10 Prams Tricks Experts Recommend
What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of push chairs and prams can be confusing. Prams are made to carry newborns and young babies with a lying-flat seat.
Some prams come with a bassinet or carrycot for infants. Some can be converted into an infant pushchair once the baby is older.
If you're planning to use public transport or fold your pushchair frequently pick a light and compact buggy.
Comfort
Alongside bottles and nappies, your pushchair is likely to be one of the most frequently used baby products you own. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure your child is comfortable on every trip by choosing one that has plenty of padding and a comfortable seat that can be adjusted for the height of your child.
It's also worth noting that many prams or buggies are equipped with a fitted pram blanket that can help to keep your child warm. These blankets are easy to wash and come in a range of colours and designs.
A pram is for newborns from 6 months to 6 years of age, when they are still at the point that they must lay flat. Most often, a bassinet, or carrycot, is attached to the frame. Many prams allow the choice of either 'parent' facing or 'world facing. This allows you to choose whether you prefer your child to face you to connect with you, or to explore the sights and sounds of their surroundings. Some prams are able to be converted into a pushchair, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a deluxe single to double pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).
It is important to keep in mind that babies less than six months old shouldn't be carried in a pushchair that doesn't fully recline. This is because travelling in a position that is prone to slumber can impact their breathing because it causes them to breathe more air than normal and can even lead to respiratory issues in the long term.
A pushchair is a chair with wheels that folds usually to a very compact travel stroller size and it's generally geared towards toddlers and older babies until about three years old. These are often made of a more durable material than prams. There are models where you can change the direction that the seat faces so that your child can be reassured by you or turn away to explore the world.
Safety
The safety of your baby in a pushchair or folding pram is vital. Make sure that you place your baby in a pram or pram that is designed for his age and size. This will help them feel secure and safe and help to prevent any accidents. When purchasing a second-hand stroller or pushchair, it is important to perform visual safety checks. This will ensure that it's in good condition and is not damaged in a way that could cause harm to your child.
When you are choosing the right pram or pushchair make sure you choose one with a safety harness which has quick and easy clips and connections. Verify that the buckles aren't loose and that the straps fit comfortably around your baby's waist. Find models that have a larger base as they are more stable than those with a narrow base.
Be careful not to overload your pushchair or pram with items. This can cause it to tip and your baby might fall out. Don't put anything that could hurt your baby in the basket, such as drinks, snacks, and toys.
Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your stroller or pram. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pushchair, make sure to dry it outside thoroughly. This will stop the growth of mould or mildew.
It's a great idea to clean the removable footmuff that comes with your pram shops near me or pushchair before you use it again in winter. It's as simple as taking off the fabric and washing it in cool soapy water, and then allowing it to air dry outdoors. It's also a good idea to brush any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.
Experts recommend that babies lie flat in a pushchair or pram as soon as they can. This will aid their development and reduce back problems later in life.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, retailers and manufacturers are required to supply products that will be safe for normal or reasonably regular use. This is the case for new prams and pushchairs as well as second-hand ones.
Style
Parents may want the most practical set-up of wheels they can find, but many parents also want a pram that is as fashionable as their baby. There are numerous high-end prams and pushchairs that combine high-quality engineering with attractive designs that are both attractive and practical.
The first thing to consider when selecting a pushchair or pram is the padding and adjustable options. Babies can be messy and so having a pushchair that's easy to clean is crucial. This is especially true if you plan to use your pushchair for long walks on rough terrain or over gravel, dirt and cobbles. Choose a stroller with removable seats and recline mechanisms that can be machine washed. Check that the fabric is also breathable, which will help keep your baby dry and comfortable.
It is also important to consider the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow you to change the seat from parent facing (facing the parent to reassure and bond) or even world facing so that your child can explore the world. Some models have this option as well, but it's not a necessity for all models and can be an optional feature.
Combination prams are also referred to as 3 in 1 pram-in-1 prams. They are popular with families due to the fact that they can accommodate bassinet baskets on the same frame. They are made to be used from birth, and are suitable for children as young as six months old.
A travel system is a similar alternative to a combination pram as it allows you to put car seats on the frame too, usually using adaptors. They are perfect for babies and toddlers between birth and three years old. They can be cheaper than buying separate products.
twin pushchair prams or pushchairs are a great option for twin babies or siblings of the same age who require transport in comfort and safety. These are available in many styles and can be fitted either with a single car seat or a double.
Storage
A pram or pushchair should not only be safe and comfortable for your child, but also offer ample storage for all the essentials. Look for models that have an ample shopping basket that can accommodate all of your baby's necessities including spare clothes, changing equipment, water bottles, and snacks. Some include the child's or parent's compartment that is ideal for storing all your personal items. If you're looking for a stroller that is more spacious opt for a model that comes with multiple configurations. The extra space is crucial, especially if you plan to take your child for long walks or away from home.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is maneuverability. Opt for swivel wheels so you can make it easy to navigate narrow passageways and also look for brakes with locking that are able to stop quickly. If you're looking at a lightweight model, ensure it has the right suspension system and foldable dimensions for simple storage and transportation. If you're looking to buy something more robust for off-roading, choose a model that has sturdy all-terrain tires that can handle rougher surfaces.
A pram is designed to offer an easy sleeping position for newborns. A pushchair is more designed for older babies and toddlers who can stand up on their own. Some prams are able to be converted into a pushchair simply by removing the bassinet and replacing it with a seat, and other models like the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one prams that can convert into a car seat or carrycot.
Whatever kind of pushchair or pram you choose, be sure to read reviews online and ask for suggestions from family and friends. Test-drive several options before you make your decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their fold and how they feel. Consider a convertible car, which is suitable for one or two kids. This will save you money as you don't have to purchase an entirely new set of wheels each time your child grows.