10 Things That Everyone Doesn t Get Right About The Word "Prams"
What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of prams and push chairs can be confusing. Prams have a flat, padded seat that is specifically designed to be used by babies and newborns.
Some prams come with an infant bassinet or carrycot that is suitable for infants. Some can be converted to a pushchair when the baby is older.
If you plan on using public transportation or have to fold up your pushchair regularly choose a light and compact buggy.
Comfort
Alongside bottles and nappies, your pushchair will be one of the most frequently used baby items you own. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable during every trip by selecting a model with plenty of padding and an ergonomic seat that can be adjusted to height.
It's important to note that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a fitted triple pram blanket that helps to keep your child warm. They can be popped in the wash and are available in a range of different colours and designs to suit your preferences.
A pram is specifically designed for infants up to about six months old, as they're in the stage of development in which they have to lay flat, usually with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. Most prams will offer a choice of facing the parents and the world facing', so you can choose to have your baby's face facing you to bond or let them explore the sights and sounds around them. Some prams are convertible into pushchairs. For instance, the iCandy Peach 7 – a deluxe single-to-double pushchair that can be used from birth using a carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg with elevators).
The most important thing to keep in mind is that very young babies shouldn't be using any pushchair that does not recline to a fully flat position. Traveling in a crouching position can impact their breathing as they breathe in more air than normal. This can lead to respiratory issues in the long term.
A pushchair is a seat that folds into a compact size. It's designed for older babies and toddlers. They're usually made of an extra durable material than a pram, and you can typically find models that allow you to change the direction of the seat so that your child can either face you for reassurance or away from you so they can explore the world around them.
Safety
It is essential to ensure that your baby is secure in a pushchair or pram. You should only ever put your child in a pram or pushchair that has been designed for their age and size. This will make them feel safe and secure and will help prevent accidents. If you're purchasing a pushchair or pram second-hand it is essential to carry out visual safety checks. This will ensure that the item is in good working order and isn't damaged in any way that could pose a risk for your child.
When you are choosing a pram or pushchair, look for one with a safety harness which has easy and quick clips and connections. Verify that the buckles do not have any looseness and that the straps are secure around the torso of your baby. Also, look for a wide base, as this will give more stability than models with narrow bases.
Be careful not to overload your pram or pushchair with items. This could cause it to tip and your baby may fall out. Similarly, don't put things in the storage basket that could fall out and harm your baby - this includes toys, drinks and food items.
Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean your pram sets or pushchair. Whether you're cleaning the fabric or cleaning the hood, be sure to dry it thoroughly outdoors to avoid any mildew or mould from developing.
If your pram or pushchair has a removable footmuff, it's a good idea to wash it prior to using it again in winter. It's as simple as removing the fabric and washing it in cool soapy water, then leaving it to air dry outside. It's also an excellent idea to scrub any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.
Experts suggest that infants lie flat as soon as possible in a pushchair or pram. This will help their development and lessen back problems later on in life.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, both retailers and manufacturers are required to provide products that are safe for normal or reasonably predictable use. This applies to new prams and pushchairs as well as second-hand ones.
Style
Some parents want the most functional set-up of wheels they can get, but many parents also require a stroller newborn that is as fashionable as their infant. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality pushchairs and prams on the market that blend high-end engineering with attractive designs that are as attractive as they are practical.
When choosing a pram or pushchair, the first thing you need to think about is the seat padding. A pushchair that is easy to clean is essential for infants, who can be messy. This is true especially in the event that you plan to take your stroller on long walks over rough terrain, or over dirt and gravel. Look for a pushchair that has removable seat covers and recline mechanism that can be washed in the machine. Check that the fabric can be washed by machine to keep your baby dry and comfortable.
Another thing to think about is the direction that your baby will be facing in their pushchair. The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow you to switch the seat from parent facing (facing towards the parent to provide reassurance and bonding) or facing the world so that they can discover the world around them. Some prams have this option too but it's not necessary for all models and may be an optional feature.
Combination prams, also referred to as 3-in-1 prams, are a popular option for families because they can accommodate the bassinet basket as well as an infant seat on the same frame. They are usually designed for use from birth and are suitable for newborns as young as six months old.
A travel system is a similar option to a combination pram, as it permits the fitting of car seats on the frame too, usually by using adaptors. They are an excellent choice for babies and toddlers until three years old and can be more affordable than buying separate products.
Twin prams or pushchairs prams are a great option for twin babies or siblings of similar age who require transportation in safety and comfort. They are available in a variety of styles and equipped with a double or single car seat.
Storage
A pushchair or pram must not only be safe and comfortable for your child, but should also provide ample storage space for all the essentials. Look for models with a large shopping basket to contain all your baby's necessities like spare clothes, changing equipment, bottles of water, and snacks. Some models have a compartment for the child or parent that is ideal to keep your personal belongings. If you're looking for a pushchair with more storage opt for a model that comes with different configurations. The extra space is important if you're planning on take your child on long walks or trips away from home and require an area to store anything you'll need.
Another key feature to consider is maneuverability. Select swivel wheels to navigate narrow passageways easily. Also look for brakes that are locked that have a receptive stopping power. If you're considering a lightweight model, ensure it comes with the correct suspension system and foldable dimensions for simple storage and transport. If you're looking for something more robust for off-road use, select a model with tough, all-terrain tires that can be able to handle the rougher terrain.
The primary difference between a pram versus a pushchair is that a pushchair offers the option of a lying-flat sleep position for infants, while pushing chairs are more suited to older babies and toddlers who can sit up on their own. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs by taking out the bassinet and replacing it with an adult seat. Other models, like the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle are able to convert into a carrycot, or car seat.
Whichever type of pram or pushchair you choose, be sure to read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends and family. Test-drive several options before making a final decision. This will provide you with an idea of their weight, their folding capabilities and how they feel. You might also want to think about whether a convertible model is the best option for you, as these can be used interchangeably between two babies, and you can save money on purchasing an entirely new set wheels each time your child gets older!
