What to Look For in a Pushchair

A pushchair is a great option from the beginning of a child's existence. It can be a twin stroller or pram and has many features that parents will love to discover in their new pushchair.

Find a seat that has multiple recline positions and five-point harnesses to ensure your child's safety. Often, it will also include an upholstered carry cot frame that fits an infant car seat too.

Safety

The most important thing to take into consideration when selecting the right pushchair for your infant or toddler is safety. The pushchair should have a five-point safety harness, and be securely fastened. It should fit snugly around the child's waist, shoulders and between their legs with buckles that are easy to clip together and take off. Handlebars should be placed to prevent children from slipping off the seat.

A pushchair must also be built with a wide base for stability and be free of dangers like sharp or curved edges that could lead to injuries. Some pushchairs come with wheels that are locked, which is perfect for off-road use. It prevents the wheel from falling off. The brakes are also important and must be easily accessible. They should be simple to use and lockable. Some pushchairs come with wrist tether straps that provide security.

All strollers, buggies and prams must be used with care and regularly inspected. Do not overload prams or buggies with additional luggage and secure the 5-point safety belt. Children should not play with the folding mechanisms of the pushchair. Parents should make sure their fingers are kept away from any areas in which they could be caught.

Many pushchairs have a carrycot or bassinet that can be removed. This is great for newborns who need to sleep in a flat position. This is especially important due to the possibility of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Babies who travel in a straight position for too long could have breathing issues as they cannot breathe properly when in a scrunched-up position.

Some manufacturers make single and double Pushchair pushchairs that are suitable for a variety of age groups. Some of them can be converted into prams by using an adapter or by changing the seat unit. It is crucial that prams or pushchairs made for older children have a fully reclined backrest as babies need to lie flat until approximately six months old.

Convenience

A pushchair should be easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. It must also be able move over various surfaces, from paved walkways to rough grass. Some models come with suspension that gives a smooth ride for your child and lessens the strain on joints.

A pushchair often includes storage space underneath the seat. This is great to store extra clothes, a bag of changing cloths, as well as water bottles. Some pushchairs have a canopy that shields the child from the elements or sun. Some have a linked handle that is easier to push using one hand. Others have a single handle which can be adjusted for different heights.

Many pushchairs allow you to turn your baby's face towards you to provide reassurance, or away from you so that they can discover the world. This is a wonderful feature for infants and newborns.

Some pushchairs are safe for use from birth if they have a seat that is able to lie flat and a safety harness that is suitable. Check that the pushchair description clearly states that it can be used from birth and that it has a fully reclining seat that allows your baby to sleep in a lie-flat position, which is essential for their development.

They are typically compact and can be easily stored in your car or at home. They can also be used as a travel set-up with the addition of a carrycot, infant car seat.

A pram is also known as a baby carriage, bassinet or a baby carriage. It is made for infants and newborns. It is a flat sleeping space that allows your baby to sleep on their backs which is crucial for their lungs and spinal development. A pram is also a great option for older babies, beginning at about six months.

Comfort

Comfort is key when buying a pushchair for your baby. It will be used for a long time and is one of the most expensive purchases you'll ever make. Many models have adjustable handles and a comfortable seat cushion that can be adjusted in accordance with the height of the parents. This makes it easier for you to steer the pushchair, and lessens strain on your shoulders and arms, especially if you have been carrying baby around all day!

It is recommended that newborn babies sleep flat and some pushchairs provide the option of sleeping flat. It is essential that this option is available to ensure your baby gets the best possible rest for their health and development. Newborns do not have the strength to stand straight for long periods and this can interfere with their breathing, so it's crucial that they are able to lay comfortably in a seated position.

Some 'from-birth' pushchairs include an infant bassinet, carrycot or a baby hammock that you can use to hold and rest your newborn. These are often more expensive, but the additional cost is worth it to ensure that your baby is secure and comfortable in the early years of their life.

A hood with a ventilated design is another key feature to look for in a pushchair as it will help your baby stay cool and comfortable during outings. This will improve their health and well-being and help them to sleep better.

Many pushchairs have various storage compartments or baskets which provide ample space for your baby's essentials. This is ideal to store toys and clothes to keep them entertained during their walks and will allow you to avoid having to carry extra bags around when you're out and about.

Most pushchairs let you pick the direction your baby faces either towards you (rearward) or facing the world (frontward). Some models also have the option of having a carrycot attached to the frame. This means you can easily transfer your baby from the car to pushchair and not disturb them.

A lightweight pushchair is a must for anyone who plans on traveling with your child. It's easier to lift and store in a car boot or at home. It's also easier to maneuver in busy areas and on public transport.

Accessories

There are many accessories for pushchairs that can help make life with your little one easier and more comfortable. These include things like sunshades and raincovers that are designed to fit snugly over the pushchair, creating a protective barrier that keeps your child dry and protected from harmful UV rays. Other useful accessories are a footmuff (which can be purchased in a pushchair bundle or sold separately) shopping baskets, as well as pram changing bags.

Travel systems are another popular accessory that lets you attach your car seat pram seat with strollers. This accessory makes travelling with your child a lot easier because you can ensure that they are in place. It is also a great option for parents who frequently use public transportation frequently.

Consider the number of reclining and turning positions you need when selecting a stroller. Many pushchairs are reversible chair, which lets you change the direction your child faces. This is particularly beneficial for infants who are instructed to lie flat to help in their breathing and growth. It is also advisable to find a pushchair travel system that can switch the seat from parent facing to forward facing at the touch of a button, since this can be helpful when your child becomes a little older and you want to be able to keep an eye on them.

The type of wheels that are on your pushchair is also crucial. Verify whether they're fixed, swivel, or lockable. The dimensions of the wheels will differ with larger wheels usually giving more comfort. It is also worth finding out if the pushchair has pneumatic tyres, or the latest innovation; PU tyres which offer all the advantages of air tyres but without the risk of punctures.

Take into consideration the fold function of your pushchair and its weight, as these will impact how easy it is for you to store and transport. Some models fold in a small size and can be put in the trunk of your car, or in the overhead compartments of public transport.