What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams are designed to carry infants and babies. They come with a lie-flat seating.

Prams are also available with a carrycot or bassinet for infants. Some even have the option of changing it into an infant pushchair.

If you're planning to take public transportation or fold your pushchair frequently, choose a lightweight and compact pushchair.

Comfort

Your pushchair is likely to get used more than your nappies and bottles. It is essential to select one that has plenty of padding and a comfortable seating position that can be adjusted to the height.

It's also worth noting that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a fitted pram blanket that helps to keep your child warm. These can be easily popped into the wash and are available in a range of colors and designs to match your preference.

A pram is designed for infants from 6 months to 6 years of age, when they are still at the stage that they must lay flat. Most often, a carrycot, or bassinet, will be attached to the frame. Many prams allow the choice of either 'parent' facing or 'world facing. This enables you to decide if you prefer your child to face you to bond with you, or to explore the sights and sounds in their environment. Some prams can be converted into a pushchair, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a deluxe single to double pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).

The most important thing to be aware of is that babies who are very young should not be in any pushchair that is not able to recline to a completely flat position. Traveling in a crouching position can affect their breathing as they breathe in more air than normal. This can lead to respiratory issues in the long term.

A pushchair is a chair on wheels that folds, usually to a very compact size and it's generally geared toward toddlers and older infants that are around three years old. They're typically made of a more durable material compared to prams. You can also find models where you can change the direction that the seat faces to allow your child to be reassured by you or away from you to explore the world.

Safety

It is important to ensure that your baby is secure in a pushchair or pram. Make sure that you place your child in a pushchair or pram that is made to his size and age. This will ensure that they feel secure and safe, and also prevent accidents. If you're buying a baby pushchair or pram that you've found second-hand it's essential to conduct visual safety inspections. This will ensure that the item is in good condition and not damaged in any way that could pose a risk to your baby.

When you are choosing the right pram or pushchair pick one that comes with an safety harness with simple and fast clips. Verify that the buckles aren't loose and that the straps fit comfortably around your child's waist. Find models with a larger base since they will be more stable than those with a narrow base.

Beware of overloading your pushchair and pram with items. This can cause it to tip over and your baby might fall out. Do not put anything that can harm your baby inside the basket, including drinks, snacks, or toys.

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

If your pushchair or pram has a removable footmuff it's best to wash it prior to using it again in winter. You can do this by taking off the fabric and washing it in soapy water, Push Chairs and Prams and then allowing it to air dry outdoors. It's also a good idea to brush any dirt or mud off of the wheels and axles.

Experts recommend that babies lay flat in a pushchair or pram as soon as possible. This will help them develop and decrease the risk of back problems as they age.

Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, retailers and manufacturers are required to supply products that are safe for normal or reliable use. This applies to new and second-hand prams as well as strollers.

Style

While some parents are looking for the most efficient set of wheels they can get their hands on, many want an infant cheap stroller or pushchair that's just as stylish as their brand new baby. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-end prams and pushchairs on the market that blend high-end engineering with fetching designs that are as striking as they are practical.

The first thing you should consider when choosing a pushchair pram is the padding and adjustability options. A pushchair that is simple to clean is essential for children, as they are often messy. This is especially true if you plan to use your pushchair for long walks through rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Choose a stroller with removable seats and recline mechanisms that can be washed by machine. Check that the fabric can be machine washed to keep your baby dry and comfortable.

Another thing to think about is the direction your baby is facing in their pushchair. Most 'from-birth' pushchairs allow you to change the seat to face either parent (facing the parent to calm 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 required for all models and may only be an optional extra.

Combination prams, also known as 3-in-1 prams, are a popular option for families since they can fit both 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 infants as young as six months old.

A travel system is an option to a combined pram, as it permits you to fit a car seat onto the frame, often using adaptors. They are ideal for infants and toddlers between birth and three years old. They can be less expensive than buying separate products.

Twin prams or pushchairs are ideal choice for twins or siblings of the same age who both require transport in comfort and safety. They come in a variety of styles and are fitted with a single or double car seat.

Storage

As well as offering safety and comfort to your child the pram or pushchair needs to offer plenty of storage for all the essentials. Find models with a spacious shopping basket that can hold all the baby items including spare clothing as well as changing gear as well as bottles of water and snacks. Some models come with a compartment for the parent or child that is ideal to keep your personal belongings. If you're looking for a pushchair with more storage space consider a convertible model that has various configurations. It's important to have extra space especially if you want to take your child for long walks or to be away from home.

Another key feature to consider is the ability to maneuver. Opt for swivel wheels to easily navigate narrow passageways and be sure to look for locking brakes that are able to stop quickly. If you are looking at a lightweight model, ensure that it has the appropriate suspension system and foldable dimensions to facilitate storage and transportation. Alternatively, if you want something more robust for off-roading, pick a model with robust all-terrain wheels that are able to be able to withstand rougher terrain than pavements.

The main distinction between a pram and pushchair is that a pram offers the option of a lying-flat sleep position for infants, whereas a pushchair is more suitable for older infants and toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some prams are convertible into pushchairs by taking out the bassinet, and replacing it with an adult seat. Other models, like the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle can convert into a carrycot, or car seat.

If you are unsure about which type of pushchair or pram to select look up online reviews and ask your friends and family for suggestions. Test-drive several options before you make your decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their fold and how they feel. You may also want consider whether a convertible model is the best option for you, as they can be used interchangeably between one or two children and save money on purchasing an entirely new set wheels every time your baby grows up!