What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams are designed to transport infants and toddlers with a lie-flat seat.
Prams can also come with a bassinet or a carrycot for infants. Some can be converted into a pushchair when the baby is older.
If you plan to take public transportation or fold your pushchair often pick a light and compact pushchair.
Comfort
Alongside bottles and nappies your pushchair is likely to be one of the most used baby products you have. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure your child is comfortable on every trip by choosing a model that has plenty of padding and a comfortable seat that can be adjusted to height.
It's also worth noting that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a fitted twin pram blanket that helps to keep your child warm. They are easy to clean and come in a variety of colours and designs.
A pram is specifically designed for babies who are around six months old, while they're still in the stage of development that they must lay flat, usually with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. Most prams have the option of facing the parents and the world facing', which means you can decide whether to let your baby face you to bond or allow them to explore the sights and sounds around them. Some prams are convertible into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 – a premium single-to-double pushchair which can be used from birth with a carrycot up to 25kg (15kg with elevators).
The most important thing to keep in mind is that infants and toddlers shouldn't be using any pushchair that doesn't recline to a fully flat position. Traveling in a crouching position can affect their breathing as they breathe in more air than they would normally. This can lead to respiratory issues in the long run.
A pushchair is a chair that folds down into a small space. It's designed for older babies and toddlers. They're often made from a more durable material than a pram. You can typically find models that allow you to switch the direction of the seat so that your child can either face towards you to feel safe or away from you so they can explore the world around them.
Safety
The safety of your baby in a pram or pushchair is crucial. You should never put your child in a pram or pushchair that has been made for their size and age. This will ensure that they feel safe and secure, and will prevent accidents. If you are buying a secondhand stroller or pushchair, it is important to perform visual safety checks. This will ensure that the item is in good condition and not damaged in any way that could pose danger for your child.
If you're looking for a pushchair or pram choose one with a safety harness that includes quick and simple clips and connections. Verify that the buckles are not loose and that the straps are snugly around your child's waist. Find models with a wider base as they are more stable than models with a narrow base.
Be careful not to overload your pushchair or pram with toys. This can cause the pushchair to fall over and your baby may be thrown out. Similarly, don't put anything in the storage basket that could fall out and hurt your baby - this includes toys, drinks and snacks.
Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your stroller or pram. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your triple pram, make sure to dry it outside thoroughly. This will prevent mould or mildew from forming.
It's a good idea to clean the removable footmuff that comes with your pushchair or pram prior to when you return to it in winter. You can do this by removing the fabric and washing it in soapy water and allowing it to air dry outdoors. It's also a good idea to brush any dirt or mud off of the wheels and axles.
Experts recommend that infants lie flat as soon as possible in a pram or pushchair. This will aid their development and lower the chance of developing back problems as they grow older.
Manufacturers and retailers have an obligation under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to provide products that are safe in normal or reasonably foreseeable use. This applies to new pushchairs and prams as well as second-hand ones.
Style
Some parents want the most practical set-up of wheels they can get, but many parents also require a stroller that is as stylish as their baby. There are a variety of high-end prams and pushchairs on the market that combine high-quality engineering with stylish designs that are both attractive and practical.
The first thing you should consider when choosing a pushchair pram is the padding and adjustable options. A pushchair that is simple to clean is essential for infants, who are often messy. This is especially important in the event that you plan to use your pushchair for long walks in rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Find a pushchair that has removable seat covers and recline mechanisms which can be washed in the machine. Check that the fabric can be washed by machine to keep your baby comfortable and dry.
You should also think about the direction your baby stroller will face in their pushchair. Most 'from-birth' pushchairs allow you to change the seat from parent facing (facing the parent to calm and bond) or world facing, so that they can explore the world. Some models have this option as well, but it's not a necessity for all models and could only be an optional extra.
Combination prams are referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families because they can accommodate an infant bassinet on the same frame. They are designed to be used right from birth, and are suitable for babies from six months old to.
A travel system is a similar alternative to a combination pram, as it permits you to put car seats onto the frame too, usually with adaptors. They are an excellent choice for toddlers and babies up to three years and are more cost effective than buying separate products.
twin stroller prams and pushchairs can be an ideal choice for twins or siblings who want to travel in the comfort and safety of. They are available in a range of styles and can be fitted with a double or single car seat.
Stores
Alongside providing safety and comfort to your child the pram or pushchair needs to offer plenty of storage space for all the necessities. Look for models that have a large shopping basket to contain all the baby's items, such as spare clothes as well as changing equipment, water bottles, and snacks. Some models come with a compartment for the child or parent that is ideal to keep your personal belongings. If you're looking to purchase a stroller with more storage space consider a convertible pushchair that comes with various configurations. The extra space is crucial if you plan to take your child on long walks or excursions away from home and need a place to store everything you'll require.
Another key feature to consider is maneuverability. Opt for swivel wheels to effortlessly navigate narrow spaces, and look out for brakes with locking that are responsive enough to stop quickly. If you are looking at a light-weight model, make sure it comes with the correct suspension system and foldable dimensions for simple storage and transportation. If you're looking for something more robust for off-roading, choose a model that has sturdy, all-terrain tires that can be able to handle the rougher terrain.
A pram is designed to offer an easy sleeping position for infants. A pushchair is better designed for older babies and toddlers that can stand up on their own. Some prams are able to be converted to a pushchair by taking out the bassinet and replacing it with a seat while other models, such as the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one prams that convert into a car seat or carrycot.
Whatever type of pram or pushchair you pick, make sure to read reviews online and seek recommendations from friends and family. Test-drive several options before you make your decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their fold and how they feel. You may also want consider whether a convertible model is the right option for you, because they can be used interchangeably between two children and save money on purchasing a new set of wheels every time your baby gets older!