What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right pushchair, buggy, or pram. Consider the amount you're willing to spend, whether you want an e-bike that is compact or larger and how easy it will be to clean.

Look for models that have an reclining seat that has several positions, and a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Make sure they are flat as this is essential for your baby's developing spine.

Safety

When you are out and about with your baby in a stroller or pram, it's important that you follow safety guidelines to ensure your little one is comfortable and secure. Avoid overloading the stroller or pushchair travel system to ensure that there is no damage or instability. Avoid placing pillows or blankets in the pram as this could be hazardous for your child, especially when they suffer an accident. Similarly, don't allow older children to use the pram or stroller as this is a potential hazard.

It's also an excellent idea to search for a pushchair that has extra padding, especially around the headrest, as this will help to protect your child from crashing into objects when out and out and about. It's also a good idea to choose an infant stroller with cushioned headrests as this will protect your child from hitting things while out and out and about.

Some pushchairs and prams have the bassinet attachment, which is perfect for babies to lie flat in the comfort of a cocoon and be comfortable. Others may have a carrycot that is removed when your baby is old enough to sit up. Some prams will also have seats that can be switched between the two modes as your baby grows.

Many prams and pushchairs are designed to fold into small dimensions when not in use, making them easier to store and transport in your car boot or on public transport. It is worth assessing the size of the pushchairs when folded, as this can make a difference when you need to fit them in tight spaces or up and down stairs.

If you plan to use your stroller or pram into more rough terrain, such as parks or fields or even at the beach, it is best to choose an option with off-road wheels. They are more suitable to these types of environments. Check that the wheels have air in them since they will be able to glide smoothly over rough terrain and will not puncture.

A sunshade or a parasol that can be attached directly to the frame of your pushchair can provide shade and guard your child from overheating on hot days. These can be purchased separately or as an entire set of accessories for your pushchair. There are many styles and colours available.

Comfort

A great pram should be comfortable to push for both you and your baby. A softly cushioned seat liner, adjustable settings that allow your baby to lie flat or sway slightly (good for reflux sufferers) and a wide sun canopy are all useful. Choose suspension systems that ensure a smoother ride and a brake system that is quick to stop quickly in an emergency.

It's vital that your pushchair be able to accommodate this position for the first few weeks. A lot of frames come with the newborn carrycot, which can be converted into a reclining seat when your child is old enough. This lets you have both a stroller and pram in the same frame.

It is also important to consider your needs when choosing a pram, for instance, whether it's easy to manoeuvre and what sort of storage space you require. Visit a store where you can test-drive different pushchairs and prams to determine how they feel and fold. It's also a good idea to look over any accessories you'd like for your baby, like an armband, a seat liner and fans that can help your baby to stay cool in summer or warm in winter.

Finally, you'll need to consider the overall style of your pushchair. Does it suit your lifestyle and personality? You will be using your pushchair for many years, so make sure you pick a colour or print that you will be happy with.

A lightweight pushchair with puncture-proof tyres, a big bouncy suspension and a hood can be pulled down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs, offering just the right balance of comfort for both your child and you. With a stylish and sophisticated brushed twill fabric, faux-leather handles and leatherette trims that have a traditional feel but also looks modern and fresh. It's also reasonably priced and comes with a variety of useful accessories.

Practicality

The terms pram shops near me, pushchair buggy, pram and travel system (you can look here) get thrown around a lot but it's crucial to pick one that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Look for models that can fold into smaller dimensions to make it easier when you're taking it on public transport and in your car's boot or storage space at home. If you opt for an infant stroller or a travel system that has a separate baby seat, make sure that it snaps on easily to the chassis and can be detached without disturbing your baby (especially when they're asleep).

Many prams come with a large storage basket under the seat to allow you to keep your shopping bags, nappies, and bags in your hand. The wheels are usually pivoting, making it simple to maneuver and steer them in narrow aisles of shops or in areas with a lot of people, such as parks and beaches. If you plan to use it in the country, you might want a model with wide all-terrain tires that can handle rough terrain and muddy paths.

A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a pram and offers the convenience of a seat that can be adjusted to a variety of positions, which is ideal for newborns and babies who can sit up. A large canopy will protect your baby or toddler from the sun. Some models are suitable for rain.

Take note of how the model weighs and if you are able to safely lift it into the car boot or up the stairs (with or without a baby inside). - especially as they will get heavier over time. It might be worth paying more to get a washable cover that makes cleaning up spills or leaks from nappy diapers quick and easy. It's an excellent idea to try out any pushchair or pram you're thinking of buying so that you can see how they feel and move and also how they fold and carry. It is also a good idea to determine if the handlebars are comfortable to hold.

Cleaning

The most effective way to minimize the risk of mildew and mould is to clean your pushchair regularly. This includes cleaning any fabric components when they become dirty and giving them a thorough wash every couple of weeks or so. Using a deodoriser or fabric freshener regularly can also help keep odours at bay and help prevent the accumulation of grime that can cause the growth of mould spores as well as an unhygienic environment for your baby.

It's a good idea to remove any covers or padding prior to cleaning your pushchair. This will allow you to access and clean those difficult to reach areas like the canopy, hood or seat supports. Choose a place that is well-ventilated and lay down sheets to protect the floor. This will make cleaning simpler. Make use of a vacuum cleaner that has a flexible nozzle to remove any food or dirt that might have gotten stuck in the nooks and crevices.

If you have an infant foldable stroller with removable fabric parts, then start by reading the care instructions of the manufacturer and washing them according to the instructions (either in the machine or by hand). In general, it's safe to make use of a solution of warm water and mild soap (or a mild detergent) on the majority of fabrics used in prams. However, it is advisable to spot test the fabric for colourfastness before using any cleaning products as some chemicals can harm or bleach delicate fabrics.

Stains and marks that stick to the surface can be easily removed by adding a small amount of bicarbonate of soda to the wash. It is a potent stain remover that can eliminate many types odours including those caused by urine and milk. It will also help to remove any soap residues or detergent. After washing, rinse the fabric well to remove any soap residue, and hang it to dry. It is best to do this outdoors as the sunlight acts as both a natural fabric softener and an effective disinfectant.