Buying a Push Chair

A push chair (also known as buggy or stroller and pushchair) is one of the most frequently used baby items. Designed to provide support and security for newborns, pushchairs usually offer the option of facing towards parents.

The powerchair is controlled via an electronic joystick that can be adjusted to suit those with lower upper body strength, or via sip and puff controllers. (These are operated by blowing air into the tube). The chair can also be equipped with the Kerb-climber.

Seating

Alongside the changing mat and baby carrier, a pushchair is likely to be among the most used baby products you will purchase so it is important to think about the finer points that ensure it is comfortable for both parent and child. The most important features to look out for are the seating options and whether you would like your child to face either you or the world, and how flexible the handlebar can be.

Some pushchairs (also known as buggies or prams) are suitable for babies and have an adjustable seat which can be sunk to allow babies to sleep. Some models will come with a carrycot, infant car seat and pushchair in one (travel system) which makes it easier to move your family around as they develop.

Some pushchairs come with an adjustable seat which gives you the option of placing your child facing either you or the world. This is useful for young infants as they are more comfortable with familiar faces and can be easier to keep an eye on them. If you opt for a pushchair with this option it is crucial to ensure that the seat will give your baby a flat, completely supported lie-flat position.

There are various types of seats for older children and toddlers to suit their needs and age. Some seats can recline and tilt the backrest, without changing posture to prevent pressure sores. Some seats come with a built-in foot rest that lifts the user to eye level. This is beneficial when traveling with children or parents who have difficulties getting their child into the vehicle.

There are also powerchairs with several power options which can be controlled using an armrest-mounted control panel. armrest. It is programmable so that it will fit the individual user and their abilities. Your assessment specialist can assist you choose the right seating system and power options for your wheelchair.

The seat fabric is usually machine washable and can be cleaned with a damp cloth or soft sponge, which will help you keep it looking clean. Some manufacturers offer additional accessories, for example the footmuff, which keeps your feet warm during colder months, and a seat cover that can be put over the existing seat. This will shield it from crumbs, spills and accidents that occur when you are the potty training.

Wheels

The range of brands and models can be overwhelming if are unfamiliar with the world of pushchairs. It's not surprising that buying an infant pushchair can be an overwhelming experience.

The wheels of your buggy are an important aspect to take into consideration, since they affect the performance. For example, larger wheels are better able to deal with rough surfaces and bumpy pavements, while smaller wheels can be more suitable for urban areas.

Your lifestyle and preferred terrain can also influence what kind of wheel tyres to select. If you plan to use your pushchair for jogging you'll need air-filled tires that absorb vibrations and keep your child comfortable. They are a standard feature on all-terrain pushchairs, such as the Phil and Ted's Sport, which includes 3 tyres with air filled.

If you don't plan to jog, but still need to ensure that your baby is secure on uneven or rough terrain, you may prefer rubber or foam tyres. They are more durable and offer better shock absorption than plastic tyres. They are typically found on three-wheelers and all-terrain pushchairs, but they can also be found on some lightweight strollers.

A set of wheels for a newborn pushchair designed to last should be durable and easy to maintain. A regular spray down with buckets or hoses of lukewarm water should be sufficient to wash away most of the dirt and debris, however, you can also use products such as WD-40 that work as penetrating oils, assisting to grease your wheels for smooth movement.

Some pushchairs come with wheels that can be removed to allow for a smaller footprint when folded that are useful for those who need to move or store your pushchair in tight areas. It is common to take off the front wheels of the pushchair, but make sure to read the directions first.

Find a handlebar that can be adjusted to fit the height of the user. This is a useful feature to consider if you intend to share the pushchair with your child's grandparents. It will make it easier for them to drive.

Suspension

The suspension system of a pushchair softens the bumps you encounter on your journey. This is a particularly important feature for people who have disabilities, as it assists to reduce the energy required to sit in the chair and provides good postural support.

The kind of suspension used on a pushchair will differ from one model to the next so it is best to consider your needs and the terrain you'll be traveling over when selecting the best one for you. Suspension that is strong is ideal for those who reside in rural areas and will be using their stroller for long walks, but may not be necessary for those who reside in urban areas where smooth pavements are common.

The larger wheels are better at absorbing shocks than smaller ones. You will also find that some pushchairs are fitted with a combination of different types of tyres - pneumatic, foam-filled or PU that can provide shock absorption, but without the danger of punctures.

You may also notice that some models come with an swivel front wheel that can aid in enhancing the maneuverability. Based on the material used, you will also want to think about whether or not your pushchair can be machine washed. Cleaning the fabric of your pushchair clean is essential since it can prevent bacteria build-up that could cause dampness and even mould.

You can easily clean your pushchair with an easy-to-clean detergent or mild disinfectant. Make sure you scrub off any loose mildew or mould using a soft bristle brush. Do this outside to avoid it spreading. If possible allow it to dry in the sun. If you have stored your pushchair for some time, you can apply a mild sterilising solution to prevent mould and damp from developing.

Controls

A push chair is the baby item that you will use the most often so it's crucial that it has controls that are easy to understand and operate. It's usually folds easily from front to back (like an shell) and may come with an auto-lock that holds it shut. Some models will come with an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to different heights to accommodate parents of different age and heights.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' provide two options for the seat to face either towards the parent (parent facing) or away from them (world facing) so that parents can connect with their child and allow them to discover the world around them. Some pushchairs have extra features, for example, the ability to recline the seat back, which reduces the amount of time spent by your child sitting down. This can help to improve their posture.

The type of brake used is an important consideration for a person who uses a pushchair and can vary from model to model. The most commonly used type of brake is a foot pedal located on the rear axle. It works by placing your foot on the pedal to stop the wheels. Some models feature an active hand brake that you control by using your hand to alter the direction of movement. This is more suitable for users who require a slick brake that they can quickly and effectively use while they move in a noisy environment.

Certain models come with a swivel front wheel option that is especially beneficial if you're traveling over rough terrain. The swivel wheel lets you to maneuver more easily over uneven surfaces or while crossing a busy street. The most effective pushchair tyres are constructed of rubber, such as EVA and PU. They offer the same quality of ride as air tyres but without the danger of punctures.