What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams can be confusing. Prams have a flat seat that is specifically designed to be used by babies and newborns.

Some prams include an infant bassinet or carrycot that is suitable for infants. Some even have the option of being converted into a pushchair for older babies.

If you are planning to use public transport or need to fold your pushchair frequently, opt for a lightweight and compact stroller.

Comfort

Your pushchair will probably be utilized more often than your bottles and nappies. It is essential to select one that is full of padding, a comfortable seat and can be adjusted to the height.

Many buggies, prams and pushchairs include a fitted blanket to keep your child warm. They can be popped into the washing machine and are available in a variety of designs and colours to match your preference.

A pram is specifically designed for infants up to approximately six months old when they're still at the stage that they must lay flat, usually with a carrycot or bassinet attached to the frame. The majority of prams have the option of 'parent facing or 'world facing.' This allows the user to decide whether they want your baby pram to face you in order to bond with you, or to explore the sights and sounds in their surroundings. Some prams can be converted into a pushchair, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a premium single-to-double pram pushchair pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).

It is vital to remember that infants less than six months old shouldn't be carried in a pushchair that isn't able to recline completely flat. This is because being in a crouching position could affect their breathing as it causes them to breathe more air than normal and could lead to breathing problems in the long time.

A pushchair is a vehicle on wheels that folds, typically to a compact size, and is generally designed towards older babies and toddlers until approximately three years old. They're often made from an extra durable material than a pram and you can usually find models that let you switch the direction of the seat so that your child can either face towards you for reassurance or away from you so they can explore the world around them.

Safety

The safety of your child in a pushchair or pram is vital. You should only ever place your child in a pushchair or pram specifically designed to fit their age and size. This will make them feel safe and secure, and will prevent accidents. If you're purchasing a pushchair or pram second-hand it's essential to carry out visual safety checks. This will ensure that the item is in good working order and isn't damaged in any way that could be dangerous for your child.

When selecting a pushchair or pram, choose one that has a safety harness with simple and fast clips. Make sure the buckles are not loose and that the straps fit comfortably around your child's waist. Also look for a wide base, as this will provide greater stability than models with narrow bases.

Avoid overloading your pushchair or pram with items. This can cause it to tip and your baby could be thrown out. Also, don't put anything in the basket that could fall out and harm your baby. This includes toys, drinks and snacks.

Make sure you follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean your pram or pushchair. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, be sure to dry it outside thoroughly. This will stop the growth of mould or mildew.

If your pram or pushchair has a removable footmuff, it's best prams to wash it before using it again in winter. This can be accomplished by taking off the fabric and washing it in cool water using soap and letting it dry outside. You should also scrub any dirt or mud from the wheels and axles.

Experts suggest that babies sit flat in a stroller or pram as early as possible. This will aid in their development and lessen back pain later in life.

Retailers and manufacturers are required to fulfill a duty under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to supply products that are safe in regular or reasonably foreseeable usage. This is the case for new prams and pushchairs as well as second-hand ones.

Style

While some parents are seeking the most efficient set of wheels that they have access to, many want a pram or pushchair that is as stylish as their new bundle of joy. There are numerous high-end prams and pushchairs that combine high-end engineering with stylish designs that are both eye-catching and practical.

The first thing you should consider when selecting a pushchair or pram is the seat padding and adjustability options. Babies are messy and so having a pushchair that is easy to clean is essential. This is especially important when you intend to make use of your pushchair for long walks through rough terrain or over gravel, dirt and cobbles. Choose a stroller with removable recline and seat covers that can be washed by machine. Check that the fabric can be washed by machine to keep your baby dry and comfortable.

Another thing to consider is the direction your baby is facing in their pushchair. Most pushchairs "from birth" allow you to change the seat from parent facing (facing towards the parent to provide reassurance and bonding) or facing the world to allow your child to explore the world around them. Some prams have this option, but it may not be required for all models.

Combination prams pushchairs, also called 3-in-1 prams, are an increasingly popular choice for families as they can accommodate the bassinet basket as well as an incline seat on the same frame. They are designed to be used from birth, and are suitable for children up to six-months old.

A travel pram system is similar to a combination stroller in that it allows you to connect car seats to the frame, with adaptors. They are an excellent choice for toddlers and infants until three years old and are more affordable than buying separate items.

Twin prams or pushchairs are excellent option for twins or siblings of the same age who both require transport in a safe and comfortable manner. They are available in a variety of styles and can be fitted either with one car seat or a double.

Stores

In addition to providing security and comfort for your little one, a pram or pushchair needs to offer plenty of storage space for the most essential items. Look for models that have an ample shopping basket that can store all your baby supplies including spare clothing and changing equipment, bottles of water and snacks. Some also include a parent or child's compartment which is ideal for storing all your personal things. If you're looking for a pram with even more storage consider a convertible pushchair that comes with multiple configurations. Having extra space is especially important if you're planning to take your baby on long walks or trips away from home and require storage space for everything you might need.

Another key feature to consider is maneuverability. Opt for swivel wheels to effortlessly navigate narrow spaces and also look for locking brakes that are able to stop quickly. If you're looking at a lighter model, ensure it has the correct dimensions for suspension and folding for easy transport and storage. Alternatively, if you want something more robust for off-roading, pick one with sturdy all-terrain wheels that are able to handle rougher terrains better than pavements.

A pram is a vehicle that provides a flat sleeping position for infants. A pushchair is more designed for older babies and toddlers who can stand up on their own. Some prams are able to be converted into a pushchair simply 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 be converted into an automobile seat or a carrycot.

Whichever type of pram or pushchair you choose, be sure to read reviews on the internet and ask for recommendations from friends and family. Test-drive several options before you make your decision. This will give you an idea of their weight, their folding capabilities and how they feel. You may also want consider whether a convertible model is the best option for you, because these can be used interchangeably between one or two babies, and you can save money on purchasing a new set of wheels every time your baby gets older!