Blogs
on July 10, 2024
Buying a Pushchair Stroller
A good pushchair stroller should be easy to use. Choose a stroller which is simple to operate, features a parking break that's easy to set and release, and that can stand up without having to hold it.
Some pushchairs are able to convert into a double and have separate seat and carrycot units to accommodate your growing family. Find a hood that has SPF/UPF50+ and a parasol.
Comfort
It is essential that the pushchair is comfortable for you and your child. Make sure that the seat padding is suitable for your child, and that the adjustable handlebars are comfortable for you to use. You may also wish to consider the recline mechanism. Some offer several positions, while others only have a flat position suitable for newborns.
Different manufacturers employ different terminology to describe their products, but generally speaking a pram is designed to be used by newborns and toddlers, whereas a pushchair and stroller are made for older infants and toddlers. Prams are more traditional and come with a larger frames. Strollers tend to be smaller and lighter. Prams are often converted into an infant stroller seat, so you can continue to use them as your child develops.
Many people opt to use a pram for their newborn baby since it is a spacious carrycot that allows the infant to lay flat and in a bed like environment. This is ideal for travelling and naps. They can be set up to be orientated either towards the parent or to be orientated towards the world which makes them perfect for parents who want to keep their baby in sight throughout their journeys.
If your baby's pram doesn't have a lie-flat option, you should consider investing in a carrycot that can be connected to your pram's chassis. They allow your baby to sleep in a fully flat position, which is vital for healthy spinal and lung development.
A pushchair or stroller should be a breeze to maneuver and should have a light, sturdy frame that's well built and designed for smooth surfaces. Test out a friend’s pushchair to see how it drives and whether you can easily turn it around and maneuver it around tight turns. It is recommended to select a one-handed steering system, that allows you to carry your shopping bags and the handlebars.
Strollers are generally designed to be lighter and more compact than prams, and can fold easily to store and transport. They are best suited for long distances and jogging. Some models come with additional features such as sunshades, cup holders, or hoods that can be adjusted. These are a great choice for families with toddlers and infants who can sit up straight and take in the scenery.
Safety
Do not leave a stroller unattended with a child inside. Avoid carrying heavy bags and ensure that it is not overloaded as this could cause it to topple over, particularly when you're going up or down slopes. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the maximum weight limit for the basket as well as any other areas that you could hang things from as it is essential to keep the baby safe. Find an item with a lid that closes securely to prevent toddlers or babies from getting their fingers caught in the gap.
A pushchair, also referred to as a buggy or pram should be fitted with an adjustable five-point harness that fits around the shoulders, waist and between the legs. It is also advisable to purchase a raincover to protect your baby from the elements. Straps and plastic links are an excellent idea to prevent toys from falling off or getting lost.
Find a smooth and enjoyable ride by selecting a stroller that has air-filled tyres instead of solid rubber ones. These tyres perform the same as bicycle tyres and provide a more comfortable ride. They will also absorb road bumps without you feeling them. However, they are more prone to punctures than rubber tyres and it is a good idea to carry a repair kit for punctures on hand in case of.
Many parents opt to buy an infant stroller with a reclined seat so their child can rest and lie back on a walk or outing. Recent research suggests that babies held in a straight position for too long can suffer breathing issues. It is recommended to only use a pushchair with a reclining seat after your baby reaches six months old.
Look for a stroller with brakes that are easy to operate and remain locked when in use. If you're purchasing a second-hand model, check that the brakes are in good condition before you use it with your child. Certain older models could have a high brake lever that toddlers are able to reach. This could pose a risk and you should replace the brake lever with a new one, so that your child can't reach it when sitting in the pushchair.
Style
If you are looking for a pushchair that can handle rough terrain and rocky terrain, opt for one with lockable swivels. If you don't have a suspension, you will need one. It may cost more, but it is worth it if you're going to be using the stroller off-road or on holiday where the terrain could be rough.
If your baby is tiny, a pram with a seat that is lying flat is best. Research suggests that young babies who are not in a flat position can be stressed out when traveling for long periods of time and suffer breathing issues. Therefore, it is recommended that you travel only short distances with a pushchair that does not lay flat on the floor with your infant.
