What to Look For in a Pushchair

A pushchair can be used from the very beginning of a child's life. It can be used as a pram or a stroller and comes with many features that parents will appreciate.

Choose a seat that offers multiple recline positions and a five-point harness to ensure the safety of your child. Often, it will include a carry cot frame that fits an infant car seat too.

Safety

The most important aspect to think about when selecting the best pushchair for your child or toddler is safety. It is essential that the pushchair is fitted with a five point safety harness and is securely fastened. This should fit snuggly around the child's shoulders, waist and between their legs with buckles that are simple to clip together and undo. Handlebars should be placed to stop children from wriggling away from the seat.

A pushchair must also have a stable base and be free of dangers such as sharp or curved corners which could cause injuries. Some pushchairs come with a lock on the wheels that is ideal for off-road use, as it will stop the wheel from falling off. Brakes are also important and should be accessible. They should be simple to use and secure. Some pushchairs come with wrist tethers for extra security.

Prams, strollers and buggies should all be handled with care and inspected regularly. Never overload the pram for newborn or buggies with extra baggage and ensure that you keep the 5-point safety harness in place and secured. Parents should ensure that their children don't play with the fold-away mechanism and that they stay away from any area which they might get caught.

A lot of pushchairs come with an adjustable bassinet or carrycot which is ideal for newborns as they need to lie down flat to sleep. This is crucial because of the danger of SIDS. Babies who compact travel pram in a seated position for too long may develop breathing difficulties as they cannot breathe properly when in a squinched up position.

Some manufacturers make single and double pushchairs suitable for different ages. Some of these can be converted into prams using an adapter or by changing the seat unit. Any pushchair or pram designed for older children should have a fully reclining backrest, as babies need to be able to lie flat for about six months of age.

Convenience

A pushchair should be simple to move around, even in tight spaces. It must also be able move over many different surfaces, from paved walkways to rough grass. Certain models have a suspension system that will give a smooth ride as well as reduce the stress on your child's joints.

A pushchair usually includes storage space underneath the seat. This is great for storing extra clothes and a bag with changing cloths, as well as water bottles. Some come with a canopy that protects babies from the sun or wind. Some have an attached handle that is easy to push with one hand, whereas others have a single handle that can be adjusted to accommodate different heights.

Many pushchairs let you move your child either towards you, to give you reassurance, or away from you to let them explore the world. This is a great feature for newborns and infants.

Some pushchairs are suitable to use from birth, provided they come with a seat that can lie flat and a safety harness that is suitable. Make sure that the description of the pushchair clearly states it can be used right from birth. Also, make sure that it has a fully reclined seat that allows your baby to lay in a flat position, which is crucial for their development.

Pushchairs are usually small and can be tucked away in your home or car. With the addition of a car seat or carrycot, they can be used as a part of an entire travel system.

A pram can also be referred to as a baby carriage, bassinet or a baby carriage. It is specifically designed for infants and newborns. It has a fully flat sleeping area to allow your baby to lie down, which is essential for their lung and spine development. A pram is a great choice for toddlers and older babies, from around six months.

Comfort

A pushchair is one of the most important purchases you'll make for your child. It will be used for a long period of time so comfort is paramount. Many models come with adjustable handles and comfortable seat padding that can be adjusted to the height of the parents. This makes it easier to steer and reduces strain, particularly on your arms and shoulder when you've carried your baby all day.

It is recommended that newborn babies lie flat to sleep and some pushchairs allow a fully flat sleeping position. It is crucial that your child has the option to lie flat. This will ensure their health and growth. Newborns do not have the strength to sit upright for long periods of time and this can interfere with their breathing, so it's crucial that they can lay comfortably in a seated position.

Some of the pushchairs 'from-birth' include a bassinet, carrycot, or baby hammock you can use to support and rest your newborn. These are often more expensive, but the additional cost is worth it to ensure your baby is safe and secure in the early years of their life.

A ventilated canopy is another important feature to look for when choosing a pushchair. It will keep your baby cool and comfortable during outdoor excursions. This will enhance their health and wellbeing and help them sleep better.

Many pushchairs come with a variety of baskets or storage compartments which provide ample space for your baby's necessities. This is perfect to store toys and clothing to keep your child entertained during their walks. It will also save you from carrying around extra bags when you go out.

Most pushchairs let you choose the direction your baby faces either towards you (rearward) or facing the world (frontward). Some models also have the option of a carrycot being attached to the frame. This allows you to transfer your newborn from car to pushchair and not disturb them.

A lightweight pushchair is essential when you're planning on travelling with your baby stroller. It's easier to lift into a car or boot and is smaller to store in your home. It's also much more maneuverable in crowded places and on public transport.

Accessories

There are many accessories for pushchairs available that can make life with your little one easier and more comfortable. Shades and raincovers are available that can be placed on the top of the pushchair and create a barrier of protection to keep your baby dry while shielding them from harmful UV rays. Footmuffs (which are available as a part of pushchair bundles or separately) bags for shopping and a pram changing bag are also useful accessories.

Travel systems are another popular item that lets you attach your car seat with strollers. This accessory makes travelling with your child a lot easier since you can keep them safely attached. It's also a great option for parents who frequently use public transport often.

Take into consideration the number of recline and turning positions you need when you are choosing a stroller. Most pushchairs have a rectangulated chair that lets you change the direction that your child is facing. This can be especially helpful for infants who are advised to lie in a flat position to help with their breathing and growth. It is also beneficial to find a pushchair that can switch the seat from a parent-facing position to forward facing at the click of a button, since this is helpful as your child grows a bit older and you'd like to to monitor them.

The type of wheels you have on your pushchair is also crucial. Make sure they are fixed, swivel or lockable. The size of the wheel will also differ. Larger wheels will provide more comfort. It is also worth determining if the pushchair has pneumatic tyres, or the latest innovation; PU tyres which offer all the advantages of air tyres, but without the risk of punctures.

Think about the fold-up function of your pushchair as well as its weight, as these will impact how easy it is to store it and transport. Some models have a small footprint when folded and can be easily stored in the trunk of your car, or in overhead compartments of public transport.