What to Look For in Pushchairs

A pushchair is a safe way to transport your baby. They are also comfortable, and provide a smooth ride.

You should consider a shade to protect your child from the sun. Most pushchairs include one but if not, most brands sell them as an accessory.

If you're planning on another baby, look at the possibility of a convertible pushchair that could transform into a double. Some even come with the option of a carry cot and a seat unit as part of the travel system.

Safety

It is essential that your pushchair is safe because it's your baby's home when on the road. All coach-built prams, strollers and buggies must be compliant with British standard BS7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003. This certification should be displayed on the product information of a reputable brand.

A five-point harness is a guarantee of your baby's safety. It should be securely positioned over their shoulders and around their waists, and also between their legs. Check that the buckles are simple to remove and clip and that the straps have firm connections.

You should also check that the brake on your pushchair is accessible and functions as intended. You should also consider investing in an reflective strip to help other road users spot you and your child during the dark winter months.

If your pushchair can carry two children, make sure that the footrests run the entire length of both seats. This will prevent the child from falling into the two foot rests and slipping out of the stroller.

All pushchairs, prams and buggys have the capacity to carry a maximum weight. This limit is important to know prior using the pushchair. A child who is overweight could cause it to be unstable.

A good pushchair will be able to withstand being pushed over a variety of surfaces. Select one with big, sturdy wheels. The tyres must be made of a durable material that can withstand punctures and provide good traction on slippery roads. Some pushchairs are designed to be used off-road and have a special suspension for an even more comfortable ride.

Comfort

It is crucial to choose the best pushchair for your child. This could be as simple as making sure it has plenty of padding to ensure they're secure and supported or a footmuff to keep them warm and cosy in the colder months. Many pushchairs have reversible seats, which allow you to decide if they face your child for bonding or reassuring, or away from them to explore the world.

For new parents, it's also worth looking for a stroller with a seat that can lie flat. Experts advise that babies sleep flat for the first few months of their lives to aid in breathing and lung development. Many pushchairs claim that they can recline completely, but it is crucial to ensure that the seat provides the newborns a flat, comfortable position.

Some pushchairs can be easily moved into and out of a vehicle, and can even fit through narrow doors. Some pushchairs are also able to be able to fit into overhead luggage racks on planes and trains. These pushchairs are often equipped with a simple and quick fold mechanism, which enables you to collapse it with only one hand. They can also accommodate an infant car seats making them suitable for use starting from birth.

Other pushchairs such as the Silver Cross Adorra2 offer a luxurious and high-end design that will turn heads. They also come with an array of baby-related accessories such as car seat adapters and rain covers to protect your little ones from the elements. They are designed to be able to handle the daily life of a family and come with a simple to adjust five-point safety harness and large, puncture-proof wheels.

Style

A pushchair is likely to be the baby item you use the most frequently and it's crucial to find one that both you and your child are happy with. It's worthwhile to think about the finer points such as how comfortable the cushion is and whether the handlebar features an adjustable height. There are many other little factors that can make a huge difference, such as an organizer for things or a front wheel lock.

A pram is made for two children to be transported at the same time, usually a toddler along with an infant. It's more compact than a pushchair, and it's easier to maneuver in tight spaces, or on public transport. It can be a tandem, or a single-seater in which the child is seated behind their parent.

Both pushchairs and prams can be used from the time of birth however, they are mostly designed for older babies because they are more spacious than buggies, and feature an adjustable seat which can face either away from you. They usually have the option of adding an infant car seat, carry cot or Versatile 3-in-1 PU Leather Stroller with Car Seat so that they can be used from birth until your child becomes a toddler. This is a great value travel system.

Some pushchairs come with a single brake pedal, while others have a foot and hand brake that work together to stop your pushchair in a secure and controlled way. The foot pedal is typically located on the back axle of the pushchair while the hand brake is situated at the top of the frame, near the rear wheels. The foot brake is perfect for parents who live in the mountains or the countryside as it stops them from losing control of their pushchair.

Size

There are a variety of different pushchair sizes. Some can be used from birth because they have an adjustable seat that can be sat on and a carrycot or bassinet attachment. Some can be used from the moment the child can sit up unaided typically about 6 months. They can have the seat facing towards parents to encourage bonding and reassurance or away from them to allow the child to explore the world around them.

The size of the wheel is important. Some have larger wheels to allow to allow for better maneuverability on rougher surfaces. Some have smaller wheels to make a lighter frame and are more easy to push over pavements.

Some pushchairs have one brake pedal that locks both rear wheels. This is helpful in the event that you need to stop for an afternoon coffee or to shop. Some have two brake pedals to increase control and safety. It is essential that your stroller has adequate braking as it will be used on uneven terrains so make sure you test the brakes regularly.

There are a variety of features that will aid you in choosing the perfect pushchair that will meet the needs of your family and infant. Features that are simple to use, such as a compact fold that can be done by hand and an safety harness that is easy to adjust, or adjustable handlebars, can simplify the lives of parents of toddlers and newborns.

The choice of the right pushchair is an investment in the safety and comfort of your toddler or baby. It's likely to be the baby product you'll be using for the longest time so it's worth taking the time to consider what features are important to you and your family.

Buying a pushchair

Your pushchair is one of the most important purchases you'll make for your baby and it will be in your home for a few years, so you need to think about which features are most suitable for you. Think about how it fits into your lifestyle. A stroller that is all-terrain is great for country walks but not so great on a shiny floor. If you're planning to use it with your grandparents, you might require something that is easy for them to control and steer without feeling like they require an academic degree.

Newborn babies must lie flat, so you'll need an infant car seat with an infant car seat (travel system) or a reclining seat that can be used from birth. Some models also have an adjustable seat so that you can decide to face your baby or world facing as they become older.

When selecting a pushchair, you may also wish to look at accessories such as shopping trays and baskets or pram changing bags that can make it easier to complete errands with your child in your arms. Some pushchairs are equipped with hoods that offer additional protection from the sun's rays, and others have rain covers that keep your baby dry as it begins to drizzle.

Some pushchairs are convertible, meaning they can be used as a double or single and expand with your family, typically by adding an additional seat unit or carrycot. This is a great option when you're thinking to have another child soon after baby number one, or when you're not certain what your plans are for the future in the near future.