What to Look For in Pushchairs

A pushchair is a secure mode of transport for your child. They are also comfortable and offer an easy ride.

You can consider purchasing a parasol for your child to protect them from the sun. Most pushchairs include one however, many manufacturers offer them as an accessory.

Consider a pushchair that can be transformed into a double if you are planning to have another child. Some travel pushchair systems include a carry cot or seat unit.

Safety

It is essential that your pushchair is safe as it's the baby's place of residence when on the road. All prams, strollers and buggies must be compliant with British standard BS7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003. This certification must be displayed on the product information of a reputable brand.

A five-point harness is essential to ensure your baby's safety. It should fit securely over their shoulders and around their waists, as well as between their legs. Verify that the buckles are simple to clip together and undo and that the straps have firm connections.

You should also check that the brake on your pushchair is easily accessible and functions as intended. It's also worthwhile to invest in a reflective strip for your pushchair to aid other road users to see your child and you during the winter's dark and gloomy days.

If your pushchair was designed to accommodate two children, ensure that it has a single footrest that runs across the length of both seats. This will stop children from getting their feet caught between the two footrests and slipping out of the pushchair.

All pushchairs, prams, and buggys should have a maximum weight limit. This limit is crucial to know before you use the pushchair. A child who is overweight could cause the device to be unstable.

A good pushchair should be able to stand up to being pushed across a wide range of surfaces, so make sure you choose a model with large, solid wheels. The tyres should be made of durable materials that resist puncturing and have good traction to help you continue on slippery roads. Some pushchairs are made to be used off-road and have a special suspension for an even more comfortable ride.

Comfort

It is essential to choose a pushchair that is comfortable for your baby. It could be as easy as making sure it has plenty of padding to ensure they're comfortable and safe, or a footmuff to keep them warm and cozy in the colder months. Many pushchairs also have the option of reversible seats, which allow you to decide whether to face your baby to bond and comforting or away from them so they can explore the world around them.

It's a good idea for new parents to search for a pushchair that has an adjustable seat that can be positioned flat. Experts recommend that newborns sleep in a flat position during the first few months in order to help in the development of their lungs and breathing. Many pushchairs claim to be able to recline completely, but it is important to confirm whether the seat offers the lie-flat position and is safe for infants.

Some pushchairs are light and easy to get in and out of the car and fit through narrow doorways. Some pushchairs can also fit in overhead luggage racks of planes and trains. These types of pushchairs often have a quick and simple fold mechanism that lets you collapse the frame with just one hand. They can also be used to accommodate a carrycot and infant car seat making them suitable for use starting from the time of birth.

Other pushchairs, such as the Silver Cross Adorra2, offer an upscale and luxurious experience with an elegant design that is sure to turn heads. They can also be fitted with a variety of accessories for your baby including car seat covers and rain covers. They are designed to be adaptable enough to cope with real family life. They come with an easy and quick to adjust five point safety harness, as well as large puncture-proof wheels.

Style

It is likely that you will use your pushchair most often, therefore, you must choose a model that you and your child love. It's worth taking the time to consider the finer things like the comfort of the seat cushion is and if the handlebar comes with an adjustable height. There are plenty of other little extras that make an impact, like an extra storage basket or front wheel lock.

A pram is designed for two children to be carried at the same time, usually a toddler along with the baby. It's smaller than a pushchair and is easier to maneuver in tight spaces, or on public transport. It could be a single-seater, in which the child sits behind the parent, or a tandem which has one child seated behind the other.

Both prams and pushchairs can be used from birth however, they are mostly designed for older babies because they are more spacious than buggies and have an adjustable seat that can be positioned to face toward or away from you. Most of the time, they can are able to include an infant car seat or carry cot so that it's a traveling system that can be used until your child becomes a toddler, making it an excellent value for money.

Some pushchairs have a single brake pedal, while others have a foot brake and hand brake that work together to stop your pushchair in a safe and controlled way. The foot pedal is generally located on the back axle of the pushchair while the hand brake is placed at the top of the frame, next to the rear wheels. The foot brake is perfect for parents who are on steep hills or in the countryside as it stops them from losing control of their pushchair.

Size

There are many different sizes of pushchairs. Some pushchairs are able to be used as early as birth, as they come with a lie-flat seat and an attachment to a bassinet or carrycot. Some are able to be used from the moment a child is able sit up without assistance and is typically around 6 months. They can have the seat facing either towards parents for bonding and reassurance or away from them in order for them to discover their surroundings.

The size of the wheel is important. Some have larger wheels to allow to allow for better maneuverability on rougher surfaces. Some have smaller wheels that make a lighter frame and are easier push over paved surfaces.

Some pushchairs come with one brake pedal which locks both rear wheels. This is useful in the event that you need to stop for a coffee break or go shopping. Some models have two brake pedals that help control and safety. It is vital that your pushchair has excellent braking as it is going to be used on rough terrains so make sure you check the brakes regularly.

There are a variety of options to aid you in choosing the perfect pushchair for your family and baby. Features that are easy to use, such as a compact fold that can be accomplished using just one hand, safety harnesses that are easy to adjust, or adjustable handlebars will make life easier for parents of toddlers and infants.

Choosing the right pushchair is an investment in the comfort and safety of your baby or toddler. It's also likely to be the baby product you'll be using for the longest period of time, so it's worth taking the time to think about which features are important to you and your family.

A pushchair to buy

Think carefully about the features you'd like to see in your pushchair. It will be with you and your baby for a long time So you must pick wisely. Consider how it will fit into your lifestyle. A stroller that is all-terrain is great for country walks, but not so good on a shiny store floor. If you plan to use it with your grandparents, you might need something that is simple for them to control and steer without feeling like they require a PhD.

Newborn babies need to lie-flat, so you'll need a pushchair with a carrycot or infant car seat (travel system) or a reclining seat that can be used from birth. Some models have the option of reversing, so you can have your baby facing you or the world as they get older.

When choosing a pushchair you might want to look at accessories like shopping trays and baskets or pram changing bags that can make it easier to complete errands with your child in your arms. Some pushchairs come with hoods that provide extra sun protection and others come with rain covers that will ensure your baby stays dry when it begins to drizzle.

Some pushchairs are convertible so can be used as a double or single and can grow with your family by adding an additional seat unit or carrycot. This is a good choice when you're thinking on having another child shortly after baby number one or if you're not sure what your goals are for the coming years just yet.