What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams are designed to transport infants and toddlers with a lie-flat seat.

Prams are also available with a carrycot or bassinet for infants. Some can be converted to a pushchair when the baby is older.

If you are planning to use public transportation or have to fold your pushchair frequently, opt for a lightweight and compact stroller.

Comfort

Your pushchair will probably be more frequently used than your bottles and nappies. It is essential to select one that has plenty of padding, a comfortable seat and can be adjusted to the height.

It's important to note that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a fitted pram blanket that can help to keep your child warm. They can be easily put in the wash and are available in a range of colors and designs to fit your personal style.

A pram is designed for infants up to about six months old, while they're still at the stage that they must lay flat, usually with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. Many prams allow the choice of 'parent ' or 'world facing. This allows you to decide if you prefer your child to face you to bond with you, or to explore the sights and sounds of their environment. Some prams are able to be converted into pushchairs, like the iCandy Peach 7 - a premium single-to-double pram and pushchair pushchair that is suitable from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).

The most important thing to be aware of is that infants and toddlers shouldn't be using any pushchair that does not recline completely to a flat position. A crouching position can affect their breathing as they breathe more than normal. This could lead to respiratory problems in the long run.

A pushchair is a seat that can be folded into a small space. It's made for older babies and toddlers. They're often made from an extra durable material than a pram. You can usually find models that let you change the direction of the seat so that your child can either face you for reassurance or away from you so they can explore the world around them.

Safety

It is important to ensure that your child is safe in a pushchair or pram. You should only ever put your child in a pram or pushchair that has been made for their age and size. This will make them feel safe and secure, and prevent accidents. When buying a second-hand stroller or pushchair it is essential to perform visual safety checks. This will ensure that the item is in good condition and not 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 with a safety harness which has quick and easy clips and connections. Check that the buckles are not loose and that the straps fit comfortably around your baby's waist. Also, look for a wide base, which will offer more stability than narrow-based models.

Avoid overloading your pram or pushchair with toys. This could cause it to tip and your baby may be thrown out. Do not put anything that can harm your baby in the basket, including drinks, snacks, or toys.

Make sure you follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean your pushchair or pram. When cleaning the fabric or cleaning the hood, make sure you dry it thoroughly outside to prevent mildew or mould forming.

If your pushchair or pram has a removable footmuff it's a good idea to wash it prior to using it again in winter. You can do this by taking the fabric off and washing it in soapy water, then leaving it to air dry outdoors. You should also scrub any dirt or mud that has accumulated on the wheels and axles.

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

Retailers and manufacturers have an obligation under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to supply products that are safe to use in normal or reasonably foreseeable use. This applies to new and second-hand prams as well as strollers.

Style

While some parents are after the most functional set of wheels that they have access to, many want an infant stroller or pushchair that is as stylish as their brand new bundle of joy. There are many high-quality prams and pushchairs on the market that combine high-quality engineering with attractive designs that are both attractive and practical.

The first thing to think about when choosing a pushchair or pram is the padding and adjustability options. Babies can be messy creatures and so having a pushchair that is easy to clean is essential. This is especially important in the event that you plan to take long walks in rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Choose a stroller with removable recline and seat covers which can be washed in the machine. Make sure the fabric is also breathable, which will help keep your baby dry and comfortable.

You should also consider the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow you to switch the seat from parent facing (facing towards the parent to provide reassurance and bonding) or facing the world to allow your child to explore the world around them. Some pushchairs offer this feature too but it's not a necessity for all models and can only be an optional extra.

Combination prams, also known as 3-in-1 prams, are an increasingly popular option for families because they can accommodate an infant basket and a pushchair seat on the same frame. They are typically designed for use from birth and are suitable for newborns from 6 months to.

A travel system is a similar alternative to a combination pram as it allows you to put a car seat onto the frame, often with adaptors. They are ideal for infants and toddlers up to three years old. They can be cheaper than buying separate items.

Twin prams and pushchairs can be the ideal option for siblings or twins who want to travel in the comfort and safety of. They come in a variety of styles and are able to be fitted either with a single car seat or a double one.

Stores

As well as offering security and comfort for your little one the pram or pushchair must provide ample storage space for the most essential items. Find models with large shopping baskets that can accommodate everything your baby needs including spare clothes as well as changing gear as well as bottles of water and snacks. Some models come with a compartment for the parent or child which is ideal for storing your personal items. If you're looking for a stroller with more storage, choose a pushchair newborn with various configurations. Extra space is important especially if you want to take your child for long walks or away from home.

Maneuvrability is an additional feature to take into consideration. Select swivel wheels to get around narrow spaces easily. Also, look for locking brakes that have a receptive stopping power. If you are looking at a lightweight model, ensure that it has the appropriate suspension system and foldable dimensions to facilitate storage and transportation. If you're looking for something more durable for off-road travel then select a model with robust all-terrain tires that can handle rougher surfaces.

The main difference between a pram versus a pushchair is that a pram offers an easy, flat sleeping position for infants, while pushing chairs are more suited to older babies and toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some prams convert into pushchairs, by removing the bassinet, and replacing it with an adult's seat. Other models like the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle can transform into a carrycot or car seat.

If you're not sure which type of pushchair or pram to pick check out online reviews and ask your friends and family for recommendations. If you are able, test-drive a few models prior to making your choice to get an idea of how they feel, how they fold, and how heavy they are. You may also want think about whether a convertible model is the best option for you, because they can be used interchangeably between two children and save money on buying an entirely new set of wheels each time your little one grows up!