Buying a Pushchair Stroller

A good pushchair must be easy-to-use. Look for a stroller that is easy to operate, has a parking break that's simple to set and release and can be raised without having to hold it.

Some pushchairs can be converted into doubles, and some come with separate seat units and carrycots so that you can grow with your family. Look for one with a hood that's SPF/UPF 50+ and a shade.

Comfort

It is essential that the pushchair is comfortable for both you and your baby. Make sure the seat padding is suitable for your baby and that the movable handlebars are comfortable to be able to operate. You may also want look at the recline mechanism - some have multiple positions while others offer an upright position that is suitable for newborns.

Different manufacturers employ different terms to describe their products. However prams or pushchair, as well as strollers are usually designed for older babies or toddlers. Prams are more traditional and have larger frames. Strollers are generally smaller and lighter. Prams are often convertible into stroller seats for infants, so you can use them as your child grows.

Many parents opt for the pram for their baby because it is a large carrycot that allows babies to lie flat in a bed-like environment which is ideal for naps and travelling. They can be set to face either parent facing or to be orientated towards the world which makes them perfect for parents who want to be able to watch their child throughout their journeys.

If your baby's pram doesn't have a lie-flat option, you should consider investing in a carrycot that can be affixed to the chassis of your pram. These allow your newborn to sleep in a fully flat position, which is vital to ensure healthy lung and spine development.

A pushchair or stroller should be a breeze to maneuver and have a lightweight, sturdy frame that's well built and designed for smooth surfaces. Make sure to test out a friend's pushchair before buying to see the way it handles and if you are able to easily control, turn and maneuver it around tight corners. It is best to choose a single-handed steering mechanism, that allows you to carry your shopping bags in addition to the handlebars.

Strollers are usually designed to be lighter and more compact than prams, and can fold easily to be stored and transported. They are ideal for long distances and for jogging pushchair. Some models come with additional features like sunshades, cup holders or hoods that can be adjusted. They're a great option for families with older infants and toddlers, who can sit upright and take in the scenery.

Safety

Don't leave your stroller in the car with children inside. Avoid overloading it with bags of heavy weight and ensure it's not overloaded, as this could cause it to fall over, particularly if you are going up or down slopes. Review the instructions of the manufacturer for the maximum weight for the basket as well as any other areas you can hang things from, as it is important to keep baby safe. Also, look for a storage basket with closed lids that are secure to prevent babies or toddlers from getting their fingers stuck within the gap when it's opened.

A pushchair (also known as buggy or pram) should always have a five-point safety harness that can be slid over the shoulder over the waist, around the waist and between the legs. A rain cover can protect your baby against the elements. Straps or plastic links to connect toys so that they don't fall out and get lost are great ideas as well.

Find a smooth and enjoyable ride by selecting an air-filled stroller instead of rubber ones. These tyres perform the same as bicycle tyres, and offer a more comfortable ride. They also absorb road bumps without you feeling them. However, they are more susceptible to punctures than rubber tyres and it is recommended to carry a repair kit for punctures on hand in case of.

Many parents opt to purchase the pushchair with a reclined seat to allow the baby to lay back and relax during a walk or outing. This is because research has suggested that young babies who spend too long in an upright position may be prone to breathing problems. It is recommended that you only use a pushchair that has an adjustable seat after your baby has reached six months old.

Look for a stroller with brakes that are easy to use and stay locked when it is in use. Check that the brakes work correctly before purchasing a used model. There are older models that may have a brake lever that is located high so that toddlers can reach it. This poses a risk and you should replace it with an alternative brake lever, to ensure that your child is unable to reach it while in the pushchair.

Style

If you're in the market for a stroller that can handle rocky and uneven terrain, you need to consider whether it comes with lockable swivel wheels. If you don't have a suspension, you will need one. It could cost more, but it is worth it if going to use the stroller off-road or on vacation where the terrain can be rough.

If your child is young, you should choose an infant stroller with an adjustable seat that can be placed flat. Research suggests that babies who aren't lying flat can become stressed when travelling for long periods of time and could have breathing difficulties. For this reason, it is recommended to only travel for short distances when you have infants in a non-lay-flat pushchair.

You can pick a pushchair walker when your baby is old enough to sit on their own. They are usually less expensive than prams and can be folded to fit into the car boot. They are also a great option for toddlers who are able walk on their own.

Both types of pushchair can be purchased in a wide range of styles and colours to fit your individual preference and style. Many pushchairs come with matching accessories to make your baby's journey more enjoyable. You can buy Pushchair a matching bag to keep your baby warm and comfortable during outings. Or, you could add a Platinum Winter Footmuff that is made of real down and feather blend filling to withstand cold winter temperatures.

Check the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean and maintain a 2-in-1, 3-in-1, or 4-in-1 pushchair. The fabric may differ between brands however, you should search for a material that is easily cleaned with a damp cloth. If your pushchair will be exposed to mud or dust It is better to wash your wheels with a hosepipe or soapy water to avoid scuff marks.

Accessories

There are a variety of accessories for pushchairs to improve comfort, functionality and design. Some are essentials for all parents, while others can be adapted to meet the needs of each individual.

A carrycot is a must-have accessory for newborns, as it provides a safe place to rest. It can be affixed to a frame for a pushchair and features handles for easy removal when not in use. Carrycots also have a large hood to protect infants from the elements.

The changing bags are another must-have item, designed to hold everything you require to enjoy a day out with your baby. With handy straps, they're perfect for keeping wipes, nappies bottles, clothes, and snacks on hand.

A pushchair umbrella can be a great investment for rainy days. Usually made of waterproof material, it's tailored to fit the pushchair frame for a perfect and secure fit. Raincovers are also a fantastic option for cars, as they're able to be used with most car seats and strollers.

As your family grows you might want to add an additional chair or ride on board to your stroller. Reminiscent of a skateboard, these accessories can be affixed to the lower portion of the frame of the stroller for older siblings to hitch a ride on. Most brands offer adapters that are specifically made for their ride-on boards, making it easier to use.

A footmuff is a key accessory during winter to keep babies warm thanks to its soft interior and showerproof exterior. Many pushchairs have the footmuff in their accessory range or you can purchase them separately.

Stroller mittens are perfect for colder weather as they allow parents to grip the handlebars without taking off their gloves or putting them on every time they need to use the brake pedal. A stroller organizer is a great accessory to ensure maximum convenience. It helps keep essentials such as keys, phones and bus passes in one spot.

A luggage tag is an excellent way to identify your pushchair when out and out and about. It's helpful to keep your contact details and name in case the pushchair gets lost or stolen.