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What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of push chairs and prams can be confusing. Prams are designed to transport newborns and young babies with a lying-flat seat.
Some prams include a bassinet or carrycot for newborns. Some can be converted to an infant pushchair once the baby is older.
If you plan to travel by public transport or fold your pushchair regularly opt for a lightweight and compact stroller pushchair.
Comfort
Your pushchair is likely to get utilized more often than your bottles and nappies. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable on every trip by choosing one that has plenty of padding and an upholstered seat that can be adjusted to height.
It's worth noting that a lot of prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a pram blanket that can help to keep your child warm. These can be easily popped in the wash and are available in a variety of colors and designs to fit your personal style.
A pram is suitable for babies up to six months of age, and they are still at the stage 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 enables you to choose whether you prefer your child to face you in order to bond with you, or explore the sights and sounds in their environment. Some prams convert into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 – a premium single-to-double pushchair which can be used as early as birth with the carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg with elevators).
It is important to remember that infants less than six months old shouldn't be carried in a stroller that doesn't fully recline. 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 future.
A pushchair is a chair on wheels that folds, typically, to a small size, and is generally designed towards toddlers and older babies until approximately three years old. They're typically constructed from a more durable material compared to prams. You can also find models that let you alter the direction in which the seat faces so that your child can be reassured by you or turn away to explore the world.
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 made for their size and age. This will make them feel safe and secure and help to prevent any accidents. If you're buying a baby pushchair or pram second-hand it is essential to conduct visual safety inspections. This will ensure it's in good condition, and is not damaged in a way that could cause harm to your child.
When choosing a pram or pushchair make sure you choose one with an safety harness with simple and fast clips. Check that the buckles are not loose and that the straps are snugly around the waist of your child. Choose a model with a larger base since they are more stable than those with a smaller base.
Beware of overloading your pushchair and pram with toys. This can cause it to tip and your baby might be thrown out. Be careful not to put anything that could harm your baby in the basket, including drinks, snacks, or toys.
Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your pram or stroller. Whether you're cleaning the fabric or cleaning the hood, be sure to dry it thoroughly outside to prevent mildew or mould forming.
If your pushchair or pram features a footmuff that is removable, it's a good idea wash it before you use it again in winter. This can be accomplished by taking the fabric off and washing it in cool water with soap, and then letting it air dry outside. You should also brush off any dirt or mud from the axles and wheels.
Experts suggest that babies lay flat in a pushchair or pram as early as they can. This will help their development and help reduce back pain later in life.
Retailers and manufacturers have obligations under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to provide products that are safe to use in normal or reasonably foreseeable use. This applies to new prams and pushchairs as well as second-hand ones.
Style
While some parents are after the most practical set of wheels they can get their hands on most parents would prefer a pram or pushchair that is as stylish as their brand new baby. There are many high-quality prams and pushchairs that combine high-quality engineering with attractive designs that are both attractive and practical.
When selecting a pram or pushchair the first thing to think about is the seat padding. A pushchair that is simple to clean will be important for babies, who can be messy. This is especially true if you intend to take your stroller on long walks on rough terrain, or over dirt and gravel. Search for a pushchair that includes removable seat covers as well as a recline mechanisms that can be machine-washed. Make sure the fabric is also breathable to help keep your baby dry and comfortable.
You should also think about 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 towards the parent to provide reassurance and bonding) or facing the world so that they can explore the world around them. Some prams have this option, but it may not be a requirement for all models.
Combination prams, also referred to as 3-in-1 prams, are a popular option for families since they can fit both the bassinet basket as well as an infant seat on the same frame. They are often designed for use from birth and are suitable for newborns from 6 months to.
A travel system is a similar option to a combination pram, as it permits the fitting of a car seat onto the frame too, usually by using adaptors. They are perfect for babies and toddlers up to three years old and are less expensive than purchasing separate items.
Twin top prams or pushchairs are great option for twin stroller babies or siblings of the same age who both require transportation in safety and comfort. They are available in a variety of styles and can be equipped with a single or double car seat.
Storage
In addition to providing safety and comfort to your little one, a pram or pushchair should provide ample storage for all the essentials. Look for models that have a spacious shopping basket that can accommodate all your baby supplies including spare clothing as well as changing gear, bottles of water and snacks. Some models have a compartment for the child or parent which is ideal to keep your personal belongings. If you're looking for a pram with more storage space consider a convertible pushchair that offers various configurations. It's important to have extra space particularly if you intend to take your child on long walks or leave home.
Maneuvrability is a further aspect to take into consideration. Pick swivels wheels that can get around narrow spaces easily. Also, look for locking brakes that have a receptive stopping power. If you are looking at an ultra-lightweight model, make sure it comes with the correct suspension system and foldable stroller dimensions to facilitate storage and transportation. If you're looking for something that's more robust for off-road use, pick a model with tough all-terrain tires that are able to handle rougher surfaces.
A pram is designed to provide a flat sleeping position for newborns. A pushchair is better suited for older babies and toddlers that can stand up on their own. Some prams can be transformed to a pushchair by taking out the bassinet and replacing it with a seat while other models, such as the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one prams that be converted into an automobile seat or a carrycot.
If you're not sure which type of pram or pushchair to choose look up online reviews and ask friends and family members for recommendations. If you can, test drive several models before making your choice to get an impression of how they feel and fold, and how heavy they are. You might also want to consider whether a convertible model is the right choice for you, since these can be used interchangeably between two babies, and you can save money on buying an entirely new set of wheels each time your little one grows older!