The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Pushchair Stroller

Buying a Pushchair Stroller

A good pushchair stroller is one that is easy to use. Find one that is comfortable for your feet and has a parking brake that is easy to set and release and can stand upright without you having to hold it up.

Some pushchairs convert to doubles, and some come with separate seats and carrycots to let you expand with your family. Make sure you choose one with the hood with SPF/UPF 50+ and a parasol.

Comfort

It is essential that the pushchair is comfortable for you and your child. The padding on the seat should be suitable for your child and the handlebars must be adjustable to a comfortable height. You may also want to consider the recline mechanism. Some offer several positions, while others only offer a flat one suitable for infants.

Different manufacturers use different terminology to describe their products, but generally speaking, a pram is made for infants and toddlers, whereas strollers and pushchairs from birth are designed for older babies and toddlers. Prams usually have a more traditional carriage style with a bigger frame, while a stroller is usually lighter and compact. Prams can often convert into a stroller seat for infants, so you can continue to use them as your child grows.

Many people choose the pram for their baby because it offers a spacious carrycot that allows babies to lay flat in a bed-like environment perfect for naps as well as travelling. They can be configured to be orientated either towards the parent or the world which makes them perfect for parents who want to keep their baby in sight throughout their journeys.

If your stroller doesn't have a lie-flat seating option then you must purchase a carrycot separately that can be affixed to the chassis of your pram. These carrycots allow your infant to rest in a flat position, which is vital for healthy spinal and lung development.

A stroller or pushchair should be easy to manoeuvre and should have a lightweight robust frame that's built and designed for smooth surfaces. Try out a pushchair with a friend to see how it handles and whether you can easily turn it and maneuver it around tight turns. It is recommended to opt for a single-handed steering system which lets you hold your shopping bags as well as the handlebars.

Strollers are generally designed to be smaller and lighter than prams, and they can fold neatly to be stored and transported. They're more suitable for running and long distances, and some have extra features such as sunshades, cup holders or hoods that can be adjusted. They're an excellent choice for families with older infants and toddlers who can sit and relax during the ride.

Safety

Don't leave your stroller in the car with children inside. Avoid loading it with heavy bags and ensure it's not overloaded, as this could cause it to topple over, particularly when you're climbing up or down slopes. Review the instructions of the manufacturer for the maximum weight that can be placed on the basket and other areas you can hang things from since it is important to keep children safe. Also, look for a storage basket with an enclosed lid that is secure to keep toddlers and babies from getting their fingers stuck in the gap once it's opened.

A pushchair (also known as buggy or pram) must always be equipped with a five-point safety harness that can be slid over the shoulder or around the waist, and between the legs. It is also advisable to purchase a rain cover to shield your child from the elements. Straps or plastic links to secure toys so that they don't fall out and get lost are a great idea too.

Look for a smooth, enjoyable ride by selecting an air-filled stroller rather than solid rubber ones. These tyres work the same as bicycle tyres and provide a more comfortable ride. They also absorb road bumps without you feeling them. However, they are more susceptible to punctures than rubber tyres so it is a good idea to carry a repair kit for punctures to be prepared in the event of a puncture.

Many parents choose to purchase an infant stroller with a reclined seat to allow their baby to lay back and relax during an outing or walk. Recent research suggests that babies who are kept in an upright position for too long may suffer breathing issues. It is recommended to only use a pushchair that has a reclining seat after your baby reaches six months.

Choose a stroller with brakes that are simple to operate and remain locked when it is in use. If you're purchasing a second-hand model, check that the brakes are in good working condition prior to using it with your child. Some older models might have a lever for the brake which is high up where toddlers can reach it. This is a potential danger and you should replace the brake lever with a new one so that your child cannot reach it when in the pushchair.

Style

If you're looking for a stroller with a pushchair that is suitable for uneven and rocky terrain, it is important to determine whether it has locks for swivel wheels. If not, you'll need to rely on a good suspension system, which could cost more than a standard pushchair but is worthwhile for off-road usage and for trips where the ground can be rough.

If your baby is still tiny, a pram with a lie-flat seat is the best choice. According to research infants who aren't lying flat can experience breathing and stress issues when they travel for long periods of time. It is therefore advised to only travel short distances in a stroller that is not flat on the floor with your infant.

If your baby is a bit older and is able to sit on their own, you may opt for a stroller for a pushchair. They are generally less complicated than prams and can be folded to fit into your car boot. They are also a great option for toddlers who are able walk on their own.

Both types of pushchairs can be found in a variety of colours and styles to suit your personal style and preference. Many come with matching accessories that can improve your baby's experience and make it more enjoyable for you both. For instance, you can purchase a matching changing bag to ensure that your baby is comfortably snug and warm during outings. Also, you can include a Platinum Winter Footmuff which is made of real down and feather blend filling to withstand cold weather temperatures.

Check the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean and maintain a 2-in-1 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 pushchair. The fabric may differ from one brand to another, but you should look for a fabric that is easy to clean with a damp cloth. If your pushchair is going to be exposed to dust or mud it is recommended to clean its wheels with soapy water and a hosepipe in order to keep scuffs from happening.

Accessories

There are a variety of accessories for pushchairs that will enhance comfort, functionality and style. Some of these are essential for all parents, while others can be incorporated to meet the needs of each individual.

A carrycot is a must-have accessory, providing newborns with an environment that is safe to sleep in. It can be affixed to a frame for a pushchair, and features handles for easy removal when not in use. Carrycots are also equipped with a large hood that protects babies from the elements.

Bags for changing diapers are another must-have, designed to hold everything you require for a day out with your baby. They have straps that are convenient and are great to keep wipes, diapers, bottles, clothing and snacks in reach.

For rainy days the umbrella for your pushchair is an important investment. Most often made of waterproof material, it's tailored to fit the frame of the stroller for a perfect and secure fit. Raincovers can also be a great option for cars, as they're able to be used with all car seats and strollers.

As your family grows, you might consider adding an additional seat or ride-on board to your pushchair. Reminiscent of a skateboard, these accessories can be attached to the lower part of the stroller frame for older children to join to ride on. Many brands have adapters that are specifically designed for their ride-on boards making it simpler to use.

A footmuff helps keep babies warm during winter months with its soft lining and the exterior is also waterproof. Many pushchairs have an accessory for feet in their accessories range or can be purchased separately.

Stroller gloves are ideal for colder temperatures. They allow parents to grasp the handlebars of the stroller without removing their gloves. To make life easier, a stroller organizer is a great accessory, storing essentials such as phones, keys, bus passes and travel flasks together to make it easy to access.

A luggage tag is an excellent way to identify your pushchair when out and out and about. It's useful to have your name and contact information on hand in case the pushchair is stolen or lost.