Ten Pushchair Myths That Aren t Always True
What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys
There are many factors to take into consideration when selecting a buggy, pushchair, or pram. Think about how much you can afford, if you want something smaller or more spacious and how easy the buggy is to clean.
Look for models that have an adjustable reclining seat that can adjust to multiple positions and a newborn carrycot or bassinet. Be sure to check if they are flat as this is essential for your baby's developing spine.
Safety
It is important to follow the safety guidelines when you're out with your child in a pushchair or pram. This will ensure that your child is secure and comfortable. Avoid overloading the stroller or pushchair to ensure that there is no damage or instability. Avoid placing blankets or pillows in the pram newborn since this could be hazardous for your child, particularly in the event of an accident. Don't let older children play on the double pram pushchair or stroller as this is a potential hazard.
It's also recommended to look for a pushchair that has extra padding, especially in the area of the headrest, as this can keep your child safe from crashing into objects when out and out and about. A parent-facing mode is also a good option as it makes it easy and quick for you to monitor your baby and keep them happy and comfortable.
Some prams and pushchairs prams pushchairs have a bassinet attachment that is ideal for newborns to lay flat on the comfort of a cocoon and be comfortable. Others may have an infant carrycot that can be removed once your baby is old enough to sit up. Some prams will also offer a seat unit that can be changed between the two types as your child grows.
Many prams and pushchairs can be folded down to a compact size when not in use. This makes them easier to keep in your car boot, or even transport on public transport. Check how compact they are folded. This could make a huge difference when you need to fit them into tight spaces or go up and down stairs.
If you intend to use your stroller or pram into areas with rougher terrains, such as fields or parks, or even on the beach, it's ideal to select one with off-road wheels. These are the best wheels for these kinds of terrains. Check to see if the wheels have air in them because they will be able to glide smoothly across rough terrain without having to puncture.
A sunshade or a parasol that is attached directly to the frame of your pushchair will provide shade and guard your child from overheating on hot days. You can purchase these items in a separate purchase or as part a pushchair accessories set, with a variety of styles and colours to pick from.
Comfort
A quality pram should be easy to push for you and your baby. Soft padded seat liners, adjustable settings that allow your baby to lie flat on their back or raise their legs slightly to ease reflux, and large sun shades are all useful. Look for a suspension that makes the ride smooth and a brake system that is responsive so you can stop quickly if needed.
Newborns require a flat, fully lying position to aid in their growing spines and therefore it's essential to make sure your pushchair is able to support this for the first few months. Many frames include a baby carrycot which can be changed to a reclining seat when your baby is old enough, which means you can use both the pram and pushchair in the same frame.
You'll also have to consider your requirements when choosing a pushchair, like whether it's simple to maneuver and what type of storage space you need. You should visit a shop where you can test-drive different prams or pushchairs to test how they feel and fold. It's also recommended to check out any accessories you'd like including a footmuff, seat liner and fans that will help your baby stay cool in summer or warm in winter.
Also, consider the overall style of your stroller - does it fit your personality and lifestyle. You will be using your pushchair for many years, so make sure you pick the right color or design that you will not regret.
A light pushchair that is puncture-proof tyres that are big and bouncy, suspension and a hood that you can pull down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs. It offers the perfect balance of comfort for both your child and you. It has a sophisticated and elegant brushed twill that has faux leather handles and leatherette trimmings. It has a traditional look but also looks contemporary and contemporary. It's also reasonably priced and comes with a variety of useful accessories.
Practicality
The terms pushchair, pram buggy, pram and travel system are frequently used but it's important to select one that is suitable for your needs and fits your lifestyle. Choose models that fold down to smaller sizes as this will help when you're on public transport as well as in your car's storage or boot space at home. If you opt for a pram or travel system that has a separate baby seat, ensure that it snaps securely onto the chassis and is able to be removed without waking your baby (especially if they're sleeping).
Many prams come with a spacious storage basket underneath which helps keep your shopping bags, bags and nappies in reach. They are also usually equipped with swivel wheels, which allow them to maneuver and steer through narrow shop aisles, or turn around in busy areas such as beaches and parks. If you're going to use it in the country, you may want to choose an all-terrain model with big tires that can withstand muddy walks and rough terrain.
A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a traditional pram, and the seat can be adjusted to different positions. This is ideal for infants who can sit up or for newborns. They typically have a wide canopy which will offer your baby or toddler with protection from the sun. However, some models might also be suitable for use in rainy weather.
Consider how the model weighs and if you are able to safely lift it into the car boot or up the steps (with or without an infant inside). It is important to consider this especially since they will get heavier over time. You may want to consider buying a machine-washable cover for easy cleaning of spilled or nappy-soaked liquids. It's an excellent idea to test drive any pushchair or pram you're contemplating buying, so that you can see how they feel and behave and how easy they are to fold and transport. You might also want to determine if the handlebars are comfortable to hold.
Cleaning
The quickest way to reduce the risk of mildew and mould is to clean your pushchair regularly. This includes cleaning any fabric components as soon as they are dirty and giving them a full wash every two weeks or so. Using a deodoriser and/or fabric freshener regularly will also help to reduce odours and prevent the build-up of grime, which can lead to the development of mould spores and an unhygienic living space for your baby.
It's a great idea to remove any padding or covers prior to beginning cleaning your pushchair. This will allow you to access and clean those hard to reach places like the hood, canopy or seat supports. Then, select a space that is well-ventilated and lay down sheets to protect the floor. This will make cleaning simpler. Make use of a vacuum cleaner that has an adjustable nozzle to take out any food particles or dirt that might have gotten stuck in the crevices and nooks.
If your pushchair cheap has fabric parts that can be removed, read the instructions of the manufacturer for cleaning and wash them according to the instructions (either by hand or in a washing machine). Otherwise, it is generally safe to make use of a warm solution of water and gentle soap (or a mild detergent) on all fabrics used in pushchairs. It is best to test the fabric's colourfastness on an area of a tiny size prior to using any cleaning product. Some chemicals can damage or bleach delicate fabrics.
Add a small amount of the wash to eliminate stubborn marks and stains. This is a powerful stain remover and can lift all kinds of odours including those triggered by urine or milk. It will also help remove any residues of soap or detergent. After you're done, rinse the fabric thoroughly to get rid of any soap residue and hang it to dry. Do this outside, since sunlight is a natural fabric conditioner and disinfectant.