What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys

If you're in the market for a pram, pushchair or a buggy there are a lot of things to think about. Think about how much you'll need to spend for a product, if you're looking for something smaller or larger and how easy the buggy is to clean.

Look for models that feature an reclining seat that has several positions, and a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Check that they are completely flat, as this is crucial to the development of the spine of your baby.

Safety

It is essential to adhere to safety guidelines when you are out with your baby in a pram or pushchair. This will ensure that your child is safe and comfortable. Avoid overloaded strollers or pushchair to prevent damage or instability. Avoid placing any blankets or pillows in the pram because they could pose a risk for your baby especially when there is an accident. Don't allow older siblings to climb onto the stroller or pram as this can be a hazard.

It's also a good idea to look for a stroller with additional padding, particularly in the area of the headrest, as this will help to keep your child safe from bumping into things whilst out and about. A parent facing mode is also a good option as it allows it to be quick and easy for you to monitor your baby and keep them happy and comfortable.

Some pushchairs and prams come with the bassinet attachment, which is perfect for babies to lie on their backs, cocooned and comfortable. Others will have an infant carrycot that can be removed when your baby is old enough to sit up. Some prams also have seats that can be changed between these two types as your child develops.

Many pushchairs or prams can be folded down to a compact travel stroller size when they are not being used. This makes them easier to put in the car boot or transport on public transport. Check how compact they are folded. This can be a huge difference when you need to fit them into tight spaces or up and over the stairs.

If you're planning to take your pram or pushchair into more difficult terrain like fields, parks, or even on beaches, it is recommended to find an off-road model because they are better suited to these kinds of environments. Make sure the wheels are air-filled as this will make them easier to maneuver over rough terrain and will not easily puncture.

A parasol or sunshade that is attached directly to the frame of your pushchair will shade and protect your baby from overheating on hot days. They can be purchased as a separate item or as an entire set of accessories for your pushchair. There are a variety of styles and colours available.

Comfort

A quality pushchair or pram should be comfortable for both your baby and you to push. A comfortable, cushioned seat liner with adjustable settings to allow your newborn to lay flat or stand up slightly (good for those who suffer from reflux) and a wide sun canopy are all useful. Look for suspension that makes the ride smooth and a receptive brake system so you can stop quickly if needed.

Newborns require a flat, fully lying position to support their growing spines It's crucial to make sure your pushchair is able to do this for the first few months. Many frames come with a newborn carrycot which can be changed to the reclining seat when your baby is old enough, which means you can put a pram and a pushchair in the same frame.

When you're choosing a pram, you'll need to think about your requirements, including how easy it is to maneuver and how much storage space you require. It's a good idea to visit a shop that lets you test drive various prams or pushchairs to feel how they behave and how they fold. Also, you should look into any accessories that you may require, such as an armband or a seat liner, to keep your baby cool during the summer and warm in the winter.

In the end, you'll need to think about the overall look of your stroller - does it match your personality and lifestyle? You'll be using your pushchair for a number of years, so pick a colour or print that you will be happy with.

A lightweight pushchair with puncture-proof tyres that are big and bouncy, suspension and a hood that you can pull down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs, providing the perfect balance of comfort for both your child and you. With a stylish and sophisticated brushed twill fabric with faux-leather handles and leatherette trims that have a traditional appearance, but is also fresh and modern. It's also very affordable priced and comes with an assortment of useful accessories.

Practicality

The terms triple pushchair, pram buggy, pram and travel stroller system (Suggested Reading) are often used interchangeably but it's important to select one that meets your needs and your lifestyle. You'll be able to move around on public transportation and in your car, or at home if you choose models that fold. If you opt for an infant pram or travel strollers system with a separate infant seat, ensure that it can be easily snapped onto the chassis without disturbing your baby.

Many prams come with a large storage basket under the seat to allow you to keep your shopping bags, nappies, and bags at fingertips. They are also usually equipped with swivel wheels that make them easy to manoeuvre and maneuver through narrow store aisles, or change direction in crowded areas like parks and beaches. If you plan to use it in the country, you may want to choose an all-terrain model with big tyres which can cope with rough terrain and muddy trails.

A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a traditional pram, and the seat can be adjusted to different positions. This is perfect for infants who are able to sit up or for newborns. They usually have a large canopy that will provide your toddler or baby protection from the sun, and some models might also be suitable to use in the rain.

Consider how heavy the model is and then consider if you are able to comfortably lift it in and out of your car's storage area or up the stairs to your home (with or without your child inside!) They'll get heavier as time passes. It's worth purchasing a cover that is machine washable for easy cleaning of spilled liquids or nappy messes. You should also test-drive any strollers or prams you're thinking of buying to test how they move and feel as well as to see how easy they fold up and move around. You may also want to determine if the handlebars are comfortable to grip too.

Cleaning

The quickest method to decrease the risk of mildew and mould is to clean your pushchair regularly. This includes cleaning any fabric components as soon as they are dirty and giving them a full wash every two weeks or as often. Using a regular application of a fabric freshener or deodoriser will help eliminate odours and help prevent the build-up of grime that can lead to mould spores.

Before you begin cleaning your pushchair, it's an ideal idea to remove any toys and remove any padding or covers that you can remove. This will make it easier for you to clean the difficult-to-reach areas, like the hood or canopy. Then, select a space that is well ventilated and lay down sheets to protect the floor. This will make cleaning it easy. Use a vacuum with a flexible nozzle to remove any food particles or dirt that might have gotten stuck in the crevices and corners.

If your pushchair has removable fabric sections, check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions and wash them according to the directions (either by hand or by washing in a machine). If you're looking to wash most fabrics in prams, you can use a solution made of warm water, gentle soap or mild detergent. However, it is always advisable to spot examine the fabric for the colorfastness prior to using any cleaning products as some chemicals can bleach or damage delicate fabrics.

Add a small amount to the wash to get rid of stubborn stains and marks. This is a potent stain remover and can lift many types of odours, such as ones caused by urine or milk. It also assists in removing any soap or detergent residues. After you've finished, wash the fabric thoroughly to get rid of any soap residue, and hang it to dry. It is best to do this outdoors since sunlight acts as a natural fabric softener and a gentle disinfectant.