What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys

There are many factors to consider when choosing a buggy, pushchair, or pram. Think about the amount you're willing to spend, if you're looking for a small buggy or something larger and how easy to clean it.

Look for models that have the ability to adjust to multiple positions and bassinets or a baby carrycot. Be sure that they are flat because this is essential to the development of the spine of your baby.

Safety

When you are out and about with your baby in a pram or pushchair it is essential to adhere to safety guidelines so that your little one is comfortable and secure. Avoid overloading the stroller or pushchair to ensure that there is no damage or instability. Avoid putting pillows or blankets in the pram since this could be hazardous for your child, particularly if they have an accident. Don't let older children climb on the pram or stroller as this could pose a danger.

Find a pushchair that has extra padding especially in the headrest area, to safeguard your child from bumping into objects while out and around. It's also recommended to select an infant stroller with cushioned headrests as it will help protect your child from hitting objects while out and about.

Some pushchairs and prams come with a bassinet that allows newborns to lie flat, in a cocoon of peace. Others may have an infant carrycot that can be removed when your baby is old enough to sit up. Some prams will also offer a seat unit that can be switched between these two types as your child develops.

Many prams and pushchairs are designed to fold into small dimensions when they are not in use, making them easier to store and transport in your car's boot or public transport. Be sure to check how compact they are folded. This could make a huge difference when you have to squeeze them into tight spaces or up and over the stairs.

If you're planning to take your pushchair or pram into rougher terrain, such as fields, parks, or even on beaches, it is recommended to find models with off-road wheels since they are better suited to these kinds of environments. Check that the wheels are air-filled since this will help them to maneuver over rough terrain and will not easily puncture.

A sunshade or a parasol that is attached directly to the frame of your pushchair will shade and guard your child against overheating on sunny days. They can be bought separately or as an entire set of accessories for your pushchair. There are many designs and colors available.

Comfort

A great pushchair or pram should be comfortable for your baby and you to push. A softly cushioned seat liner with adjustable settings that allow your newborn to lie flat or sway slightly (good for reflux sufferers) and a wide sun canopy are all beneficial. Choose suspension systems that make the ride smoother and a brake system that is responsive so you can stop quickly in the event of an emergency.

Newborns require a fully lie-flat position to support their growing spine and therefore it's essential to ensure your pushchair is able to support this for the first few months. A lot of frames include a baby carrycot that then converts to the reclining seat when your little one is old enough, which means you can put the pram and pushchair within the same frame.

You'll also have to consider your requirements when choosing a pushchair, like whether it's simple to maneuver and what kind of storage space you require. It's worth visiting a shop that lets you test drive different pushchairs or prams to test how they feel and how they fold. Also, you should look into any accessories you might want, like a footmuff or seat liner to keep your baby cool in summer and warm in winter.

You'll also want to consider the overall style of your stroller - is it a good fit for your personality and lifestyle. You'll use it for a long time so make sure you pick a print or colour that doesn't get old or make you regret your choice.

A light pushchair that is puncture-proof tyres that are big and bouncy, suspension, and a hood can be pulled down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs. It offers just the right balance of comfort for your child and you. With a stylish and sophisticated brushed twill fabric with a faux-leather handle and leatherette trims It has a classic feel but also looks fresh and modern. It is also reasonably priced and comes with a range of useful accessories.

Practicality

The terms pushchair, pram buggy, pram and travel system are frequently used but it's important to choose one that suits your needs and your lifestyle. It's easier to move around on public transportation, in your car or at home if you opt for models that fold up. If you opt for a pram or travel system with an additional baby seat, make sure that it snaps easily onto the chassis and can be detached without waking your baby (especially in the case of sleep).

Many prams have a large storage basket underneath the seat to help you keep your shopping, bags and nappies close at the ready. The wheels are typically swivel, making it easy to maneuver and steer through narrow aisles in stores or in areas with a lot of people, such as beaches and parks. If you plan to use it in the country, you may want to consider an all-terrain model with big tires that can withstand rough terrain and muddy paths.

A pushchair or stroller is lighter than a traditional pram and the seat can be adjusted into multiple positions. This is ideal for infants who are able to sit up or for newborns. A large canopy protects your baby or toddler from the sun. Some models are also suitable for rain.

Take note of how the model weighs and if you are able to lift it comfortably into your car boot or up the stairs (with or without an infant inside). - especially as they will get heavier over time. It may be worth paying an extra amount to get a washable cover that makes cleaning up spills or leaks from nappy diapers quick and easy. It's recommended to try out any prams or pushchairs that you're thinking of buying to be able to observe how they feel and behave and also how easy they are to fold and carry. It is also a good idea to see whether the handlebars are comfortable for you to hold.

Cleaning

Cleaning your pushchair regularly can reduce the chance of mildew or mould. This means wiping down any fabric parts when they become dirty and giving them a thorough wash every two weeks or so. Using a deodoriser and/or fabric freshener regularly can also help keep odors at bay and prevent the build-up of grime, which can cause the growth of mould spores as well as an unhygienic living space for your baby.

Before you start to clean your pushchair, it's an ideal idea to remove any toys, and to take off any covers or padding that are able to be removed. This will allow you to clean those difficult-to-access areas, like the hood or canopy. Next, choose an area with good ventilation to work in and then lay down a sheet or tarp to protect the floor and make cleaning as simple as it can be. Also, it's a good idea to use a vacuum with a flexible nozzle attachment to loosen any dirt or food scraps that could be trapped in the corners and crevices.

If you own a pushchair with removable fabric sections, begin by checking the care instructions provided by the manufacturer and washing them according to the recommendations (either in the machine or by hand). Otherwise, it is generally safe to make use of a solution of warm water and gentle soap (or mild detergent) on the majority of fabrics used in pushchairs. However, it is always advisable to spot test the fabric for the colorfastness prior to using any cleaning products since certain chemicals can bleach or damage delicate fabrics.

Stains and marks that are stubborn can be easily removed by adding a small amount bicarbonate of soda to the wash. This is an effective stain remover that can eliminate all kinds of odours for example, those caused by urine or milk. It will also help remove any residues of soap or detergent. After you're done, wash the fabric thoroughly to eliminate any soap residue and hang it to dry. It is best to do this outdoors since sunlight acts as natural softener for fabric and a gentle disinfectant.