Buying a Pushchair

A pushchair is probably the baby product you use most often so it is important to select one that is suitable for your lifestyle. This section of the Pushchair Guide will help you make the right choice.

Most prams have a seat facing towards the parent but as your baby grows they will want to explore the world around them, so most pushchairs can be converted to a world facing seat.

Safety

When buying a pushchair for your baby or child the safety features should be taken into consideration. To ensure your child's safety and comfort in their pushchair, a safe harness is crucial. Look for a five point harness that fits around hips, shoulders and between the legs.

Also, make sure whether the pram has two locking devices to ensure it can't be accidentally folded whilst in use. Also, consider buying a pram blanket, which provides extra comfort to the baby's seat and also shields it from crumbs and spills.

You should always read the manufacturer's instructions before using your pushchair. You should also look for any indications of damage, such as sharp edges or tears in fabric that could cause injury or strangulation. It's also an excellent idea to confirm that your buggy or pushchair has passed all safety tests, and that it does not appear on any recall lists of products.

Ask a friend who has a baby if you can test their pushchair for the first time. You will get an idea of how easy the pushchair is to move around, especially in the case that your child and luggage will be inside it.

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

For babies older than three months, you should select an infant stroller that can be adjusted to a lying-flat position. It is important to ensure that your baby is lying flat as long as they are able to. Their neck muscles aren't strong enough to support the head in a seated posture. Think about a travel system that includes a carrycot or a pushchair with a backrest that reclines to a flat position.

Comfort

A pushchair is one of the most frequently used baby products, and it's important that your little one is at ease on each trip. Choose a model that has plenty of seat padding and a comfortable, movable handlebar for parents. Some pushchairs come with an easy-to-fold mechanism that can be folded with one hand for ease of use, and ergonomic features to help prevent neck and back pain.

There are plenty of different options for travel with your baby, so you'll need to think about the features that are most important for your lifestyle. If you plan to travel often, look for a lightweight pushchair that is easily folded into a compact size and fits into boots or the trunk of the car. When traveling in rainy weather, it's much more convenient by using a pushchair with a raincover or hood.

You might want to go for a pram with a reversible seat, so your baby can sit on your lap in the early stages and then move to the other side when they're older and want to look around the world around them. A lot of prams come with a car seat adapter, so you can also take your baby in their car seat.

If you decide to purchase a travel system, make sure that everything you require is included in the price. Some pushchairs offer the chassis and seat separately, which may work out more expensive than the complete set. Additional accessories like rainsheets and hoods can cost more.

The pushchair must be easy to maneuver. Some models come with wheels that lock for added stability, while other models have an swivel wheel to increase agility. You should also think about how easy it is to lift the pushchair and move it around tight areas or over a curb.

A pushchair you can easily handle will help you navigate busy streets and shopping malls. Find a smooth steering mechanism and a comfortable, padded handlebar that allows you to remain hands free when pushing. A pushchair that is simple to use will be cherished by you and your baby even if you're juggling two!

Style

A pushchair is likely to be the most expensive baby item you'll ever purchase It's worth taking the time to find a design you like. It's important to think about the place you'll use the pushchair, and if it's suitable for your lifestyle. For instance, if you prefer to be outdoors, you might need a pushchair that has suspension to deal with uneven or difficult terrain. If you are planning to use it for beach trips it is possible to choose an umbrella-style pushchair with an hood that is waterproof.

Another aspect to consider is how easy the product will be to use. Consider features that make your life easier, like a compact fold using only one hand and safety harnesses that are easy to adjust. Consider the weight of the stroller and how easy it is to lift. Finally, you'll want to think about how maneuverable the pushchair is and if it will fit through doors or other narrow spaces.

If you're unsure what kind of pushchair you should purchase, read reviews or ask family members and friends for suggestions. It is also advisable to test different models before making a decision, especially if your family has young children.

You should also consider the development and age of your child, as they will increase in size at a rapid pace and need to be transported comfortably throughout their early years. You should also check whether the pushchair has the option of lying flat. Research has shown that babies who do not lying down position could have breathing issues.

A pram is a suitable option for newborns or small babies that require a flat surface. A carry cot or a bassinet can be attached to the frame and can be used from the time of birth. Many prams can be converted to pushchairs for older babies and typically have more features than strollers, such as a two-way seat that can be positioned forward or parents-facing. They are usually more durable than strollers pushchairs because the manufacturer has considered long-term usage.

Stores

A pushchair often has space under the seat to store items like spare clothes, coats and changing gear, bottles of water and snacks. There may also be a hood that can shield your child from rain and sun. You can clean your pushchair by vacuuming it, removing and washing the fabric with cool soapy water, and allowing it to dry outdoors. If mildew or mould develops it is possible to use the gentle sterilising liquid.

A pushchair is designed for toddlers and infants who can sit up without assistance. It has a frame that folds, making it easy to transport and store.