What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys
Whether you’re looking for a pram, pushchair or a buggy, Pushchairs there are lots of factors to consider. Think about how much you’ll need to spend, if you want something smaller or more spacious and how easy it is to clean.
Look for models that have a reclining seat with several positions, and a bassinet or carrycot for newborns. Check that they are completely flat as this is vital for the development of the spine of your baby.
Safety
If you’re out and about with your child in a pram or pushchair it is important to adhere to safety guidelines so that your baby is safe and secure. Check the pushchair or stroller’s weight limits for carriages to avoid overloading as this could damage or cause instability. Avoid putting pillows or blankets in the childs pram as this could be dangerous for your child, particularly in the event of an accident. Similarly, don’t let older siblings play on the pram or stroller as it could pose a risk.
Find a pushchair that has extra padding particularly in the headrest, to shield your child from getting hit by objects while out and around. It’s also recommended to select an infant triple stroller with padded headrests, as it will help protect your child from bumping into things when out and out and about.
Some pushchairs and prams come with the bassinet attachment, which is perfect for babies to lie on their backs cozy, cocooned and comfy. Some prams and pushchairs have a carrycot that can be removed once your baby is able to sit. Some prams will also offer a seat unit that can be switched between the two modes as your child develops.
Many pushchairs and prams are designed to fold down to a smaller size when not in use, which makes them easier to store and transport in your car’s boot or public transport. It’s worth checking the size of the pushchairs when folded as this could be a big difference when you need to fit them into tight spaces or up and down stairs.
If you plan to take your pram or stroller into areas with rougher terrain, like fields or parks, or even on the beach, it is ideal to select an option with off-road wheels. They are more suitable to these types of environments. Check that the wheels are air-filled since this will allow them to easily move over rough terrain and will not puncture.
A sunshade or a parasol that can be attached directly to the frame of your pushchair will provide shade and guard your child from overheating on hot days. You can purchase them separately or as part of an accessory set for your pushchair, with several styles and colours to choose from.
Comfort
A great pushchair or pram is one that is comfortable for your baby and you to push. A softly padded seat liner, adjustable settings to allow your baby to lie flat or sway slightly (good for those with reflux) and a large sun canopy are all useful. Find a suspension that makes the ride smooth and a receptive brake system so you can stop quickly when needed.
It’s vital that your pushchair is capable of accommodating this position for the first couple of weeks. Many frames include an infant carrycot that can convert into a reclining seat when your child is old enough. This allows you to combine a stroller and pram within the same frame.
You’ll also have to think about your needs when choosing a pram, such as whether it’s easy to maneuver and what type of storage space you require. It’s worth visiting a shop where you can test drive different pushchairs or prams to test how they feel and fold. It’s also recommended to look over any accessories you’d like for your baby, like an armband, a seat liner and fans that help your baby stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
In the end, you’ll need to think about the overall look of your pushchair – will it suit your lifestyle and style? You will be using your pushchair for several years, so make sure you pick a colour or print that you will be happy with.
A light pushchair that is puncture-proof tyres that are big and bouncy, suspension, and a hood can be pulled down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs. It offers the perfect balance of comfort for both your child and you. It has a sophisticated and elegant brushed twill that has a faux leather handle and leatherette trims. It has a classic style but is also modern and contemporary. It’s also very affordable priced and comes with a variety of useful accessories.
Practicality
The terms pram, pushchair buggy, pram and travel system get thrown around a lot but it’s important to select one that suits your needs and your lifestyle. Find models that fold down to smaller sizes because this can be helpful when you’re taking it on public transport, in your car’s boot or storage space at home. If you choose to purchase an infant stroller or a travel system that has a separate baby seat then make sure that it snaps securely onto the chassis and is able to be removed without disturbing your baby (especially in the case of sleep).
A lot of prams have an ample storage basket beneath which helps keep your bags, shopping and nappies within reach. They also typically have swivel wheels which allow them to maneuver and steer in narrow shop aisles, or to turn on the spot in busy areas such as beaches and parks. If you’re going to use it in the countryside, you might want a model with wide all-terrain tires that can handle rough terrain and muddy paths.
A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a pram, and offers the convenience of the ability to have a seat that is adjusted to multiple positions which is perfect for newborns or babies who can sit up. A large canopy can shield your toddler or baby from the sun. Some models are also suitable for rain.
Think about how heavy the model is and whether you are able to lift it out and in of your car’s storage area or up the stairs to your home (with or without your child inside!) Particularly as they become heavier with time. It might be worth paying more to get a washable cover that makes cleaning up spillages or leaks from nappy nappy easy. It’s an excellent idea to try out any prams or pushchairs you’re contemplating buying, to be able to observe how they feel and behave and how easy they fold and carry. It is also a good idea to see whether the handlebars are comfortable to you.
Cleaning
Cleaning your pushchair regularly will reduce the risk of mould or mildew. It is crucial to wipe down all fabric components as soon they become dirty and give them an extensive wash every two weeks. Utilizing a deodoriser or a fabric freshener regularly can help keep odors at bay and help prevent the accumulation of grime that can lead to the development of mould spores as well as an unhygienic environment for your baby.
Before you start to clean your pushchair It’s recommended to remove any toys, and to take off any padding or covers that you can remove. This will make it easier to clean and access those difficult to reach places like the canopy, hood or support for the seat. Next, choose an area with good ventilation to work in and lay down sheets or tarps to protect the floor and make cleaning as simple as it can be. Use a vacuum with a flexible nozzle to remove any food particles or dirt that may have gotten caught in the crevices and corners.
If you own a pushchair with removable fabric sections, start by reading the manufacturer’s care instructions and washing them as recommended (either in the washing machine or by hand). Otherwise, it is generally safe to make use of a warm solution of water and mild soap (or mild detergent) on all fabrics used in pushchairs. It is recommended to test the fabric’s colourfastness on only a small area prior to using any cleaning product. Certain chemicals may harm or bleach delicate fabrics.
Add a small amount to the wash to eliminate stubborn marks and stains. This is a powerful stain remover that can eliminate all kinds of odours, such as ones caused by urine or milk. It will also help to lift any soap residues or Pushchairs detergent. After you’ve finished, wash the fabric thoroughly to remove any soap residue and hang it to dry. Do this outside, as sunlight is a natural fabric conditioner and disinfectant.