What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams; Click Home, can seem confusing. Prams are designed to transport infants and toddlers with a lie-flat seating.

Some prams come with the option of a carrycot or bassinet for infants. Some models even have the option of changing it into a pushchair for older babies.

If you intend to take public transportation or have to fold your pushchair often, opt for a lightweight and compact stroller.

Comfort

Your pushchair will probably be used more than your bottles and nappies. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable during every trip by selecting one that has plenty of padding and an ergonomic seat that can be adjusted to the height of your child.

It's important to note that many prams or buggies are equipped with a fitted pram blanket, which can help to keep your child warm. They can be popped in the wash and are available in a variety of colors and designs to suit your style.

A pram set is made for infants up to around six months old, as they're at a stage in which they have to lie flat, often with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. The majority of prams have the option of 'parent ' or 'world-facing. This allows you to choose whether you prefer your baby to be facing you to connect with you, or explore the sights and sounds of their surroundings. Some prams convert into pushchairs, like the iCandy Peach 7 – a premium single-to-double pushchair which can be used as early as birth with the carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg with elevators).

The most important thing to keep in mind is that babies who are very young should not travel in any pushchair that doesn't recline completely to a flat position. When they are in a crouching posture, it can impact their breathing as they breathe in more air than they would normally. This can lead to respiratory problems in the long term.

A pushchair is a seat on wheels that folds typically to a compact size, and is generally designed towards older babies and toddlers up to the age of around three years old. They're often made from more durable materials than a pram, and you will typically find models that allow you to switch the direction of the seat so that your child can face you to provide reassurance, or away from you so they can explore the world around them.

Safety

The safety of your child in a pram or pushchair is essential. It is best to only place your child in a pushchair or pram that has been designed for their size and age. This will help them feel safe and secure, and will prevent accidents. If you're buying a baby pushchair or pram that you've found second-hand it's essential to conduct visual safety inspections. This will ensure that the item is in good working order and isn't damaged in any way that could be dangerous for your child.

If you're looking for a pram or pushchair make sure you choose one equipped with a safety harness that has easy and quick clips and connections. Check that the buckles are not loose and that the straps are snugly around the waist of your child. Look for models with a larger base since they are more stable than models with a smaller base.

Be careful not to overload your pushchair or pram with toys. This could cause it to tip over and your baby could fall out. Similarly, don't put things in the storage basket that could fall out and harm your baby - this includes toys, drinks and food items.

Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your pram or stroller. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, make sure that you dry it thoroughly. This will stop mould or mildew from forming.

It's a great idea to wash the removable footmuff on your pushchair or pram prior to when you use it again in winter. You can do this by taking the fabric off and washing it with cool soapy water, then leaving it to air dry outside. It's also a good idea to brush any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.

Experts recommend that infants lie flat as soon as they can in a pushchair or pram. This will help their development and reduce back pain later in life.

Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, both retailers and manufacturers are required to provide products that will be safe for normal or reasonably regular use. This applies to both new and second hand prams and strollers.

Style

Some parents want the most functional set-up of wheels they can find, but many parents also want a pram that is as fashionable as their baby. There are a lot of high-quality pushchairs and prams on the market that blend high-end engineering with attractive designs that are as eye-catching as they are practical.

When selecting a pram or pushchair the first thing you should think about is the seat padding. Babies can be messy creatures and so having a pushchair that's easy to clean is important. This is true especially if you intend to use your stroller for long walks on rough terrain, or over dirt and gravel. Search for a pushchair that includes removable seat covers as well as a recline mechanisms that can be machine-washed. Make sure the fabric is machine washable to keep your baby comfortable and dry.

Another thing to think about is the direction that your baby will be facing in their pushchair. Most 'from-birth' pushchairs allow you to change the seat from parent facing (facing the parent to reassure and bond) or even world facing to let your child explore the world. Some prams have this option, however it's not an option for all models.

Combination prams, also called 3-in-1 prams, are an increasingly popular option for families because they can fit an infant basket and a pushchair seat on the same frame. They are typically designed to be used starting at birth and are suitable for newborns up to six months.

A travel system is similar to a combination stroller in that it allows the attachment of a car seat to the frame using adaptors. These are great for babies and toddlers from birth to three years old. They can be less expensive than buying separate items.

Twin prams and pushchairs can be the ideal option for twins or siblings who require the comfort and safety of. They come in a variety of styles and can be equipped with a single or double car seat.

Stores

A pram or pushchair should not only be secure and comfortable for your child, but also offer ample storage for all the essentials. Look for models that have a spacious shopping basket that can store all the baby stroller items including spare clothing as well as changing gear bottles of water, and snacks. Some models have a compartment for the parent or child which is ideal to keep your personal belongings. If you're looking to purchase a stroller with additional storage consider a convertible model that has different configurations. Having extra space is especially important if you're planning to take your child for long walks or excursions away from home and require a place to store everything you'll need.

Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is maneuverability. Opt for swivel wheels to easily navigate narrow passageways and also look for brakes with locking that are responsive enough to stop quickly. If you're looking at an ultra-lightweight model, make sure it comes with the correct suspension system and foldable dimensions for easy storage and transport. If you're looking to buy something more durable for off-road travel then choose a model that has robust, all-terrain tires that can take on rough terrains.

The primary distinction between a pram and pushchair is that a pushchair offers a lie-flat sleeping position for newborns, while the pushchair is better suitable for older infants and toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some prams are able to be converted into a pushchair simply by removing the bassinet and replacing it with a seat, and other models like the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one models that can be converted into an automobile seat or a carrycot.

Whatever type of pushchair or pram you pick, make sure to read reviews on the internet and seek recommendations from friends and family. Try out several models before making a final decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their folding pram capabilities and how they feel. You may also want consider whether a convertible model is the right option for you, as they can be used interchangeably between one or two babies and save money on purchasing an entirely new set of wheels every time your baby grows up!