What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys
Whether you're looking for a pram, pushchair or buggy there are a lot of considerations to make. Consider how much money you can afford, if you want something smaller or larger and how easy the buggy will be to clean.
Look for models that feature a reclining seat with several positions, and a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Make sure they are flat, as this is crucial for your baby's developing spine.
Safety
It is essential to adhere to safety guidelines when you are out with your child in a pushchair or pram. This will ensure that your child is safe and comfortable. Check the triple pushchair or stroller's carriage weight limits to avoid overloading, as this can create instability or damage. Avoid placing pillows or blankets in the pram as they could pose a risk to your child, especially when they suffer an accident. Similarly, don't let older siblings climb on the stroller or pram as this is a potential hazard.
Choose a stroller that has extra padding, particularly in the headrest area, to protect your child against getting hit by objects while out and out and about. It's also a good idea to choose a pushchair with padding on the headrests, since it will help protect your child from bumping into things while out and about.
Some prams and pushchairs have bassinets that allow newborns to lie flat in a cocoon of peace. Some prams and pushchairs have a carrycot that can be removed when your baby is able to sit. Some prams for newborns also have seats that can be switched between the two modes as your baby develops.
Many prams and pushchairs are designed to fold down into smaller sizes when they are not in use, making them easy to store and carry in your car's boot or public transport. It's worth checking how compact travel pram they are when folded, as this can make a difference when you have to squeeze them in small spaces or climb up and down the stairs.
If you intend to use your stroller or pram into rougher terrain, such as fields or parks or even at the beach, it is best to choose a model that has off-road wheels. They are more suitable to these types of environments. Check that the wheels are filled with air as this will make them easier to move over rougher ground and not puncture easily.
A sunshade or a parasol that attaches directly to the frame of your pushchair will shade and guard your child from overheating during sunny days. You can purchase these items separately or as part of an accessory set for your pushchair, with a variety of styles and colors to pick from.
Comfort
A good pram or pushchair is one that is comfortable for your baby and you to push. A soft padded seat liner, adjustable settings that let your newborn to lie flat or stand up slightly (good for those who suffer from reflux) and a large sun canopy are all helpful. Find suspension systems that allow for a smoother ride, as well as a brake system that is responsive so you can stop quickly in the event of an emergency.
Newborns require a fully lie-flat position to support their growing spine and therefore it's essential to make sure your pushchair can do this for the first few months. A majority of frames come with a newborn carrycot, which then switches to the reclining seat when your little one is old enough, which means you can use both the pram and pushchair within the same frame.
It is also important to think about your needs when choosing a pushchair, like whether it's simple to maneuver and what type of storage space you need. It's a good idea to visit a shop where you can test drive different pushchairs or prams to feel how they behave and how they fold. It's also a good idea to look over any accessories you might want, such as a footmuff, seat liner and fans that help your baby to stay cool in summer or warm in winter.
In the end, you'll need to consider the overall style of your pushchair - will it fit your lifestyle and style? You will be using your pushchair for a number of years, so make sure you pick an option that you won't regret.
A lightweight pushchair with puncture-proof tyres, big bouncy suspension and a hood that you can pull down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs, providing just the right balance of comfort for both your child and you. It's elegant and stylish brushed twill, with a faux leather handle and leatherette trims. It has a classic style but is also modern and fresh. It's also very affordable priced and comes with an assortment of useful accessories.
Practicality
The terms pram, pushchair buggy, pram and travel system are frequently used but it's crucial to pick one that is suitable for your requirements and is compatible with your lifestyle. Choose models that fold into smaller dimensions as this will help when transporting on public transport as well as in your car's storage or boot space at home. If you opt for an infant pram or travel system with a separate infant seat, be sure it can be quickly attached to the chassis without waking up your baby.
Many prams have a large storage basket under the seat to help you keep your shopping, bags and nappies close in your hand. They are also usually equipped with swivel wheels which allow them to maneuver and steer in narrow shop aisles, or turn on the spot in crowded areas like beaches and parks. If you intend to use the scooter in the countryside, you might want to choose a model with big all-terrain tires that can handle rough terrain and muddy trails.
A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a traditional pram and the seat can be adjusted to different positions. This is perfect for infants who are able to sit up, or for newborns. A large canopy can shield your toddler or baby from the sun. Some models are also suitable for rain.
Think about how the model weighs and if you are able to carry it safely into the car boot or up the stairs (with or without an infant inside). It is important to consider this especially since they will increase in weight over time. It may be worth paying more for a machine washable cover that makes cleaning up spillages or leaks from nappy nappy easy. You should also test drive any strollers or prams you are considering purchasing to test how they move and feel and also to determine how easy they fold and transport. You may also want to check if the handlebars are comfortable for you to hold.
Cleaning
The quickest method to decrease the chance of mildew and mould is to wash your pushchair frequently. It is essential to wipe down every component of the fabric as soon as they begin to get dirty, and give them a thorough wash every two weeks. Regularly applying a deodoriser or fabric freshener will help keep odours away and stop the accumulation of grime which can cause mould spores to grow.
Before you start to clean your pushchair It's recommended to remove any toys, and to remove any padding or covers that can be removed. This will allow you to clean those difficult-to-access places, such as the hood or canopy. Then, select a space which is well-ventilated and lay down a sheet to protect the floor. This will make cleaning it easy. Finally, it's recommended to use a vacuum cleaner with a flexible nozzle attachment to get rid of any food debris or dirt that may be trapped in the corners and crevices.
If you have a pushchair with removable fabric parts, then begin by checking the manufacturer's care instructions and washing them according to the recommendations (either in the machine or by hand). If you're looking to wash your fabrics in prams you can do so with a solution consisting of warm water, gentle soap or mild detergent. However, it is always recommended to check the fabric's the colorfastness prior to using any cleaning products as certain chemicals can cause damage or bleaching to delicate fabrics.
Add a small amount to the wash to get rid of the stubborn marks and stains. This is an effective stain remover and will lift various types of odours such as ones caused by milk or urine. It also assists in removing any residues of detergent or soap. After you're done, wash the fabric thoroughly to eliminate all soap traces and hang it up to dry. Do this outside, as sunlight is a natural conditioner and disinfectant.