needs. The factors to consider include the size and weight of the pram, options for storage, the safety features, as well as the overall design and feel.
Consider your life style. If you're frequent users of public transportation, a lightweight and compact stroller might be the best option. Families who like to walk or hike may find an all-terrain stroller better suited to rough terrain. If you're planning to travel, you may consider a stroller for travel that can be folded down so that it can fit in the overhead luggage compartment on flights.
Decide if you'd prefer a four-wheeled or three-wheeled pram. Three-wheeled prams tend to be more stable on rough surfaces, however, four-wheeled models offer more manoeuvrability and can handle heavier loads. It's a good idea go to shops that permit you to test-drive prams, as this will allow you to get an understanding of the way they move, and how easy or difficult it is to push them.
When deciding on the kind of pram to purchase, you should look for one that is compliant with Australian Product Safety Standards. This includes a five-point safety harness, a locking system on the brakes and an adult tether strap that can be used to keep children in a safe place if the pram tips over.
Think about adding accessories to your pram such as a sun canopy or a footmuff. A sun canopy can shield your child from sun's rays and help prevent overheating. Make sure that the canopy is UPF 50+ rating.
Another thing to think about is a diaper bag. A changing bag is the ideal option to carry baby's essentials. It usually has numerous compartments and pockets that are ideal for toys, snacks and nappies. You may find that the prams you choose come with a fold-away changing mat. This makes it easy and easy diaper-changing. A soft liner and waterproof material are the most important features to look for in the changing pad.
Convertible prams
Convertible prams can be an excellent option if you want a pushchair that grows with your family. They usually start out as single prams but with the option of adding a second seat or a carrycot, and can also take car seats if necessary. These models are very flexible and are the most popular option for parents with growing children.
Apart from having a fashionable design, these prams are typically lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. Some come with a huge canopy that provides excellent UV protection and plenty of storage. These are great for running errands, or for getting to and from parks.
The Joolz Geo 3 pram is a sleek and robust stroller that's easy to move. It's suitable for infants to toddlers. It's available in a range of colors and comes with a five-point harness for safety and locking wheels. It's also incredibly spacious and has a tall seat that makes it comfortable for older children.
The Cybex Gazelle is a different great alternative. It can be used as a single or double and has a seat as well as a crib. It can accommodate a kidboard for friends or siblings. It is a breeze to move even when stuffed with groceries and multiple children.
Check out the egg2 if looking for a stylish and budget-friendly double pram. It has an elegant design and comes in several different colors. It can be used as a twin pram, or with seats in combination and an infant carrycot that is suitable for children up to four years old.
Bugaboo Donkey 5 is another excellent alternative. The latest version is simpler to fold and steer than its predecessor. It's also more durable and comes with a bigger shopping basket. It can also be transformed into a twin pram by securing two cocoons together. If you require a third seat, you can add an infant car seat or bassinet.
Side-by-side prams
Whether you're expecting twins or have a toddler and a young baby, a good quality double pushchair can make family trips much more comfortable. They're also referred to as tandem strollers, and allow your children to sit together and look at each one another. They are also wider than single-to-double strollers however, they are still easy to maneuver between kerbs.
They may have an attachment on the front for a third child that's commonly referred to as a joey chair and can be an excellent way to keep kids close while giving them an expansive view of the world around them. If you're thinking of this option, be sure to check if the model you're considering includes this feature. There are a lot of options there such as the Valco Baby Trend Duo twin stroller or Zoe Twin Trio stroller.
Twin prams are a popular choice because they can be used from birth and accommodate newborns in their carrycots or toddlers with their seats. Some are designed to be double buggie, however others like the Cybex Venus Twin convert into a single buggy with a spacious basket under the seat. This is helpful when your child is old enough to walk.
You can also consider an asymmetrical pram, like the Phil & Teds Vist v2 double pram pushchair. It is sturdy and has plenty of storage. There's also an option to include a second seat which means you can take a third child. The hood was too short for my friend's tall child, however it's an excellent choice when you have children who are older.
Anything that can carry two babies is likely to be very heavy, especially if using it with a baby in a carrycot, and a toddler in the seat. Make sure you know the amount that the entire pushchair (including the seats and carrycots) weighs before purchasing as this could be a major issue for certain families. Some models have limits on the weight of the seats and carrycots, as well as a maximum frame weight that can help you decide what's best for your family. The Joolz Geo 3 Twin, for instance is a model that has a maximum weight of 16kg for each seat.
Twin prams
Twin prams are essential for parents with two children of the same age. There are numerous double travel systems on the market. They vary in style and cost, however all come with safety features.
Inline twin prams typically feature one seat over the other, with a canopy in between. These types of prams have become popular because they offer a lot of shade and protection from the elements. Some also come with peek-a-boo hoods that allow parents to keep a close eye on their children. However, this kind of twin pram can be difficult to manoeuvre up and down kerbs and is usually quite heavy making it difficult to fit in car boots.
Side-by-side twin prams are generally larger overall and provide more seating flexibility. They can be used in conjunction with twin infant car seat systems to create a complete travel system. They do have a drawback however. Children aren't separated and this can lead to snack-stealing or toy fighting.
Tandem prams are initially single buggies. They can be upgraded to include a second seat at the front, back or under. Most tandems are designed with an upper bassinet and a toddler sitting in the second position. This is a great and cost-effective solution for parents with twins or children who are different age groups.
Modern twin prams are smaller and easier to move. This can reduce the space available to store nappy bags as well as shopping. It can be a challenge to get twin prams in and out of the boot of a vehicle, especially in the case of an SUV with a lip that you need to lift up to get the pram in.