Buying a Pushchair Stroller

A good pushchair stroller should be easy to use. Find a stroller that is simple to operate, has a parking break that’s easy to set and release and be raised without having to hold it.

Some pushchairs can be converted to doubles and come with a separate seat and carrycot units to accommodate your growing family. Look for one with an hood that’s SPF/UPF50plus and a parasol.

Comfort

It is important that the pushchair is comfortable for you and your baby. Make sure that the padding in the seat is suitable for your child, and that the adjustable handlebars are at a comfortable height for you to use. You may also wish to consider the recline mechanism. Some have multiple positions, while others only offer a flat one suitable for infants.

Different manufacturers employ different terms to describe their products. However, a pram or pushchair as well as a stroller are generally intended for older babies or toddlers. Prams are more traditional and come with a a larger frame. Strollers are generally smaller and lighter. Prams can often convert into a stroller seat for infants, so you can continue to use them as your child grows.

Many parents opt for a pram for their infant because it offers a spacious carrycot that allows babies to lay flat in a comfortable bed which is ideal for naps and travelling. They can be set up to be orientated either towards the parent or the world which makes them perfect for parents who wish to be able to watch their child throughout their journeys.

If your pram doesn’t come with a seat that can be sat on, then you should purchase a carrycot separately that can be affixed to the chassis of your pram. These carrycots enable your baby to sleep in a upright position, which is crucial for spinal and lung development.

A stroller or pushchair should be able to be maneuvered easily and should have a sturdy, lightweight frame that is built and designed to be used on smooth surfaces. Make sure to test out a friend’s pushchair before buying to feel the way it moves and if you are able to easily move, turn and steer it around tight corners. It is recommended to select a single-handed steering mechanism, which allows you to hold your shopping bags in addition to the handlebars.

Strollers are generally designed to be smaller and lighter than prams, and can fold easily to store and transport. They are more suited for jogging and travelling long distances, and some come with extra features like sunshades, cup holders or hoods that can be adjusted. They are an excellent choice for families with older infants and toddlers who are able to sit up and enjoy the ride.

Safety

A stroller should only be used with children in it and should never be left unattended. Avoid carrying heavy bags and ensure it’s not overloaded, as this could cause it to fall over, especially when you’re climbing up or down slopes. It is crucial to review the instructions of the manufacturer to see what the weight limit is for the basket or other locations where you could hang things. This will help keep your baby safe. Also look for a storage container that has a secure closing lid to stop toddlers or babies from getting their fingers stuck within the gap when it is opened.

A pushchair, also known as a pram or buggy should be fitted with an adjustable five-point harness that fits around the waist, shoulders and between the legs. It is also recommended to purchase a rain cover to shield your baby from the elements. Straps and plastic links are an excellent idea to prevent toys from falling off or getting lost.

Look for a smooth, comfortable ride by choosing a stroller with air-filled tyres instead of rubber ones. These tyres work similar to bicycle tyres and offer an easier ride. They also absorb road bumps without feeling them. However, they are also more prone to punctures than rubber tyres so it is a good idea to carry a repair kit for punctures on hand in case of.

Many parents choose to purchase an infant stroller with a reclined seat to let the baby lay back and relax during an outing or walk. This is due to recent research that has suggested that young babies who are too much in an upright position can have breathing issues. You should only use a stroller with a reclining seat after your baby reaches six months.

Find strollers with brakes that can be easily operated and will stay locked when used. If you are buying an older model, make sure that the brakes are in good working condition before you use it with your child. There are older models that may have a brake lever that is located high where toddlers could reach it. This poses a risk and you should replace it with a new brake lever so that your child can’t reach it while in the pushchair.

Style

If you’re looking for a pushchair stroller that will be suitable for rocky and uneven terrain, you need to consider whether it comes with locks for swivel wheels. If not you will need to rely on a quality suspension system. This may cost more than a standard pushchair, but is beneficial for off-road travel and trips in which the ground is rough.

If your baby is still small folding pushchair, a stroller with a lie-flat seat is best. According to research, babies who are not lying flat may experience stress and breathing problems when traveling for long periods. For this reason, it is recommended that you only travel for short distances when you have an infant in a non-lay flat pushchair.

If your baby is getting older and can sit up on their own, you can choose a pushchair stroller. These are usually simpler than prams and can be folded to fit in the car boot. These are also good for toddlers that can walk independently.

Both types of pushchair can be bought in a wide range of styles and colors to match your personal preferences and style. Many come with matching accessories that can improve your baby’s journey and make it more enjoyable for both. For instance, you can purchase a matching changing bag that will ensure that your baby is comfortably warm and cozy on outings. You could also include a Platinum Winter Footmuff which has a real feather and down filling to withstand cold weather temperatures.

If you’re considering buying a 3-in-1 or 2-in-1 pushchair that can be transformed or recline, be sure to read the guidelines of the manufacturer for how to clean and maintain it. The fabric may differ between brands however, you should look for a material that is easy to clean using a damp cloth. If your pushchair is going to be exposed to dirt or mud it is recommended to clean its wheels with soapy water and a hosepipe to prevent scuffs.

Accessories

There are a variety of accessories for pushchairs that can improve comfort, function and design. Some of these are essential for all parents, whilst others can be incorporated to meet individual requirements.

A carrycot is an essential accessory that provides newborns with an environment that is safe to sleep in. It can be attached to a frame for a pushchair, and comes with handles for simple removal when not in use. Carrycots are also equipped with large hoods that protect infants from the elements.

A changing bag is an additional essential item to have. It’s designed to accommodate everything you need on a day with your baby. They come with handy straps and are great for keeping wipes, diapers bottles, clothing and snacks at hand.

For rainy days, a pushchair umbrella is an important investment. It is typically made from waterproof material and tailored to fit the frame of the stroller to ensure an exact, secure fit. Raincovers are also a fantastic addition to cars, as they’re able to be used with all car seats and strollers.

As your family grows, you may decide to add a second seat or a ride-on board to your pushchair. Similar to a skateboard, these accessories can be affixed to the lower part of the stroller frame for older siblings to get to ride on. Most brands offer adapters that are specifically designed for their ride-on board which makes it much easier to use.

A footmuff is an essential accessory during winter that keeps babies warm with its soft interior and showerproof exterior. Many pushchairs include a footmuff in their accessory range or you can purchase the item separately.

Stroller mittens are ideal for colder temperatures, allowing parents to grip the handlebars without taking off their gloves or putting them on every time they need to use the brake pedal. A stroller organizer is a fantastic accessory that provides ultimate convenience. It helps keep important items like phones, keys and bus passes together in one place.

A luggage tag is a handy way to identify your pushchair while out and about. It’s useful to have your contact details and name on hand in case the pushchair is stolen or lost.