What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair
A stylish and elegant pram that is both fashionable and practical. It’s easy to put together, can convert into a double and features an enormous storage basket.
This innovative travel system allows you to “future proof” by incorporating a compatible car seat and carrycot. Plus it folds neatly by hand and is free-standing when collapsed.
Seat
A pram is likely to be among the most frequently used pieces of baby equipment that you purchase therefore it’s essential to ensure it is comfortable for your little one. Look for models that have adjustable handlebars, a comfortable seat padding, and a recline function so that you can easily lay your child to sleep. It’s also worth checking that the pushchair is set to be ‘parent facing’ (or rear-facing) or “world facing” in case your child is older and wants to observe what’s going on around them.
The Graco Near2Me has an innovative feature that allows parents to keep their child close and keep eye contact. This is a fantastic option for newborns and babies and was praised by our parent tester Jaya as being a lovely method to make your child feel loved and loved.
When choosing a pram you should think about the overall size. You don’t want to to worry about it taking up too much space in your home or car. Select a model that can be folded up easily and compact when folded to ensure it can fit. Consider how easy to fold and then read reviews (like those on MadeForMums) for a real idea of how easy or difficult it is to maneuver fold and store.
A good quality pram should be able fold flat when folded. This will ensure that your baby is able to have a fully supported lie down throughout the first six months, which is vital for their development. Check that the pram that you are thinking about buying is able to do this, and that it can be used with a car seat if necessary.
Wheels
The wheels are what propel the pram and provide your child a safe ride. There are three common wheel types – rubber, foam and EVA (harder plastic type). Each has its pros and cons depending on what you intend to use your pushchair.
Rubber wheels are the most common and offer excellent grip on all surfaces. The only down side is that they may be punctured if inflated too hard by a car tyre pump. This is not a frequent problem and is usually caused by who has inflated the wheels too much. This type of wheel is commonly used on all-terrain buggies and running buggies.
PU or Polyurethane Wheels are filled with foam, making them lighter than rubber tires. They don’t have the same shock-absorbing capability and can feel more harsh on rough concrete surfaces. They are more common on prams and strollers than on strollers and are the least expensive option.
EVA or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate is a tougher plastic that is lightweight and has some of the properties of rubber but not as much. It can be used to replace rubber or PU in your pram due to its low maintenance and weight reduction.
Having strong reliable brakes on your stroller is a crucial feature that can protect your baby, you and pedestrians. The majority of pushchairs have brake pedals located at the rear of the chassis. It can be activated by pressing a lever or button on the handlebars, or by pressing down with your foot. The brakes must be simple to operate and should be locked immediately after you press them. Some pushchairs have brakes on the middle wheel to provide extra stability and control.
Carrycot
The carrycot is a user-friendly portable cot that can be affixed to the chassis of any pushchair. It is ideal for newborns and babies between six and six months old. age, as they must lie flat in order to develop their spine and lungs. A carrycot-style pram is an excellent option for parents who are limited in space, have a small car boot or use public transport a lot.
Some prams come with an integrated carrycot that folds away into the frame of the pushchair, so it is easy to switch between carriage and seat modes. This is an excellent option for families with a small car boot or who have to travel by public transport often since it will save time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 is an example of this and has a high score with MFM home testers, as well as winning Gold in our previous MadeForMums awards. It’s also a great option for parents who are on a budget as it’s reasonably priced, yet has a premium look and feel, as well as being sturdy, lightweight and compact when folded.
Mountain Buggy twin pushchairs Plus, the ultimate pushchair that can be used for both single and double use that can be used from birth with an infant carrycot is the ideal choice. The pram comes with lay-flat carrycots, fabric sling seats and an infant cooon to offer the ideal sleeping solution for twins.
It’s also a smooth light-steering, nippy rider, which is perfect for urban environments. You can easily navigate busy roads and pavements on the move. It’s also extremely easy to use and comes with a wide range of accessories, such as rain cover, a footmuff and the hood.
Canopy
A canopy for prams will shield your child from the elements while providing a comfortable place for them to sleep. It also helps prevent sunburns and heat stroke by blocking the harsh rays from the sun. Some models offer the option of a peekaboo window or the back mesh to monitor pram pushchair your little snoozer without disturbing them.
A hood is especially useful in winter too, allowing you to shield your baby’s sensitive skin from cold wind and rain. Some models come with rain covers that can be easily popped over the pram’s canopy, and secured by poppers. Alternatively, you can purchase a separate umbrella which attaches to the pram with magnets and is easy to remove when not in use.
Your pram or pushchair for a number of years to come, so picking the best one is a critical decision. As your baby grows and develops, you’ll want to ensure that they are secure and comfortable on every journey. A quality pushchair or pram is one that can support their gentle spine and prevent them from becoming tired on long rides or walks.
Pushchairs can be transformed into a seat once your baby gets older. They are more versatile than prams. If you’re unable to decide which pram or pushchair is best for your needs, our experienced team are happy to help – give us a call or visit our store.
Stores
There are many options for storage for prams, based on your budget and the space you have available. If you have space sheds are the ideal option to shield your pram from damage caused by the elements and keep it out the way when it is not being used. This is a great option for areas that are prone to frequent snow or rain.
A shed is typically made of metal or wood, and is equipped with a door that permits easy access. It could also be equipped with a lock or other security features. Garages are a popular option, since it provides protection from the elements and be close to your vehicle if you’re using it for transport.
If you do not have garage space, you could put the pram away in the closet of your home. This will keep it away from view, so you don’t have to see it when you enter your house or nursery. However, it may be difficult to access if have guests in your home.
To maintain your pushchair it’s best to clean it frequently. This will ensure that it looks great and is free from stains and mildew. Start by vacuuming the hood using an attachment small in size or washing it in cool, soapy water. Next you can tackle any stains using a fabric brush or a gentle solution for sterilising. Be sure to dry the fabric on the outside to stop mould and mildew from spreading. You can also purchase an item that can help remove the most stubborn stains and make your pushchair look like new.