What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish stroller that is both stylish and practical. It is simple to put together and is able to be converted into a double. It also has an enormous storage basket.

This amazing travel system makes it easy to "future resistant" by incorporating an adaptable carrycot and car seat. Plus it folds neatly with one hand and can be freestanding when collapsed.

Seat

A pram is likely to be among the most used items of baby equipment you purchase therefore it's essential to ensure it is comfortable for your little one. Look for models that have adjustable handlebars, comfortable seat padding and a reclining function so you can lay your child down. 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 would like to look around and see what's going on around them.

The Graco Near2Me features a neat feature that allows parents to keep their child close and maintain eye contact. Jaya one of our testers, a parent said this is an excellent option for newborns and infants.

It is important to think about the overall size of the pram when selecting, as you don't want it to take up too much space in your car trunk or your living space. Select a model that can be folded easily and is compact when folded to ensure it can fit. You can find out whether it is easy or difficult is by reading reviews (like those on MadeForMums).

A quality pram should be able lay flat when folded, ensuring that your baby has a fully supported lie down for their first six months, which is crucial for their development. Be sure that the pram you're considering can do this, and that it can be used with a car seat in the event that it is required.

Wheels

The wheels of a pushchair are what allow it to move and what give your child the mobility they require. There are three standard wheel types: rubber, foam and EVA (a harder plastic type). Each has pros and cons based on what you plan to use your pushchair for.

Rubber wheels are the most commonly used and provide great grip on all surfaces. They can be punctured using a compressor for car tyres to blow them up too hard. This is not a frequent problem, and is usually caused by over-inflating the wheel. This type of wheel is commonly used on buggies that run all-terrain.

PU or Polyurethane wheels are filled with foam so they are lighter than rubber tyres. They don't have the same shock absorption capabilities, and can feel harsher on rough concrete surfaces. They are more prevalent on strollers than in prams and are the most affordable option.

EVA, or Ethylene vinyl acetate, is a plastic material that shares some of the characteristics of rubber and is also lighter. It can be used to replace PU or rubber in your pram due to its low maintenance and weight reduction.

It is important to have reliable brakes in your pushchair. This will protect you your child, as well as other pedestrians. The majority of pushchairs pushchairs have brake pedals on the rear of the chassis. It is activated by pressing a lever, or button on the handlebars, or by pressing down with your foot. The brakes should be simple to use and should be locked immediately after pressing them. Some pushchairs also feature a mid-wheel brake for added stability and control.

Carrycot

The carrycot is a lightweight portable cot that attaches to the frame of a pushchair. It's ideal for newborns and babies up to six months of age, as they must lie flat to develop their spine and lungs. A pram with carrycot is the perfect choice for parents who have little space, a small boot, or who travel by public transport often.

Some prams have a built-in carrycot that folds into the frame of the pushchair, so you can easily swap between carriage and seat mode. This is a great choice for families with an insufficient car boot or who use public transport frequently. It can help you save time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 is an example of this and has scored well with MFM home testers, as well as winning Gold in our previous MadeForMums awards. It's a great choice for new parents on a budget as it's affordable and is luxurious and looks. It's also sturdy and lightweight. It's also compact when folded.

If you're looking for a luxury single-to-double pushchair that is suitable from birth and can be used with a carrycot, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the perfect choice. This stunning pram includes a lay flat carrycot plus an sling seat made of fabric and an infant cocoon to create the ultimate sleeping solution that is secure and comfortable for your twins.

It's also a light, light-steering and smooth rider that is ideal for urban environments and allows you to easily negotiate the busy roads and pavements on the go. It's also very easy to use and comes with a variety of accessories, including rain covers, a footmuff and hood.

Canopy

A canopy for your pram will protect your child from the elements and provide a comfortable place for them to sleep. It also helps prevent sunburn and heat stroke by blocking the harsh sun's rays. Some models feature the option of a peekaboo window or a back mesh section so that you can observe your little snoozer without disturbing them.

In winter, a hood is a great way to protect your baby's delicate skin from the elements and rain. Some models include rain covers that can be easily popped over the pram's canopy and secured with poppers. You can also purchase a separate umbrella that attaches with magnets to the pram and is easy-to-fold away when not being used.

Whether you opt for a pushchair or pram, picking the right model is a huge decision and one that you will be using frequently for many years to come. As your baby grows and develops you'll want to make sure they are safe and comfortable throughout every journey. A high-quality pram or pushchair is one that can support their gentle spine and keep them from getting tired during long rides or long walks.

It's worth noting that pushchairs tend to be more targeted towards infants and newborns in that they usually include a bassinet or carrycot to enable you to lay them flat, while pushchairs tend to be more flexible and can convert to an infant seat as your child gets older. Our knowledgeable team is available to assist you if you aren't sure which pram or pushchair is suitable for your requirements. Contact us or visit our store.

Stores

There are a variety of options for pram storage, dependent on your budget and the space available. If you have the space sheds are a great option to protect your pram from damage caused by the elements and keep it out of the way when not in use. This is a great option in areas that experience often snow or rain.

A shed is usually constructed of wood or metal, and is equipped with a door that permits easy access. It may also come with locks or other security features. Another popular option is a garage, which will shield you from the elements and also be near your vehicle if this is what you want to use it for.

If you don't have a garage, or shed, you can keep your pram in a closet inside your home. It will be out of the way and won't be visible when you enter the house or the nursery. However, it might be difficult to access if you have guests in your home.

To keep your pushchair clean it's best to keep it clean. This will ensure it is clean and free of mildew and stains. To clean a hood, begin by vacuuming it using a small attachment or rinsing it with cool soapy water. You can then use a mild sterilising agent or a fabric brush to remove any stains. It's important to remember to dry the fabric thoroughly outdoors to stop mould and mildew from spreading. You can also buy an item that can help remove the most stubborn stains and leave your stroller looking like new again.