Buying a Pushchair

A pushchair is likely to be the baby item you use the most frequently, so it is important to choose one that fits your lifestyle. This section of the Pushchair guide will help you make that choice.

Most prams feature a seat that is oriented towards the parent, pushchair makes however as your baby grows they will want to be able to see the world around them, so most pushchairs can be converted into a world-facing seat.

Safety

When purchasing a pushchair for your child or baby the safety features should be considered. A safety harness is vital to ensure your child's safety and safety in their pushchair, so check for a five-point safety harness that can be worn over the shoulders over the hips, around the waist and in between the legs.

Also, ensure whether the pram has two locking mechanisms to ensure that it is not accidentally folded whilst in use. Consider purchasing a cover for your pram that will provide extra comfort to the seat of your baby and protect it from spillages.

Always read the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer before using your stroller. Also, you should check frequently for signs of damage, such as sharp edges or tears which could cause injury. It's also an excellent idea to confirm that your buggy or pushchair has passed all relevant safety tests, and does not appear on any recall lists for products.

If you're pregnant, it might be worth asking a family member with children to let you test their pushchair before purchasing one. This will give you a better idea for how easy it is to manoeuvre, especially in the event that you're carrying shopping or luggage in addition to your child.

All pushchairs and prams should be identified with the name, trademark and identification of the UK manufacturer, distributor or retailer, as well as a British safety standard number and date, like BS7409: 1996. This is to ensure that your pram or buggy meets the proper standards for children and infants up to the age of six months.

For babies who are older than 3 months, it is recommended to choose a Pushchair Makes that is adjusted to a lying-flat position. This is important because a baby's neck muscles aren't yet strong enough to support their heads when they are in a seated position, and they should lie flat for as long as possible. Think about a travel system that includes a carrycot or a pushchair that has a backrest that reclines to a flat position.

Comfort

Pushchairs are one of the most used baby products. It is important that your child is comfortable during every trip. Choose a model that has lots of padding for the seat and a comfy, adjustable handlebar for parents. Some pushchairs also have a one-hand folding mechanism for ease of use, and features for ergonomic support to help prevent neck and back pain.

There are plenty of different options for travel with your baby and you'll have to consider the features that are most important for your lifestyle. If you plan on traveling often, you should consider a light stroller that folds into a compact size and put in the trunk or the boot of your car. A pushchair with an hood and raincover can make travel in rainy weather much easier.

It is possible to opt for a pram with a reversible seat so that your baby can be seated on your lap in the early stages and then change sides when they're older and wish to explore the world. Many prams come with a car seat adapter so that you can take your baby out in their own car seat, too.

If you decide to purchase a travel system, check that everything you need is included in the price. Some pushchairs from birth offer the seat and chassis separately, which may be more expensive than the complete set. Additional accessories like a hood or rainsheet will cost you extra.

The pushchair should be easy to move around. Some models come with locking front wheels that increase stability and others have wheels that swivel to increase agility. You should also consider how easy it is to move the pushchair up and down, and to maneuver it through tight spaces or over a curb.

A pushchair that is easy to manage will make it easier to navigate busy streets and shopping malls. Look for an easy-to-use steering system as well as a comfortable, cushioned handlebar so you can use your hands freely when pushing. A pushchair that is easy to use will be loved by you and your baby even if you're juggling two!

Style

A pushchair could be the most expensive baby purchase you'll ever purchase therefore it's worth your time to find a design you love. It's also a good idea to consider where you will be using the pushchair and whether it's suitable for your lifestyle. If you are a fan of the outdoors, you might want to select a stroller that has suspension so that it can handle uneven or rocky terrain. If you intend to take it on beach trips then you might want a pushchair with a waterproof hood.

Another thing to consider is how simple the product will be to operate. Choose a pushchair that has simple features that make your life simpler, like a one-hand compact fold and easily adjustable safety harnesses. Think about the weight of the stroller and how easy it is to lift. Also, you must consider how manoeuvrable the pushchair is and whether it will fit through doors or other narrow spaces.

If you are not sure which kind of pushchair should buy, you can look up reviews or ask family and friends for advice. It's recommended prior to making a final decision to test a variety of models, especially if have relatives with young children.

Take note of the age and development stage of your child's age and developmental stage. They'll grow quickly and require a comfortable travel during their early years. You should also check whether the pushchair is equipped with the option of lying flat. Research has shown that babies who do not lying down position could have breathing problems.

A pram is a suitable option for infants or babies who require a flat surface. They typically include a carry cot or bassinet which can be attached to the frame and used from the time of birth. Many prams can also be converted into an infant pushchair and generally have more features than strollers, including a two-way seat, which can be towards the parents or forward. They are generally more durable and sturdier than strollers, as the manufacturer has thought of long-term usage.

Storage

A pushchair usually has room under the seat to store items like spare clothes, coats, changing gear, bottles of water and snacks. A hood may be included to shield your child from the sun and rain. You can regularly clean your pushchair by vacuuming it, taking it off and washing the fabric with soapy water and leaving it to dry outside. If mould or mildew develops it is possible to use a gentle sterilising fluid.

A pushchair is a form of stroller designed for babies and toddlers who are able to sit up without assistance. It is easy to transport and store because it folds up into a frame.