What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish pram that is both stylish and practical. It's simple to put together, can convert into a double and has a big storage basket.

This innovative travel system allows you to "future resistant" by incorporating a compatible car seat and carrycot. It folds easily by hand and can be freestanding when collapsed.

Seat

It's likely that your baby will be using the pram a lot and therefore it's crucial to ensure it's comfortable. Find models with comfortable cushioning for the seat, a handlebar that is adjustable in height, and recline feature to let you get your child asleep. Make sure that the pushchair features a 'parent-facing' (or rear facing)' or 'world-facing' setting if your child wants to see more of what's happening around them.

The Graco Near2Me features an interesting feature that allows parents to keep their baby close and maintain eye contact. This is a wonderful option for babies and infants and was praised by our parent facing pram tester Jaya as a great way to make your child feel loved and loved.

When selecting a pram you should think about the overall dimensions. You don't want to have be concerned about it taking up too much room in your home or car. Pick a model that is able to be folded up easily and is compact when collapsed to ensure it fits. You can find out how easy or difficult it is by reading reviews (like those on MadeForMums).

A quality pram should be able to fold flat when folded. This will ensure that your baby gets a fully supported lie down during the first six months, which is essential for their development. Make sure the pram you're looking at is able to do this and that it can be used with a car seat if needed.

Wheels

The wheels are what propel the pram and provide your child a comfortable ride. There are three common wheel types - rubber foam, and EVA (harder plastic type). Each has its pros and cons, based on what you intend to use your pushchair for.

Rubber wheels are the most popular and offer great grip on all surfaces. The only drawback is that they can be punctured if they are inflated too quickly by an auto tyre pump. However it is usually due to someone over inflating them and isn't a regular problem. This wheel type is often used on all-terrain buggies and running buggies.

PU or Polyurethane wheels are foam filled making them lighter than rubber tyres. They also don't offer the same shock absorbing ability and can sometimes feel more harsh on rough concrete surfaces. They are more prevalent on strollers than in prams, and are the cheapest option.

EVA or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate is a harder plastic material that is lighter and has some of the characteristics of rubber, but not as much. It can be used in lieu of rubber or PU for low maintenance and to reduce the weight of your pram.

A strong and reliable brake system on your stroller is an important feature and will safeguard you, your baby and other pedestrians. The majority of pushchairs have brake pedals that are located on 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 should be easy to operate and should lock immediately after you press them. Some pushchairs have a mid-wheel brake for added stability and control.

Carrycot

The carrycot is a simple-to-use portable cot that is able to be attached to the chassis of any pushchair. It's ideal for infants and babies from 6 months to 6 years of age, as they have to lie flat in order to develop their spine and lung capacity. A carrycot-equipped pram is the perfect choice for parents with a only a tiny boot or who use public transport frequently.

Some prams have a built-in carrying cot that can fold into the frame. This allows you to quickly change between the carriage and seat modes. This is a great choice for families with a tiny car boot or who need to take public transport often because it saves time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 has been highly rated by MFM home testers and has won Gold in our previous MadeForMums Awards. It's an excellent choice for new parents who are on a budget as it is affordable, yet is luxurious and looks. It's also strong and light when folded.

Mountain Buggy Twin Plus, a luxury pushchair for double or single use that can be used right from birth. a carrycot is the best choice. This stunning pushchair comes with a lay flat carrycot plus a fabric sling seat and an infant cocoon to create the ultimate sleeping solution that is safe and comfortable for twins.

It's also a soft, nippy and light-steering rider, which is perfect for urban areas. You can easily navigate busy roads and pavements while on the move. It's also very easy to use and comes with a variety of accessories, such as rain cover, a footmuff and hood.

Canopy

A canopy for prams will shield your child from the elements and provide a comfortable place for them to rest. It also helps prevent sunburns and heatstroke by blocking the harsh rays of the sun. Some models feature an open or mesh back section that can be unzipped to keep an eye on the snoozer's tiny eyes.

In winter, a hood can be a great way to protect your baby's delicate skin from wind and rain. Some models include rain covers that can be easily popped over the pram's canopy and secured by poppers. You can also purchase a separate umbrella which attaches to the pram with magnets and is simple to remove when not in use.

Whichever model you choose, pram or pushchair, choosing the right model is a huge choice that you will use regularly for years to come. As your baby grows and develops you'll want to make sure they are safe and comfortable on every journey. A quality pushchair or pram is one that can provide a gentle spine support and prevent them from getting tired when they take long rides or long walks.

It's worth noting that pushchairs tend to be more geared towards babies and infants, as they often include a bassinet or carrycot to enable you to lie them flat, whereas pushchairs are more versatile and can convert into an infant seat as your child gets older. Our expert team is happy to assist you if you aren't sure which pram or pushchair is suitable for your needs. Contact us or visit our store.

Storage

There are many options for storage options for prams dependent on your budget as well as the space available. A shed is an excellent option if you have the space, since it will protect the pram from weather damage and keep it away from the path when not in use. This is a great option in areas that experience frequent rain or snow.

A shed is typically constructed out of metal or wood and comes with doors that allow for easy access. It could also come with a lock and other security features. Another popular option is a garage, which will protect you from elements and be close to your vehicle if that's the option you choose.

If you don't have a garage, you can keep the pram in your home's closet. This will keep it out of the way and will not require you to glance at it every time you go into your home or nursery. It might be difficult to reach if you are hosting guests.

To keep your pushchair in good condition you'll need to keep it clean. It will look good and free of stains and mildew. To clean a hood, start by vacuuming it with the small attachment or washing it in warm soapy water. Next you can clean any stains using a fabric brush or a gentle solution for sterilising. It's important to remember to dry the fabric completely outside to stop mould and mildew from spreading. You can also buy an item to clean up stubborn stains, making your pushchair look like new.