What to Look For in Pushchairs

A pushchair provides a safe method of transporting your child. They are also comfortable and offer a smooth ride.

You should consider a shade to shield your child from the sun. Most pushchairs come with one, however, if they don't, many brands sell it as an accessory.

If you're planning on a second baby take a look at a convertible pushchair which can grow into a double. Some models even include an upholstered seat and carry cot unit as part of the travel system.

Safety

It is essential that your pushchair is safe as it's your baby's safe place when they travel. 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 product information of a reputable brand.

A five-point harness can ensure your baby's safety. It should fit snugly over their shoulders, around their waists and between their legs. Make sure that the straps and buckles are easily secured and untied.

Check that the brakes on your pushchair sale are accessible and work as intended. You should also consider investing in reflective strips to help other road users identify your child and you in the dark winter months.

If your pushchair is designed to accommodate two children, be sure that it has one footrest that runs along the length of both seats. This will prevent the child from falling into the two foot rests and possibly falling out of the stroller.

All pushchairs, prams, and buggys must have a maximum weight limit. It's crucial to know the weight limit prior to using the pushchair because placing children who are overweight in a pushchair could cause it to become unstable.

A quality pushchair should be able to handle being pushed over a variety of surfaces. Choose one with sturdy, large wheels. The tyres need to be made of durable materials that can withstand punctures and offer good grip on slippery roads. Some pushchairs have been designed to be used off-road and come with special suspensions to ensure an enjoyable ride.

Comfort

It's important to find the right pushchair for your child. It's just as ensuring it is padded enough to keep your child secure and comfortable, or a footmuff in order to keep him warm and cosy in the colder months. Many pushchairs come with convertible seats that let you decide whether to face your baby for bonding and comforting or away from them so they can explore the world around them.

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 assist in breathing and lung development. Many pushchairs claim to be able to recline fully but it's crucial to verify that the seat actually offers the lie-flat position and is safe for newborns.

Some pushchairs are lightweight which makes them easy to lift into and out of cars and can be inserted into narrow doorways. Some pushchairs are also able to be able to fit into overhead luggage racks on planes and trains. These pushchairs are typically equipped with a quick and simple fold mechanism, which allows you to collapse it using just one hand. They can also accommodate a carrycot and car seat for infants which makes them suitable for use starting from the time of birth.

Other pushchairs, like the Silver Cross Adorra2 offer a luxurious and high-end design that will turn heads. They are also able to be fitted with a variety of accessories for your child including car seat covers and rain covers. They are designed to be versatile enough to cope with real family life and include the quick and simple to adjust five point safety harness and large puncture proof wheels.

Style

You will probably use your pushchair the most, therefore, you must choose a model that you and your child both love. Consider the details, such as the comfort of the seat padding and whether the handlebar is adjusted in height. There are other small factors that can make a huge difference, such as the basket that can be used to store things or a front wheel lock.

A pram is designed to carry two children at the same time, typically an infant and a toddler. It's smaller than a single pushchair, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and on public transport. It could be a tandem or 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 come with a reclined seat that can be positioned to face toward or away from you. They often have the option to add an infant car seat, carry cot or stroller to allow them to be used from birth until your child turns toddler. This is a great value travel system.

Some pushchairs only have one brake pedal. Others have both the foot brake as well as a hand brake. Both brakes work to stop safely and effectively your pushchair. The foot brake is generally situated on the rear axle and the handbrake is located near the rear wheels at the top of frame. The foot brake is ideal for parents who live on steep slopes or in the country, as it keeps them from losing control of their pushchair.

Size

There are different sizes of pushchairs. Some pushchairs can be used as early as the time of birth, since they come with a lie-flat seat and an attachment to a carrycot or bassinet. Other models can be used once the child is capable of sitting without assistance and is typically from six months. The seat can be set or facing the parents to encourage bonding and reassure them, or away from them to allow them to explore their surroundings.

The size of the wheel is important. Some have larger wheels to improve their ability to maneuver on rough surfaces. Some have smaller wheels that allow for a lighter framework and make it easier to move over paved surfaces.

Some pushchairs come with a single pedal that locks the rear wheels. This is helpful when you want to stop for an afternoon coffee or to go shopping. Some models have two brake pedals that help control and safety. Your pushchair should have reliable brakes as it will be used on rough terrains. Make sure you check the brakes on a regular basis.

There are many features that can help you find the perfect pushchair to suit your family and infant. Features that are easy to use like a one-hand compact fold, easy to adjust safety harnesses or adjustable handlebars can make life with a newborn and young children much easier.

The right pushchair will ensure the security and comfort of your child. You'll likely use this product for a long period of time, so you should consider taking the time to consider the features that are important to your family.

The purchase of a pushchair

Consider carefully what features you want in your pushchair. It will be with you and your child for several years So you must pick wisely. Think about how it will fit into your lifestyle. An all-terrain stroller is great for walking in the countryside but not so great on a shiny store floor. If you plan to use it with your grandparents and your parents, you may want something that they can control and steer without feeling like they require a PhD to operate.

Newborn babies require a flat surface and therefore you'll require an infant car seat with an infant car seat (travel system) or a reclining seat that's suitable from birth. Some models also come with a reversible seat unit so you can have your baby face you or the world as they grow older.

You might also want to consider accessories like baskets, shopping trays and changing bags for the pram to allow you to run errands while your child is in your care. Some pushchairs come with hoods that offer extra protection from the sun, while others have rain covers to keep your baby dry when it begins to rain.

Some pushchairs are convertible so can be used as a single or double and expand with your family, typically by adding an additional seat unit or carrycot. This is a good choice when you're thinking to have another child soon after baby number one or if you're not sure what your plans for the future are just yet.