11 Ways To Completely Redesign Your Pushchairs
Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport
A pushchair is also known as a stroller, buggy or pram. It's the Swiss knife of baby transportation. From navigating through crowded streets to braving rough terrain, these baby-chariots are designed to conquer all kinds of surfaces.
A good pushchair will offer comfort and safety to your child, convenience to you, and the opportunity for you and your baby to spend time together and play. Read on to find out what to look for when selecting one.
Folding
When selecting a stroller, parents are often concerned about how easy it will be to fold. A true standout is the EeZeFold that has an amazing one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, meaning that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy is also stable when folded, meaning you don't have to worry about your child falling off or being injured during the process.
Some of the smaller folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold down so small that they can be tucked away into the boot of your car, so they're perfect if you're a frequent traveller or have a smaller car boot. Some are day-to-day buggies which require less of space than a standard pushchair but still come with decent features, like a comfortable recline and wheels that are lightweight. They're also typically lightweight enough to be carried by hand, and therefore can be used by Grandma or Grandad in case they need to.
The majority of these pushchairs are targeted towards toddlers and older infants because they can sit up, however some offer a lie-flat seat and the option of adding an infant carrycot, making them suitable from birth. They could also be compatible with travel systems, so you can attach an infant car seat to the frame in just a click.
Although they're not as tiny fold of a travel buggy, the majority of compact pushchairs take up a tiny space when folded with the seat on which is why they're ideal for those who are short on storage space at their home or live in an apartment. They're also lightweight and often have an umbrella to shield them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair in this category can be folded with one hand by pressing the button. It is great for traveling as it is easy to fold. It is also very light, making it easy for you to handle even on rough surfaces. It also has an excellent suspension. The seat can rotate to turn from parent-facing to the world, and the hood can be extended to provide additional protection and protection from the sun.
Convertible
A convertible stroller transforms its form to meet the requirements of families that are growing. It can be used as a single stroller, transform into a double stroller for siblings, and even a triple stroller through the addition of a third seat or ride-along board. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a versatile single to double stroller that can be transformed to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for newborns or two toddler seats or even a third child with adapters.
Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, including the height and recline settings. They should come with large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for moms, dads, or grandmas to push. And because these types of strollers typically have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they should be more sturdy and less likely to fall over when carrying several children or loads of equipment.
Larktale's cross-over stroller/wagon, a first of its kind it includes a single foldable stroller and a wagon. Parents do not have to purchase separate products. It can be converted quickly and easily to a double or single triple stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits, and offers ample seating options with the second seat and pull handle when used in wagon mode. The Larktale is heavier than the other convertibles we have rated top-rated however it is a great maneuverability and can easily handle uphills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage space under the seat. Click here for additional information.
Safety
A quality pushchair will come with many safety features, including five-point harnesses for the infant. The harness should be able to fit over shoulders and around the waist and also between the legs. It is also crucial that the harness doesn't become loose and that it has no places where a child may get their fingers stuck.
Choose the brake that suits your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most common and great if you are likely to stop a lot like when you go shopping. A lot of jogger-style pushchairs come with hand brakes. This is useful if you will be changing your momentum frequently, for example when you run. Some pushchairs have an active handbrake that can activate by pressing a button on the bottom of your foot. This is a great option for parents who will be stopping and starting their pushchairs more frequently. It helps to maintain your balance while still applying the pressure to the wheels.
Verify that the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas with uneven terrain or steep slopes. A wheel that locks in the front of the pushchair can prevent the pushchair from slipping away if you're in a hurry or have a lot of baggage in the rear.
Although it may seem a minor consideration however, the weight of the pushchair is something to keep in mind. Even a small pushchair can become quite heavy when it is loaded with a growing baby and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the item and consider whether you would be capable of lifting it into the car boot and up flights of stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a coffee from a takeaway.
A buggy, pram or pushchair is designed for babies who are able to sit up and prams Travel system is typically used from 6 months. They come with a seat that can face toward you to bond with you and away from you to explore the world. Many pushchairs have adjustable seating positions, handlebars, and other accessories.
Comfort
There are many pushchairs with comfort features that parents enjoy. Some are more suited to rough terrain or city streets than others, and the brake type is also something to take into consideration. For instance, a hand brake is great for, everyday use, whereas an active hand brake found on jogger style pushchairs can be more responsive and easier to use when on adventures.
The ability of your pushchair to allow infants to lie completely flat is one of the most crucial features. It's important to choose a pushchair that has this feature right from birth. This will enable your baby to develop their spine into an upright position. This will allow your baby a relaxing nap or rest, making the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a healthier, happier child.
It's important to choose a pushchair that is compatible with the infant car seat you've selected. This will make it simple to move your child from the car to the pushchair newborn. It will also help keep the child calm and less agitated.
Some pushchairs have an adaptor for car seats, which allows you to quickly connect your car seat. It is possible to use the seat from birth until toddlerhood, and save time and money. Many brands offer a bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot, and adaptors, along with the footmuff in one purchase.
Another important aspect of comfort is a great suspension - particularly on the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when driving on rough terrain or city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your the baby in a comfortable position.
Other features for comfort that you may want to look out for include a spacious shopping basket (or even a separate bag), reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat and a the hood that is ventilated. All of these features can help you navigate around town or the country and ensure that your child has the best possible rest for the longest nap possible.