You can opt for a pushchair once your child is old enough to sit independently. These are usually simpler than prams and can fold up pushchair to fit in your car boot. They are also a good option for toddlers who are able walk on their own.
Both types of pushchair can be bought in a wide range of styles and colors to suit your personal taste and style. Many pushchairs come with matching accessories to make your baby's trip more enjoyable. You can buy bags that match to keep your baby warm and comfortable during outings. You could also add a Platinum Winter Footmuff with a down and feather mix filling to withstand cold temperatures.
If you're thinking of purchasing a 3-in-1 or 2-in-1 pushchair that can transform or recline, then be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean and maintain it. The fabric can differ between brands, but you should look for a material that is easy to clean with a damp cloth. If your pushchair is exposed to mud or dust It is better to wash your wheels using a hosepipe and soapy water to keep scuff marks from appearing.
Accessories
There are many accessories for pushchairs available which can improve efficiency, comfort and style. Some of them are essential for all parents, whereas others can be added to meet the needs of each individual.
A carrycot is an essential accessory for newborns, as it provides a safe place to rest. It can be affixed to a frame for a pushchair and comes with handles for simple removal when not in use. Carrycots also have a large hoods that protect infants from the elements.
Changing bags are another must-have, designed to hold everything you require to enjoy an outing with your baby. With handy straps that are ideal for keeping diapers, wipes, clothes, bottles and snacks close at hand.
For rainy days the umbrella for your pushchair is an essential investment. It is typically made of waterproof fabric and designed to fit the frame of the pushchair to ensure an exact, safe fit. Raincovers are suitable for strollers and car seats.
As your family grows, you might consider adding another seat or a ride-on board for the pushchair. These accessories are similar to skateboards and can be connected to the lower part of the stroller frame to allow older siblings to ride along. Many brands have adapters that are specifically made for their ride-on boards, making it easier to use.
A footmuff keeps babies warm in winter with its soft lining, and the exterior is also waterproof. A majority of pushchairs come with an accessory for feet in their accessories selection or you can purchase them separately.
Stroller gloves are perfect for colder temperatures. They let parents grasp the handlebars of the stroller without taking off their gloves. For the ultimate convenience, a stroller organizer is an excellent accessory that keeps essentials such as phones, keys, bus passes and travel flasks in one place to make it easy to access.
A luggage tag can be a useful way to identify your stroller when you're out and out and about. It's useful to have your name and contact information on hand in case the pushchair gets lost or stolen.
A carrycot is an essential accessory for newborns, as it provides a safe place to rest. It can be affixed to a frame for a pushchair and comes with handles for simple removal when not in use. Carrycots also have a large hoods that protect infants from the elements.
Changing bags are another must-have, designed to hold everything you require to enjoy an outing with your baby. With handy straps that are ideal for keeping diapers, wipes, clothes, bottles and snacks close at hand.
For rainy days the umbrella for your pushchair is an essential investment. It is typically made of waterproof fabric and designed to fit the frame of the pushchair to ensure an exact, safe fit. Raincovers are suitable for strollers and car seats.
As your family grows, you might consider adding another seat or a ride-on board for the pushchair. These accessories are similar to skateboards and can be connected to the lower part of the stroller frame to allow older siblings to ride along. Many brands have adapters that are specifically made for their ride-on boards, making it easier to use.
A footmuff keeps babies warm in winter with its soft lining, and the exterior is also waterproof. A majority of pushchairs come with an accessory for feet in their accessories selection or you can purchase them separately.
Stroller gloves are perfect for colder temperatures. They let parents grasp the handlebars of the stroller without taking off their gloves. For the ultimate convenience, a stroller organizer is an excellent accessory that keeps essentials such as phones, keys, bus passes and travel flasks in one place to make it easy to access.
A luggage tag can be a useful way to identify your stroller when you're out and out and about. It's useful to have your name and contact information on hand in case the pushchair gets lost or stolen.