Buying a Pushchair Stroller

A good pushchair should be simple to use. Choose a stroller which is easy to use, features a parking break that's easy to set and release and stand up without you having hold it.

Some pushchairs can be converted to doubles and come with a separate carrycot and seat units to adapt to the needs of your family. Find a hood that has SPF/UPF50+ and a sun shade.

Comfort

It is essential that the pushchair is comfortable for both you and your child. The padding on the seat should be a good fit to your child's needs and the handlebars need to be adjustable to a suitable height. You may also want to consider recline mechanisms - some have multiple positions whereas others only provide a flat position that's suitable for babies.

Different manufacturers use different terminology to describe their products, but generally speaking a pram is designed to be used by newborns and infants, whereas a pushchair and stroller are designed for older babies and toddlers. Prams tend to have the traditional carriage design and a larger frame, while a stroller tends to be smaller and lighter. Prams can often convert into an infant stroller seat and you can continue to use them as your child grows.

Many parents choose to use a pram for their infant because it is a spacious carrycot that allows the baby to lie down flat and in a bed-like environment. This is great for naps, travel and even naps. They can be set up to face either parent facing or to be orientated towards the world and are ideal for parents who want to keep their baby in sight throughout their journeys.

If your pram does not offer a lie-flat option it is recommended to invest in a carrycot that can be affixed to the chassis of your pram. Carrycots allow your child to sleep in a upright position, which is essential for lung and spinal development.

A stroller or pushchair must be easy to maneuver and come with a sturdy, lightweight pushchair frame that is well-built and designed for smooth surfaces. Try out a Hauck Rapid 4D Pushchair - Compact All-round Stroller with a friend to see how it performs, and if you can easily turn it around and steer it around tight corners. It is recommended to select a single-handed steering mechanism, which lets you hold your shopping bags and the handlebars.

Strollers can be folded up for easy storage and transport. They are lighter and smaller than prams. They are better suited for long distances and for jogging. Some come with additional features, such as cup holders, sunshades, or adjustable hoods. These are a great choice for families with toddlers and infants who can sit straight and enjoy the ride.

Safety

A stroller must always be used with a child in it and never left unattended. Avoid overloading the stroller with heavy bags. This can cause it to topple, especially when you are climbing or descending slopes. It is crucial to review the instructions of the manufacturer to determine the maximum weight limit for the basket or any other locations where you could hang things. This will help keep your Midnight Red Kite Baby Pushchair - Lightweight Design safe. Also, look for a storage basket with an enclosed lid that is secure to keep toddlers and babies from getting their fingers caught in the gap when it's opened.

A pushchair (also known as buggy or pram) should always come with five-point safety harnesses that fits over the shoulder or around the waist, and in between the legs. A rain cover protects your child from the elements. Straps or plastic links to attach toys to ensure they don't fall and become lost are great ideas too.

Pick a stroller with air-filled tires rather than solid rubber tyres to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. These tyres perform the same as bicycle tyres, and offer a more comfortable ride. They will also absorb road bumps without feeling them. They are more prone to punctures, but they are less susceptible than rubber tyres. Therefore, it is a good idea for you to carry a puncture repair kit just in case.

Many parents choose to purchase a pushchair that has a reclined seat so their baby can relax and lie back during a stroll or outing. Recent research suggests that babies who are held in a straight position for too long may develop breathing problems. It is recommended to only use a stroller that has a reclining seat after your baby turns six months old.

Look for strollers that have brakes that can be easily operated and stay locked when in use. If you are buying a second-hand model, ensure that the brakes are in good condition prior to using it with your child. Certain older models may have a brake lever that is located high so that toddlers can reach it. This is a danger, and you should replace it with an entirely new brake lever so that your child can't reach it while in the pushchair.

Style

If you are looking for a pushchair capable of handling rough terrain and rocky terrain, search for one with locking swivels that lock. If you do not have a suspension system, you will need one. It may cost more, but it's worth it if you are planning to use the pushchair off-road or on vacation where the terrain is rough.

If your baby is very small, a pram with a lie-flat seat is the best choice. According to research infants who aren't lying flat may experience breathing difficulties and stress when they travel for long periods of time. This is why it is recommended to only travel for short distances when you have infants in a non-lay-flat pushchair.

When your baby is older and able to sit on their own, you may opt for a pushchair stroller. They are generally less complicated than prams and fold to fit in the car boot. They are also a good option for toddlers who are able walk independently.

Both types of pushchairs are available in a wide range of colors and styles to suit your personal preferences and style. Many pushchairs come with accessories to make your baby's experience more enjoyable. For instance, you can purchase a matching changing bag that will ensure that your baby is wrapped in warmth and coziness during outings. You could also consider adding a winter footmuff made of platinum with feather and down filling that will withstand cold temperatures.

If you're thinking of purchasing a 2-in-1 or 3-in1 pushchair that is able to transform or recline, then be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer on how to maintain and clean it. It will differ from one brand to brand, but generally it is recommended to look for a soft-washable fabric that can be cleaned easily with a damp cloth. If your pushchair is going to be exposed to mud or dust it is best to wash its wheels with soapy water and a hosepipe in order to prevent scuffs.

Accessories

There are a variety of accessories for pushchairs that can improve comfort, functionality and style. Some of these are essential for all parents, whereas others can be added to cater for individual needs.

A carrycot is an essential accessory for infants as it offers a secure place to rest. It can be attached to a frame for a pushchair and features handles for easy removal when not in use. Carrycots also have a large hood that protects babies from the elements.

A changing bag is a must-have. It's designed to hold everything you require during the day you spend with your child. They have straps that are convenient and are great for keeping diapers, wipes bottles, clothes and snacks in reach.

A pushchair umbrella can be an excellent investment for rainy days. It is typically made from waterproof material and tailored to fit the frame of the pushchair for an exact, safe fit. Raincovers can be used on strollers and car seats.

As your family grows, you may decide to add another seat or a ride-on board to the pushchair. Similar to a skateboard, these accessories can be attached to the lower portion of the stroller frame for older siblings to get to ride on. Many brands provide adapters for their ride-on board, ensuring the easiest user experience.

A footmuff is an essential accessory in winter to keep babies warm thanks to its soft interior and showerproof exterior. Many pushchairs have an accessory for feet in their accessories range or you can purchase them separately.

Stroller mittens are ideal for colder weather as they allow the parent to hold the handlebars and not take off their gloves or putting them on again every time they need to use the brake pedal. A stroller organizer is a great accessory for ultimate convenience. It helps keep essentials like keys, phones and bus passes in one spot.

A luggage tag is an excellent way to identify your pushchair while out and out and about. The fact that you have your name and contact information in your bag can be helpful should your pushchair be stolen or lost, so it's worth investing in one.