What to Look For in a Pushchair

A pushchair can be used from the beginning of a child's life. It could be a stroller or pram and it has many features that parents will be thrilled to see in their new pushchair.

Look for a seat with multiple recline positions and five-point harnesses to ensure the safety of your child. It's likely to come with the frame of a carrycot that can be used with infant car seats.

Safety

The most important aspect to take into consideration when selecting a pushchair for your baby or toddler is safety. The pushchair must have a five-point safety harness and be securely secured. It should fit snugly around the child's waist, shoulders and between their legs with buckles that are easy to clip together and undo. The handlebars are another important consideration and should be positioned to prevent children from wriggling out of the seat.

A pushchair must also be built with a wide base for stability and must be free of any dangers like sharp or curved edges that could cause injuries. Some pushchairs have a lock on the wheels that is ideal for off road use since it prevents the wheel from slipping off. The brakes are also important and should be easily accessible. They should be easy-to-use and lockable. Some pushchairs pushchairs come with wrist tethers that provide additional security.

Prams, strollers, and buggies should all be used with care and must be inspected regularly. Never overload the pram or buggies with unnecessary baggage and always keep the 5-point safety harness on and secure. Parents should ensure that their children do not play with the folding mechanism and keep their fingers away from any areas in which they could get trapped.

Many pushchairs have a carrycot or bassinet that can be removed. This is ideal for infants who must sleep flat. This is particularly important because of the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Infants who are in a straight position for too long may have breathing issues since they cannot breathe properly when in a scrunched up position.

A few manufacturers offer pushchairs that are double or single and can be used by a variety of age groups. Some of these can be converted into prams with an adapter or by rearranging the seat unit. Any pushchair or pram specifically designed for older children must have a fully reclining backrest, as babies need to lay flat until about six months of age.

Convenience

A pushchair must be easy to maneuver even in tight spaces. It should also be able to be able to roll across various surfaces, from paved walkways to rough grass. Some models come with suspension that gives a smooth ride for your child and reduces the strain on joints.

A pushchair typically has storage space under the seat. This is ideal for storing extra clothing and a bag with changing cloths, as well as water bottles. Some pushchairs have a canopy that shields the baby from the wind or sun. Some have a linked handle which makes it easier to push with one hand. Others have a single handle that can be adjusted to different heights.

Many pushchairs allow you to move your child either towards you, for security, or away from you, so that they can explore the world. This is an excellent feature for infants and newborns.

Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, contingent on whether they feature a seat that is flat and a suitable safety harness. Verify that the description of the pushchair clearly states it can be used from birth, and that it includes a fully reclined seat that allows your baby to sleep in a lie-flat position, which is crucial for their development.

Pushchairs are usually small and can be tucked away in your home or car. They can also be used as a travel pram system by the addition of a carrycot or a baby car seat.

A pram, also known as a bassinet for babies or a baby carriage is intended for infants and newborns. It is a completely flat sleeping space that allows your baby to sleep, which is essential for their spinal and lung development. A pram is ideal for older babies and toddlers starting at around six months.

Comfort

A pushchair is one of the most important purchases you'll make for your child. It will be for a long time so comfort is paramount. Many models have comfortable seat padding as well as handles that can be adjusted to meet parents' heights. This makes it easier for you to control the pushchair, and lessens strain on your shoulders and arms, especially if you have been carrying baby around all day!

Some pushchairs have the option of sleeping on the floor for infants. It is important that your child is able to lie flat. This will help ensure their health and develop. Newborns do not have the strength to be straight for long periods and this can interfere with their breathing, so it's crucial that they can rest comfortably in a flat position.

Some pushchairs that are 'from birth' come with a carrycot, bassinet, or a baby hammock you can use to hold and rest your newborn. They are usually more expensive, but the extra cost is worth it to ensure that your baby is safe and secure in the early years of their life.

A ventilated canopy is a further important thing to look out for when choosing a pushchair. It will keep your baby cool and comfortable during outings. This will improve their naps as well as overall health and well-being.

Many pushchairs have a variety of storage compartments or baskets that provide ample space for your baby's necessities. This is ideal to store toys and clothes to keep them entertained on their walks. It can also help you avoid having to carry around bags of extra items when you're out and out and about.

The majority of pushchairs let you select the direction that your baby's face is facing, either facing you (rearward) or facing the world (frontward). Some models offer the option to connect a carrycot to the frame. It is then easy to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair without causing any disturbance to him.

A lightweight pushchair is a must if you're going to be travelling with your baby. It's easier to lift into a car or boot and is smaller to store in your home. It is also easier to maneuver when using public transport and in areas that are crowded.

Accessories

There are numerous accessories for pushchairs available that can make life with your little one easier and more convenient. Items like raincovers and shades are available that fit snugly on top of the pushchair and create a barrier of protection to keep your baby dry while shielding them from harmful UV radiation. Other helpful accessories include a footmuff (which is available as part of a pushchair bundle or sold separately) shopping baskets, as well as pram set changing bags.

Travel systems are another popular item that allows you to attach your car seat to a stroller. This makes travelling with your child a whole lot simpler as it allows you to keep them securely attached and is an excellent option for parents who regularly take public transport.

Consider the number of reclining and turning positions you require when choosing a stroller. Many pushchairs feature a reversible seat, allowing you to alter the direction your child's face is. This is particularly beneficial for infants, who are advised to sleep flat to aid with their breathing and growth. It is also recommended to look for a pushchair with the option of switching the seat from facing the parent to the child at the touch the button. This is a great feature when your child ages and you need to keep an eye on them.

The type of wheels you have on your pushchair is equally important. Check whether they are fixed, swivel, or lockable. The dimensions of the wheels will also differ and larger wheels typically giving an easier ride. It is also worth determining whether the pushchair is equipped with pneumatic tyres or the latest technology; PU tyres that have all the benefits of air tyres but without the danger of punctures.

Take into consideration the fold function of your pushchair and its weight, as these will influence how easy it is to store it and transport. Some models fold up small and can be tucked away in the trunk of your car or in the overhead compartments of public transport.