24 Hours To Improve Pushchairs

Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair, also referred to as a pram, buggy or babiie stroller, is like the Swiss army knife of baby transport. These baby-chariots can handle any surface, from busy streets to rough terrain.

A good pushchair offers security and comfort for your baby, convenience for you and a chance to spend time together and explore the world together. Find out what to look for when buying one.

Folding

When selecting a stroller, parents are often concerned about how easy it will be to fold it. A standout is the EeZeFold, which has an incredible one-handed fold which lets you hold your child while folding the buggy, meaning you don't have to juggle between the two. The buggy stays upright when folded, which means you do not have to worry about the child falling out or getting harmed during this process.

Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they can fit into the trunk of your car, so they're ideal for frequent traveler or have a small car boot. Others are day-to-day buggies that take up a smaller amount of space than the average pushchair but still come with decent features such as a great recline and lightweight wheels. They are usually light enough to be able to be carried by hand, so Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.

The majority of these pushchairs are designed towards toddlers and older infants as they can sit up, however some offer a lie-flat seat and the option to add a carrycot to make them suitable from birth. They may also be travel system compatible, so you can attach an infant car seat to the frame in a single click.

Many compact pushchairs are very compact when folded with the seat attached. They're perfect for those who are limited in storage space at home or live in apartments. They're also light and usually come with a rain cover to protect them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another very popular pushchair in this category that is an ideal option for traveling as it folds by simply pressing a button. It is also extremely light, making it easy for you to handle even on rough surfaces. It also comes with a great suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the outside world or the parent, and the hood can be extended to provide extra sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can change form to meet the requirements of families growing. It can begin as an individual stroller, then transform into a double stroller for children and even become a triple stroller through the addition of an additional seat or twin Pushchair ride-along board. Our top pick, the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a versatile single-to-double stroller that converts to accommodate a bassinet, car seat for newborns as well as one or two toddler seats and a third child with the use of adapters.

Convertible strollers should come with adjustable features, like the height and reclining setting. They should also have large, easy to grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms or grandmas to push. And because these types of strollers usually have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they should be more sturdy and less likely to fall over when carrying several children or loads of gear.

Larktale's new crossover stroller/wagon is a first of its kind, includes a single stroller and a wagon. Parents do not have to purchase separate items. It is quick and easy to convert into a single or double stroller with no tools or conversion kits, and provides ample seating options with its second seat as well as a pull handle when used in wagon mode. The Larktale is bulkier than our other top-rated convertibles however it is a great maneuverability and can easily handle uphills. Its biggest flaw is the limited storage underneath the seat. Click here for additional information.

Safety

A great pushchair should come with several safety features including the five-point harness for babies. The harness should be able to fit over the shoulders and around the waist as well as between the legs. It is also essential that the harness doesn't become loose and that it has no areas where a baby could get their fingers stuck.

There are a number of different brakes for pushchairs, so choose the one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most commonly used and great if you are likely to stop a lot for shopping. Hand brakes are found on a lot of jogger-style pushchairs and is more useful if you are going to be able to change momentum frequently, for instance, when going for a run. Some pushchairs feature an active hand brake that works by pressing a pedal using your foot. This is a good option for parents who need to stop and beginning their pushchairs more frequently. It allows you to keep your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.

Examine if the front wheel of the foldable pushchair is able to be locked. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas that have steep slopes or uneven terrain. A lockable wheel on the front can stop the pushchair rolling away if you are in a rush or have lots of baggage in the rear.

Even though it may seem like a small consideration but you must also think about the weight of the stroller. Even a pushchair that is light can be quite heavy when stuffed with an expanding child and shopping bags. Check the weight of your pushchair and see whether you are able to lift it up a flight of stairs and into the trunk of your car, while carrying the toddler.

A pram, buggy or pushchair is made for babies who sit up and is generally used from 6 months. They come with a seat that can face towards you for bonding and away from you to explore the world. Many pushchairs can be adjusted to seating positions, handlebars, and other accessories.

Comfort

There are a variety of pushchairs with comfort features that parents enjoy. Some are better suited to rough terrain or city streets than others, and the brake type is another factor to take into consideration. For instance, a foot brake is perfect for simple daily use, while the hand brake that is active on jogger-style pushchairs may be more responsive and easy to use when on adventures.

The capacity of your pushchair to permit newborns to lie completely flat is one of the most important features. It's important to choose a running pushchair that has this feature from the moment of birth. This will enable your baby to develop their spine in a straight position. This will give your baby a relaxing nap or rest, making the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a healthier, happier child.

It is essential to select a pushchair that's compatible with the infant car seat you have chosen. This will make it easier for you to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also help keep the child calm and less agitated.

Some pushchairs come with a smart adaptor for car seats, which allows you to connect your car seat. This means that you can use the same seat from birth until toddlerhood, reducing costs and time. Many brands offer a travel bundle which includes a baby car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, along with the footmuff in one purchase.

Another crucial comfort feature is a good suspension, especially on the front wheels. This can make a big difference when driving on rough roads or in city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while keeping your the baby in a comfortable position.

Other useful comfort features you should look for include a spacious shopping basket (or even a separate bag), adjustable handle bar that can recline, adjustable seat position and the hood that is ventilated. The combination of these features will allow you navigate to the city or out in the country, and ensure your child gets the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.