Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport
A pushchair, also known as a buggy, pram or stroller, is the Swiss knife of infant transport. These baby-chariots are able to handle any surface, from crowded streets to rough terrain.
A good pushchair offers security and comfort for your baby, convenience for you and a chance to explore the world together. Find out what you should consider when you are buying a pushchair.
Folding
When it comes to choosing a stroller parents are often concerned about the ease to fold it. The EeZeFold is a standout because it features a one-handed fold, which allows you to hold your baby while folding stroller the buggy. This means that you don't need to juggle the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, meaning you don't have to be concerned about the child falling out or getting harmed during this process.
Some folding pushchairs are so compact that they can fit into the boot of your car. They're great for frequent travel or if you have a small vehicle. There are some compact buggies that are ideal for everyday use that have smaller footprints than average pushchair, but still provide decent features like a comfortable recline or light wheels. They are typically light enough to be able to be carried by hand, so Grandma or Grandad can utilize them if they need to.
The majority of these pushchairs are designed at older babies and toddlers since they can sit up, however some offer a lie-flat seat and the option to add an infant carrycot, making them suitable for babies from birth. They might also be compatible with travel systems which means you can connect an infant car seat to the frame with just a click.
While they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggy, many compact Pushchair pushchairs still take up a tiny space when they're folded with the seat in, so they're perfect for those short on storage space in their home or live in an apartment. They're also lightweight and frequently come with a rain cover to shield them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this class is foldable with just the press of the button. It is great to travel with because it's easy to fold. It's also light, making it easy to use even on rough surfaces. It also comes with a great suspension. The seat rotates to turn from parent-facing to world-facing, while the hood can be extended for extra protection and coverage from the sun.
Convertible
A convertible stroller changes form to meet the requirements of families that are growing. It can be a single stroller that transforms into a double stroller in order to accommodate siblings, or even a triple stroller with the addition of an additional seat. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a versatile stroller that is able to be transformed to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for newborns or two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.
Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, such as the height and recline settings. They should also feature large handles that are easy to hold, making it comfortable for mom, dad or grandma to push. And because these types of strollers typically have more parts than traditional pushchairs they need to be more sturdy and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or pushchair With car Seat loads of equipment.
The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a unique model that combines a fully-featured single stroller with the pull wagon, removing the need for parents to purchase separate products. It can be converted quickly and easily to a double or single stroller with no tools or conversion kits, and provides plenty of seating versatility with its second seat and pull handle when in wagon mode. The Larktale is bulkier than our other top convertibles however it offers excellent maneuverability and is able to handle the hills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage space under the seat. Click here for more info.
Safety
A great pushchair should come with several safety features like five-point harnesses for infants. The harness should fit over the shoulders and around the waist, and also between the legs. It is essential that the harness does not come loose, and that there are no areas that children's fingers might be stuck.
Pick the brake that is best suited to your lifestyle. The most common brake is one that is a foot brake. It's great when you frequently stop, like when you go to the shops. A hand brake is found on a lot of jogger-style cheap pushchairs, and is more appropriate if you are going to be able to change momentum frequently, like when you go for an exercise. Some pushchairs feature an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal using your foot. This is a great option for parents who will be frequent stop-and-starts because it allows you to keep your balance and apply pressure to the wheels.
It is also worth checking whether the pushchair has an adjustable front wheel that locks. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas that have uneven terrain or steep slopes. A front wheel that locks can help to prevent the pushchair from slipping away in a hurry or if there is a lot of luggage in the back.
Even though it may seem like a small consideration, you should also consider the weight of the cheap stroller. Even a light pushchair can be quite heavy when loaded up with an expanding child and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the pushchair and think about whether you'd be capable of lifting it into your car boot and up flights of stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a coffee from a takeaway.
Buggy or pram are designed for infants who can sit up. They are typically used after the age of six months. The seat can be positioned towards you or away from you depending on how much you want your child to bond with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs feature adjustable handlebars, seat positions and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents appreciate the convenience features of pushchairs, and there are many to choose from. Some are better suited to urban streets or rough terrain but others are not. The type of brake is another aspect to take into consideration. For instance, a hand brake is great for, everyday use, whereas an active hand brake found on pushchairs with joggers can be more responsive and easy to operate on adventures.
One of the most important features of comfort is whether or not the pushchair has a full lie flat position for babies. Babies need to be lying flat in a position to help them develop their spine, so it's worth choosing a pushchair with this feature right from the start. This will give your baby a relaxing nap or rest, making more time for outdoor adventures and a happier, healthier child.
It's important to choose the right pushchair with the infant car seat you've chosen. This will make it easy for you to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also help keep him calm and reduce fuss.
Some pushchairs have an adaptor for car seats that allows you to easily attach your car seat. It is possible to use the seat from birth until toddlerhood, and save money and time. Many brands also offer a travel system bundle that includes a carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors and footmuff all in one purchase.
A well-designed suspension system is also essential particularly for the front wheels. This can make all the difference when driving over rough terrain or city roads and allows you to negotiate bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while ensuring your baby is comfortable.
Other features for comfort that you might want to check out for include a spacious shopping basket (or even an additional bag) and a adjustable handle bar that can recline, adjustable seat position and the hood that is ventilated. All of these features can help you navigate around town or the country and ensure that your child has the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.