What to Look For in Pushchairs

A pushchair is a safe way to transport your child. They are also comfortable, and provide a smooth ride.

Consider a parasol to shield your child from the sun. Most pushchairs come with one, but if they don't the brands will offer it as an accessory.

If you're thinking of having another baby, look at the possibility of a convertible pushchair that could grow into a double. Some travel systems include an infant carry cot or seat unit.

Safety

It is essential that your pushchair is safe as it's your baby's safe place when they travel. All coach-built buggies, strollers and prams must comply with British standard BSEN 1888:2003 or BS7409/1996. This certification must be displayed on the product's information page of a reputable brand.

A five-point harness can ensure your baby's safety. It should be securely positioned over their shoulders and around their waists, and also between their legs. Make sure that the straps and buckles are easily secured and undone.

Make sure the brakes on your pushchair are easy to access and function as intended. It is also recommended to invest in reflective strips to assist other road users recognize your child and you in the dark winter months.

If your pushchair can carry two children, make sure that the footrest runs the entire length of both seats. This will stop the child from falling into the two foot rests and possibly falling out of the stroller.

All pushchairs, prams, and buggys must have a maximum weight limit. This limit is crucial to know prior to using the pushchair. A child who is overweight could cause it to be unstable.

A well-constructed pushchair should be able to handle being pushed across different surfaces. Choose one with sturdy, large wheels. The tyres must be made of durable materials, which will resist punctures and provide excellent traction on slippery roads. Some pushchairs are designed to be used off-road and come with special suspensions to ensure an easy ride.

Comfort

It's crucial to choose the best pushchair for your child. It could be as simple as ensuring it is padded enough to ensure your child is safe and comfortable or a footmuff in order to keep him warm and cosy during the winter months. Many pushchairs have reversible seating that allow you to decide if you want to face your child to bond or reassuring, or away from them to explore the world.

It's worth it for new parents to look for a pushchair that has seats that can be placed in a flat position. Experts recommend that babies sleep flat for the first few months of their lives to help with breathing and lung development. Many pushchairs claim to be able to recline fully but it is important to confirm whether the seat offers a lie-flat position and is safe for newborns.

Some pushchairs are light and easy to get into and out of the car and pass through narrow doors. Some pushchairs also be able to fit into overhead luggage racks of trains and planes. They are usually equipped with a simple and fast fold mechanism that allows you to fold it using just one hand. They can be used with the infant car seat and are suitable for use from birth.

Other pushchairs, such as the Silver Cross Adorra2, offer an upscale and luxurious experience, with a stunning design that turns heads. They can also be fitted with a variety of accessories for your child like car seat covers and rain covers. They are designed to be versatile enough to withstand the demands of family life and include the quick and simple to adjust five-point safety harness, as well as large puncture proof wheels.

Style

You'll probably use your pushchair the most often, therefore, you must choose a model that you and your child both are happy with. It's worth taking time to consider the finer details such as how comfortable the seat padding is and whether the handlebar features an adjustable height. There are a myriad of other aspects that can make a significant difference, such as an organizer for things or a front wheel lock.

A pram is designed for two children to be transported simultaneously, usually a toddler along with the baby. It is smaller than a pushchair and easier to maneuver in tight spaces or on public transport. It could be a tandem, or a single-seater where the child sits behind their parent.

Both pushchairs and prams can be used from the time of birth, although most are aimed at older babies as they're larger than buggies and have reclined seats which can face either away from you. There is often the option of adding an infant car seat, carry cot, or stroller to allow them to be used from birth until your child turns toddler. This is a great value travel system.

Some pushchairs feature one brake pedal, while others have a foot brake and hand brake that work in tandem to stop your pushchair in a secure and controlled way. The foot pedal is usually located on the rear axle of the pushchair and the hand brake is situated on the top of the frame, right next to the rear wheels. The foot brake is ideal for parents who live in a hill or in the countryside because it can prevent the parent from losing control of the pushchair.

Size

There are a variety of sizes of pushchairs. Some can be used from birth because they have an adjustable seat that can be sat on as well as a bassinet or carrycot attachment. Some are able to be used from the moment the child can sit up unaided typically about 6 months. The seat can be positioned in a way that the parents face each other to bond and reassure the child or away from them so that they can explore their surroundings.

The size of the wheel is also important. Some have larger wheels to allow for better manoeuvrability over rougher surfaces. Some have smaller wheels to enable a lighter framework and are easier push over pavements.

Some pushchairs have one brake pedal which locks both rear wheels. This is useful those who stop for a coffee or shopping. Some have two brake pedals to provide better control and security. It is vital that your pushchair has excellent brakes since it will be used on rough terrain, so be sure to examine the brakes frequently.

There are many options that can aid you in locating the ideal pushchair for your baby and family. Features that are easy to use like a one-hand compact fold, easy to adjust safety harnesses or adjustable handlebars make life with newborns and small children a lot easier.

The choice of the right pushchair is an investment in the safety and comfort of your baby or toddler. You'll likely use this product for a long time and therefore, you must take the time to think about the features that are essential to your family.

The purchase of a pushchair

Your pushchair is one of the biggest purchases you'll make for your child and it will be with you for a few years so think carefully about the features that will work best for you. Think about how it fits into your lifestyle. A stroller that is all-terrain is great for country walks but not so great on a shiny shop floor. If you're planning to use it with your grandparents and your parents, you may want something that they can manage and steer without feeling like they require an academic degree to operate.

Newborn babies require a flat surface and therefore you'll require an infant pushchair that has a carrycot or infant car seat (travel system) or a reclining seat unit that can be used from birth. Some models have the option of reversing, so you can put your baby facing you or the world when they get older.

When selecting a pushchair, you might want to consider accessories such as baskets and shopping trays, or pram changing bags that will make it easier to complete errands with your little one in your arms. Some pushchairs have hoods which offer extra sun protection, and others have rain covers that ensure your child is dry when it begins to rain.

Some pushchairs can be made a single or a double, and grow with your expanding family. This is usually accomplished by adding an additional seat unit or carrycot. This is a good option for those who know they're planning to have another baby soon after Lejoux+ Pink Baby Pushchair: Stylish and Functional Choice number one, or when you're not certain what your plans for the future are in the near future.