What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of push chairs and prams can be confusing. Prams have a flat seat that is specifically designed to be used by infants and babies.
Some prams come with an infant bassinet or carrycot that is suitable for infants. Some even have the option of being converted into an infant pushchair.
If you plan on using public transportation or have to fold up your pushchair regularly, opt for a lightweight and compact pushchair.
Comfort
Your pushchair is likely to get used more than your nappies and bottles. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable during every outing by choosing one with plenty of padding and a comfortable seat that can be adjusted to height.
It's worth noting that a lot of prams and buggies also come with a fitted pram blanket that helps to keep your child warm. These can be easily popped into the washing machine and are available in a range of designs and colours to suit your preference.
A pram is designed for infants from 6 months to 6 years of age, when they are still at a stage where they require to lie flat. Most often, a carrycot, or bassinet, is attached to the frame. The majority of prams have the option of 'parent facing or 'world facing. This enables you to decide if you want your baby to face you to bond with you, or explore the sights and sounds of their environment. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a luxurious double-sized pushchair that is suitable from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).
The most important thing to keep in mind is that very young babies should not be in any pushchair that doesn't recline to a completely flat position. A crouching position can affect their breathing as they inhale more than they would normally. This could cause breathing problems in the long run.
A pushchair is a chair on wheels that folds typically, to a small size, and is generally designed towards older babies and toddlers until about three years old. They're usually made of an extra durable material than a pram and you can typically find models that let you switch the direction of the seat so that your child can either face towards you for reassurance or away from you so they can explore the world around them.
Safety
The safety of your child in a pram or pushchair is essential. You should only ever place your child in a pram or pushchair that has been made for their size and age. This will ensure that they feel secure and safe and prevent accidents. When purchasing a second-hand stroller or pushchair, it is important to conduct a visual safety check. This will ensure it is in good condition and not damaged in any way that could cause harm to your baby.
When choosing a pram or pushchair, choose one that has a safety harness that is simple and fast clips. Make sure that the buckles do not have any slack and that the straps are snug around the torso of your baby. Also, look for a wide base, which will provide greater stability than models with narrow bases.
Beware of overloading your pushchair and pram with items. This could cause the pushchair to tip over, and your baby could be thrown out. Don't put anything that could hurt your baby in the basket, including drinks, snacks, and toys.
Follow the directions given by the manufacturer when cleaning your stroller or pram. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, be sure you dry it outside thoroughly. This will prevent mildew or mould from developing.
If your pram or triple pushchair has a removable footmuff, it's best to wash it before using it again in winter. It's as simple as taking off the fabric and washing it with cool soapy water, and then allowing it to air dry outside. It's also a good idea to brush any dirt or mud off of the wheels and axles.
Experts advise that babies lie flat in a pushchair or pram as soon as they can. This will aid their development and decrease the chance of developing back problems as they grow older.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, both retailers and manufacturers are required to offer products that are safe for normal or regular use. This is applicable to both new and second-hand prams and strollers.
Style
Some parents want the most functional set-up of wheels they can get, but many parents also require a stroller that is as fashionable as their baby. There are many high-quality prams and pushchairs available that combine high-end engineering with stylish designs that are both attractive and practical.
When selecting the right pushchair or pram the first thing you need to consider is the seat padding. Babies can be messy creatures and having a pram that is easy to clean is essential. This is particularly true in the event that you plan to take your stroller on long walks over rough terrain, or on dirt and gravel. Find a pushchair that has removable seat covers and recline mechanisms that can be machine washed. Make sure the fabric can be washed by machine to keep your baby dry and comfortable.
You should also think about the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. Most pushchairs with a "from-birth" feature allow you to change the seat from parent facing (facing the parent to calm and bond) or even world facing so that they can explore the world. Some prams have this option, however it's not required for all models.
Combination prams are referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families due to the fact that they can accommodate an infant bassinet on the same frame. They are typically designed to be used starting at birth and are suitable for newborns as young as six months old.
A travel system is similar to a combination stroller in that it permits the attachment of a car seat to the frame using adaptors. These are a great option for toddlers and babies from 3 years old and can be cheaper than purchasing separate products.
twin pushchair prams or pushchairs are excellent option for twins or siblings of the same age who require transportation in safety and comfort. They come in a variety of styles and can be fitted with one car seat or a double.
Stores
A pram or pushchair sale should not only be safe and comfortable for your child, but offer ample storage for all the essentials. Look for models with large shopping baskets that can hold all your baby supplies, including spare clothes as well as changing gear, bottles of water and snacks. Some models include a separate compartment for the parent or child that is ideal for storing your personal items. If you're looking for a pushchair with additional storage, opt for a convertible pushchair that offers various configurations. Extra space is crucial if you plan to take your baby on long walks or trips away from home and require a place to store everything you'll need.
Another key feature to consider is maneuverability. Select swivel wheels to navigate through narrow passageways with ease. Also look for brakes that are locked that have a receptive stopping power. If you're looking at a lighter model, make sure it has the correct dimensions for suspension and folding to make it easy to transport and store. Alternatively, if you want something more robust for off-road use, select one with sturdy all-terrain wheels that are able to cope with rougher surfaces than pavements.
A pram is designed to provide a flat sleeping position for newborns. A pushchair is more designed for older babies and toddlers that can sit independently. Some prams can be transformed into a pushchair by removing the bassinet and replacing it with a seat, while other models such as the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one prams that convert into an automobile seat or a carrycot.
Whatever type of pushchair or pram pushchair you choose, be sure to read reviews online and seek recommendations from friends and family. If possible, test-drive several models before making a decision. This will give you an idea of how they feel and fold, and how heavy they are. Consider a convertible car which is suitable for one or two children. This will save you money since you won't need to buy an entirely new set of wheels every time your child grows.