What to Look For in Pushchairs

A pushchair is a secure mode of transport for your child. They are also comfortable and provide an enjoyable ride.

Consider purchasing a parasol to protect your child from the sun. Most pushchairs come with one however, if not the brands will offer it as an accessory.

If you're planning on the birth of a second child take a look at the possibility of a convertible pushchair that could transform into a double. Some travel systems have an infant carry cot or seat unit.

Safety

It is essential that your pushchair is safe as it's your baby's safe place when on the road. All prams, strollers, coaches and buggies must comply with British standard BS7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003. A reputable brand should display this certification on their product's information.

A five-point harness is vital for the safety of your baby. It should fit snugly over their shoulders, around their waists and between their legs. Check that the buckles are easy to clip together and undo and ensure that the straps are secure connections.

Check that the brakes on your pushchair are easy to access and are working as they should. It's also worthwhile to invest in a reflective strip for your pushchair, which will help other road users see your child and you during the winter's dark and gloomy days.

If your pushchair can hold two children, make sure that the footrests run across both seats. This will prevent children from getting their feet caught between the footrests, and potentially falling out of the pushchair.

All pushchairs, prams and buggys have a weight limit. This limit is important to know prior using the pushchair. A child with a heavy weight can cause the device to be unstable.

A quality pushchair must be able to endure being pushed over a wide range of surfaces. So make sure you choose a model with large, solid wheels. The tyres need to be made of a durable material that can withstand punctures and provide excellent grip on slippery roads. Some pushchairs are designed for off-road use and have specially designed suspensions to provide an even more comfortable ride.

Comfort

It is essential to choose the right pushchair for your child. It's just as ensuring that it is padded enough to ensure your child is safe and safe, or a footmuff in order to keep him warm and cosy in the colder months. Many pushchairs have reversible seating that let you decide if you want to face your child to bond or reassuring, or away from them to explore the world.

For parents who are new it's a good idea to look for a baby stroller that has a seat that can lie flat. Experts suggest that newborns rest in a flat position for the first few months in order to help in the development of their lungs and breathing. Many pushchairs claim to recline fully, however it is important to confirm that the seat is actually able to offer an upright position that is safe for babies.

Some pushchairs are light and easy to carry into and out of cars and can be inserted into narrow doorways. They may also be able to fit into overhead luggage racks on planes and trains. These kinds of pushchairs typically come with a simple and quick fold mechanism that allows you to fold the frame down with one hand. They can also accommodate a carrycot and infant car seat making them suitable for use starting from the time of birth.

Other pushchairs, like the Silver Cross Adorra2, offer a more luxurious and high-end experience, with a stunning design that will turn heads. They can also be outfitted with a range of accessories for your baby like car seat covers and rain covers. They are designed to be flexible enough to handle the daily family life and include a quick-and-easy to adjust the five-point safety harness as well as large, puncture proof wheels.

Style

You'll probably use your pushchair most often, so it is important to choose one that you and your child both enjoy. It's worth taking time to consider the finer details like how comfortable the seat padding is and whether the handlebar has the ability to adjust the height. There are plenty of additional little things that make a difference, such as an extra storage basket or front wheel lock.

A pram is designed to carry two children at the same time, typically a toddler and baby. It's smaller than a pushchair and easier to maneuver in tight spaces or on public transport. It can be a tandem or a single-seater in which the child is seated behind their parent.

Both pushchairs and prams can be used from birth but they're primarily aimed at older babies as they are more spacious than buggies and have an adjustable seat which can face either away from you. There is often the option to add an infant car seat, carry cot or stroller, so that they can be used from birth until your child becomes a toddler. This is a great value travel pushchair system.

Some pushchairs only have one brake pedal. Some have both the foot brake as well as hand brake. Both brakes work to stop safely and easily your pushchair. The foot brake is typically located on a pushchair's rear axle, while the handbrake is situated near the rear wheels on the top of frame. The foot brake is great for parents who are on a slope or in the countryside since it can prevent the parent from losing control of the pushchair.

Size

There are different sizes of pushchairs. Some are suitable from birth, as they come with a seat that is flat and a bassinet or carrycot attachment. Some can be utilized as soon as the child is able to stand up on their own and is typically about 6 months. They can sit facing towards parents for bonding and reassurance or away from them to allow them to discover their surroundings.

The size of the wheels is an a crucial factor. Some have larger wheels for better manoeuvrability over rougher surfaces. Some have smaller wheels that permit a lighter frame and are easier to push across smooth surfaces.

Some pushchairs come with a single pedal that locks the rear wheels. This is helpful in the event that you need to stop for a coffee break or go shopping. Some have two brakes pedals to improve control and safety. Your pushchair needs to have strong brakes as they will be used on rough terrains. Check the brakes regularly.

There are many features that can aid you in choosing the perfect pushchair that will meet the needs of your family and baby. Features that are easy to use like a one-hand compact fold, simple to adjust safety harnesses or adjustable handlebars make life with newborns and small children a lot easier.

Choosing the right pushchair is an investment in the safety and comfort of your baby or toddler. It's likely to be the baby product you'll be using for a long time, so it's worth taking the time to consider what features are important to you and your family.

A pushchair to buy

Think carefully about the features you want in your pushchair. It will be with you and your child for a long time So you must pick wisely. It's important to think about how it will work with your lifestyle - an all-terrain pushchair is perfect for a stroll in the country, but it won't be great on shiny floors in shops! If you're planning to use it with your grandparents, you may need something that is simple for them to steer and control without feeling like they need an academic degree.

Newborn babies must lie flat, so you'll need a pushchair with a carrycot or infant car seat (travel system) or a reclining seat that's suitable from birth. Some models also come with a seat that can be reversible so you can decide to have your baby face you or world facing as they get older.

When selecting a pushchair, you may also wish to look at accessories like shopping trays and baskets or pram changing bags which can make it easier to run errands with your little one in the car. Some pushchairs come with hoods that provide extra sun protection and some have rain covers to ensure that your baby stays dry when it begins to drizzle.

Some pushchairs are convertible so can be used as a double or a single and grow with your family by adding an additional seat unit or carrycot. This is a good option for those who know they're planning on having another child shortly after baby number one or in case you're not sure of what your plans for the future are just yet.