Buying a Push Chair
A push chair (also called a stroller or buggy) is one of the most used baby products. Designed to provide security and support for newborns, pushchairs usually offer the option of facing towards parents.
Powerchairs are typically controlled by a joystick mounted to the armrest that can be adapted for users with low upper body strength, or sip and puff controllers (which are controlled by blowing into the tube). The chair can be equipped with the climber for the kerb.
Seating
A push chair is among the most important baby products that you can purchase. It is used by both parents and children. It is therefore essential to pay attention to all the small details. The most important aspects to consider are the seating options and whether you would like your child to face you or the world and how flexible the handlebar can be.
Some pushchairs (also known as buggies or prams) are suitable for infants and feature a fully reclined seat unit which can be sunk for babies to sleep. Some will come with an baby car seat, and pushchair in one (travel system) which makes it easier to move your family around as they grow.
Other pushchairs come with the option of a reversible pushchair that allows you to have your child facing either you or the world outside. This is especially beneficial for babies who are more comfortable with familiar faces. It can also be easier to observe them. If you opt for the pushchair option it is essential to make sure that the seat can provide your baby with a flat, completely supported lie-flat position.
There are different types seats for older children and toddlers to suit their needs and their age. Some seats can recline and tilt the backrest without changing the posture to stop pressure sores. Some seats have a built-in foot rest that raises the user up to eye level. This is helpful when traveling with children or parents who are having difficulties getting their child into the vehicle.
Powerchairs can be programmed to suit the user’s preferences and abilities. They offer a variety of power options that are controlled by a control panel located on the armrest. Your assessment specialist will help you select the right seating system and power options to suit your wheelchair.
The fabric of the seat is typically machine washable and can be cleaned with a damp cloth or a soft sponge, which will help you keep it clean. Certain manufacturers offer other accessories to have, for example the footmuff to keep your feet warm in colder weather and a seat liner, which can be fitted over the existing seat and will keep it safe from spills or crumbs, as well as potty training accidents!
Wheels
If you’re new to the pushchair world the range of choices for brands and models can seem overwhelming. It’s not a surprise that buying a pushchair is an overwhelming experience.
The wheels of your buggy are an important aspect to think about, as they can affect its performance. For instance larger wheels are better at handling rough surfaces and bumpy pavements and smaller wheels could be more suitable for urban areas.
Your lifestyle and the terrain you prefer will also determine the type of wheel tyres you should go for. For example, if you intend to use your pushchair for jogging then you’ll require tyres with air that absorb the jogging vibrations from the ground and keep your baby at ease. These are a common feature on all-terrain pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted’s Sport, which has 3 tyres filled with air.
If you don’t plan to jog, but still want to ensure that your child is safe on uneven or rough terrain, you might want to consider rubber or foam tyres. They are more durable and provide better shock absorption than plastic tyres. These are more commonly found on all-terrain pushchairs and three-wheelers, but they can also be found on some lightweight strollers.
A high-quality set of wheels for a pushchair should last and easily maintainable. You can make use of a hose for spraying the wheels regularly.
Some pushchairs have removable wheels that allow the pushchair to fold into a smaller footprint. This is a great option for those who need to transport or store it in small areas. In general, you’ll have to remove the front wheel of the pushchair to accomplish this, but make sure to check the instructions of the manufacturer before taking the steps.
Choose a handlebar that can be adjusted to suit the height of the user. This is a great feature if you are planning to share the pushchair with a partner or your grandparent’s children. It will help them to drive.
Suspension
The suspension of a pushchair is designed to absorb the bumps that occur during your journey. This is an essential feature for those handicapped as it aids to decrease the effort required to sit in the chair and offers the best postural support.
The kind of suspension used on a pushchair will differ from one model the next, so it’s best to consider your preferences and the terrain you will be traveling over when selecting the right one for you. A strong suspension is beneficial for those who live in rural areas or are going to be using their pushchair for long walks. However, it might not be needed for those who reside in an urban area where smooth roads are the norm.
Larger wheels may provide better suspension than smaller ones as they are more likely to absorb shocks. There is also the possibility that some pushchairs are fitted with a combination of different types of tyres: pneumatic, foam-filled or PU which can offer shock absorption but without the risk of punctures.
Some models also have a swivel wheel on the front that can increase the maneuverability. Depending on the material used, you’ll also be thinking about whether or not your stroller can be washed in a machine. It is crucial to keep the fabric of your stroller clean, as this will prevent any bacterial accumulation that can cause dampness or even mould.
You can easily clean your pushchair using a mild detergent or disinfectant. Be sure to brush off any loose mildew or mould with a soft bristle brush. Do this outside to stop it from spreading. If you can let it air dry in the sun. If you have stored your pushchair for a while, you can make use of a mild sterilising fluid to stop damp and mould from forming.
Controls
It is essential that the controls are easy to operate and comprehend. A pushchair will be used most often so it must have easy controls. It usually folds from front to back (like an Clamshell) and might also come with an auto-lock that will keep it shut. Some will have the handlebar which can be adjusted to various heights for parents of different sizes and ages.
Most ‘from birth’ pushchairs offer two seating options to face either towards the parent (parent facing) or away from them (world facing) to let parents connect with their child and let them discover the world around them. Some also have additional features like reclined backs that decrease the amount of energy your child is spending sitting down and can help with their postural support.
The type of brake is an important factor to consider for anyone who uses the pushchair. It will differ from one model to another. The most common is a foot brake that is located on the rear axle and operates by putting your feet on it to stop the wheels. Certain models include an active handbrake that you control by moving your hand in the direction of the movement. This is better for those who need a reliable and sensitive brake that they can utilize quickly and reliably as they move around in a busy area.
Certain models come with a swivel front wheel option that is particularly useful if you are traveling on rough terrain. The swivel wheel allows you to move more easily over uneven surfaces, or while traversing a busy street. The highest-quality pushchair tyres are made from a rubber material such as PU or EVA and will offer the comfort of air tyres but without the risk of punctures.