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 babies. They come with a lie-flat seat.
Some prams include the option of a carrycot or bassinet for infants. Some models even have the option of changing it into a pushchair for older children.
If you plan on using public transport or fold your pushchair often, opt for a lightweight and compact pushchair.
Comfort
Alongside bottles and nappies your pushchair is likely to be among the most frequently used baby products you own. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable during every trip by choosing a model with plenty of padding as well as a comfortable seat that can be adjusted for height.
It's important to note that many prams and buggies also come with a fitted pram blanket, which can help to keep your child warm. These blankets are easy to clean and come in a range of colors and designs.
A pram is for newborns from 6 months to 6 years of age, when they are still at the stage where they require to lie flat. A bassinet, or carrycot, will be attached to the frame. Most prams offer the option of either 'parent facing pushchair' facing or world facing. This allows you to choose whether you prefer your child to face you to connect with you, or to explore the sights and sounds in their environment. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 – a luxurious single-to-double pushchair that can be used from birth with a carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg using elevators).
It is important to remember that babies under six months old should not be transported in a pushchair that isn't able to recline completely flat. This is due to the fact that being in a position that is prone to slumber can affect their breathing, since it causes them breathe in more air than they normally do and can even lead to respiratory problems in the longer term.
A pushchair is a seat that can be folded into a compact space. It's specifically designed for older children and toddlers. They're usually made of a more durable material than a pram, and you can usually find models that allow you to change the direction of the seat so that your child can either face you to provide reassurance, or away from you so they can explore the world around them.
Safety
It is important to ensure that your child is safe in a pushchair or pram. You should never place your child in a pushchair or pram that is designed for their size and age. This will make them feel safe and secure, and also prevent accidents. If you are buying a secondhand stroller or pushchair it is essential to conduct a visual safety check. This will ensure that the item is in good condition and not damaged in any way that could be dangerous to your baby.
If you're looking for a pushchair or pram make sure you choose one with a safety harness that includes quick and simple clips and connections. Check that the buckles don't have any looseness, and ensure that the straps fit around your baby's torso. Also, look for a broad base, which will offer more stability than models that have narrow bases.
Be careful not to overload your pushchair or pram with toys. This could cause the pushchair to tip over and your baby may be thrown out. Be careful not to put anything that could hurt your baby in the basket, such as drinks, snacks, and toys.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your pram or triple stroller. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, be sure that you dry it thoroughly. This will stop the growth of mould or mildew.
It's a great idea wash the removable footmuff of your pushchair or pram before you use it again in winter. This can be accomplished by taking the fabric off, washing it in cool water using soap and letting it dry outside. It's also an excellent idea to scrub any dirt or mud off of the wheels and axles.
Experts advise that babies lie flat in a pushchair or pram as early as possible. This will help them develop and reduce the chance of developing back problems as they age.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, manufacturers and retailers are required to offer products that are suitable for normal or reliable use. This is applicable to both new and second-hand prams as well as strollers.
Style
Some parents are looking for the most functional set-up of wheels they can find However, many parents need a pram that is as stylish as their baby. There are numerous high-end prams and pushchairs on the market that combine top-quality engineering with stylish designs that are both appealing and practical.
The first thing you should consider when choosing a pushchair pram is the seat padding and the options for adjustability. Babies can be messy and therefore having a pushchair that's easy to clean is important. This is especially important if you plan to use your pushchair for long walks through rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Look for a pushchair that comes with removable seat covers and a recline mechanisms that can be machine-washed. Make sure the fabric is also breathable to help keep your baby dry and comfortable.
You should also think about the direction your baby will be facing in their pushchair. Most pushchairs with a "from-birth" feature let you switch the seat to face either parent (facing the parent to reassure and bond) or even world facing so that your child can explore the world. Some prams have this option as well, but it's not necessary for all models and could be an option that is only available as an extra.
Combination prams are referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families because they can accommodate a bassinet basket on the same frame. They are designed to be used right from birth, and are suitable for babies as young as six months old.
A travel system is an option to a combined pram, as it permits you to fit car seats on the frame, often using adaptors. They are an excellent choice for toddlers and infants from 3 years old and can be cheaper than purchasing separate items.
Twin prams and pushchairs can be an ideal choice for siblings or twins who want to travel pushchair in comfort and security. They are available in a variety of styles and are able to be fitted either with a single car seat or a double one.
Storage
A pushchair or pram must not only be safe and comfortable for your child, but offer ample storage for all of the essentials. Look for models that have a large basket to contain all your baby's necessities including spare clothes as well as changing equipment, water bottles and even snacks. Some models also have a child's or parent's area which is ideal for keeping all your personal things. If you want a pram with more storage, choose a pushchair with multiple configurations. Having extra space is especially important if you're planning to take your child for long walks or on trips away from home and require storage space for everything you might require.
Another important aspect to consider is the ability to maneuver. Select swivel wheels to navigate through narrow passageways with ease. Also, look for locking brakes with a quick stopping power. If you're thinking of a light model, make sure it has the right suspension and folding dimensions to make it easy to transport and store. Alternatively, if you want something that is more durable for off-roading, pick an option with strong, all-terrain wheels that can be able to withstand rougher terrain than pavements.
The primary difference between a pram versus a pushchair is that a pram offers an easy, flat sleeping position for infants, whereas a pushchair is more designed for older children and toddlers who are able to sit up on their own. Some prams can be converted into a pushchair by removing 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 the car seat or carrycot.
If you're not sure which type of pushchair or pram to pick check out online reviews and ask friends and family members for recommendations. Try out a variety of models before making a final decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their folding capabilities and how they feel. Consider a convertible car which is suitable for two or more children. This will save you money as you don't have to buy an entirely new set of wheels every time your child grows.