The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Pushchair Stroller
Buying a Pushchair Stroller
A good pushchair stroller is one that is easy to use. Choose one that's sandal foot-friendly, has a parking brake that's easy to set and release and can stand upright without you having to hold it up.
Some pushchairs are able to convert into doubles and come with a separate seats and carrycots to accommodate your growing family. Find one with a hood that's SPF/UPF 50+ and a shade.
Comfort
The pushchair is likely to be used for long periods of time, so it's crucial to make it comfortable for both the baby and the parent. Make sure that the seat padding is suitable for your baby, and that the adjustable handlebars are at a comfortable height for you to use. You may also want to consider recline mechanisms Some have multiple positions while others provide the flat position suitable for babies.
Different manufacturers employ different terms to describe their products. However, a pram or pushchair as well as strollers are usually designed for older babies or toddlers. Prams tend to have more of a traditional carriage style with a bigger frame, while a stroller is usually lighter and compact pushchair. Prams are usually convertible into stroller seats for infants, so you can use them as your child grows.
Many parents opt for a pram for their infant because it offers a spacious carrycot that allows babies to lie flat in a bed-like setting - ideal for naps and traveling. They can be configured to be orientated either towards the parent or to be orientated towards the world and are ideal for parents who wish to see their baby throughout their journeys.
If your pram does not offer a lie-flat option it is recommended to invest in a separate carrycot which can be attached to the chassis of your pram. These allow your newborn to rest in a flat position, which is crucial to ensure healthy lung and spine development.
A stroller or pushchair must be a breeze to maneuver and come with a light, sturdy frame that's well constructed and crafted for smooth surfaces. Try out a pushchair with a friend to see how it performs, and if you can easily turn it around and navigate it around tight corners. A one-handed steering system is the best, as this lets you keep the bag of shopping and handlebars all at once.
Strollers can fold up to make it easy to store and transport. They are lighter and smaller compared to prams. 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 a great option for families with toddlers and infants who can sit straight and take pleasure in the ride.
Safety
Never leave a stroller in the car with children inside. Avoid overloading the stroller with heavy bags. This could cause it to collapse, especially if you are going up or down slopes. It is essential to review the instructions of the manufacturer to determine the maximum weight limit for the basket or other places where you can hang things. This will help keep your baby safe. Also, look for a basket that has closed lids that are secure to prevent babies or toddlers from getting their fingers stuck in the gap when it's opened.
A pushchair (also known as buggy or pram) should always come with a five-point safety belt that fits over the shoulder, around the waist and between the legs. A rain cover will protect 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, comfortable ride by choosing an air-filled stroller instead of solid rubber ones. They function exactly the same way as bicycle tyres, providing you with an easier ride and will absorb bumps in the road without needing to feel them too much. They are more prone to punctures, however, than rubber tyres. It's an excellent idea to carry a puncture repair kit just in case.
Many parents choose to purchase the pushchair with a reclined seat in order to allow the baby to lie back and relax during walks or outings. This is because recent research has shown that babies who are confined to an upright position can develop breathing difficulties. It is recommended that you only use a pushchair that has a reclining seat once your baby has reached six months of age.
Find strollers with brakes that are easily operated and will stay locked when in use. Verify that the brakes are working correctly before you purchase a used model. Certain older models could have a high brake lever that toddlers are able to reach. This poses a risk and you must replace it with a new brake lever so that your child cannot reach it while they are in the pushchair.
Style
If you're looking for a stroller that will be suitable for rough and uneven terrain, it is important to determine whether it comes with lockable swivel wheels. If you do not have a suspension system, you will need one. It may cost more, but it's worth it if going to be using the stroller off-road or on holiday where the terrain can be rough.
If your baby is small, a stroller with a lie-flat seat is the best choice. According to research that babies who aren't lying flat can experience breathing and stress issues when they travel for extended periods. Because of this, it is advised to only travel short distances with an infant in a non-lay-flat pushchair.
If your baby is a bit older and is able to sit on their own, you can consider a pushchair stroller. They are usually less complicated than prams and can fold more easily to fit into your car boot. They are also a great choice for toddlers who can walk on their own.
Both types of pushchairs are available in a variety of colors and styles to fit your individual preference and style. Many pushchairs come with matching accessories to make your baby's trip more enjoyable. For instance, you can purchase a matching changing bag that will ensure that your baby is comfortably wrapped in warmth and coziness on outings. You can also include a Platinum Winter Footmuff that has a feather and down mix filling that will withstand cold temperatures.
If you're thinking of purchasing a 3-in-1 or 2-in-1 pushchair that can transform or recline, be sure to read the guidelines of the manufacturer for how to maintain and clean it. The fabric will vary from one brand to another however, you should search for a fabric that is easily cleaned by using a damp, clean cloth. If your pushchair is going to be exposed to dust or mud, it's best to wash its wheels with soapy water and a hosepipe to keep scuffs from happening.
Accessories
There are a range of accessories for pushchairs to improve comfort, functionality and design. Certain are essentials for all parents, while others can be adapted to meet individual needs.
A carrycot is a must-have accessory for newborns, as it offers a safe place to rest. It can be easily connected to a pushchair and has handles to be used when not in use. Carrycots also have a large hood that protects infants from the elements.
A changing bag is an additional must-have. It's designed to hold everything you need on an outing with your baby. With handy straps that are ideal for keeping wipes, nappies bottles, clothes, and snacks close at hand.
A pushchair umbrella can be a great investment for rainy days. Most often made of waterproof material, it's tailored to fit the frame of the stroller to ensure a secure and precise fit. Raincovers are suitable for strollers and car seats.
As your family grows, you may wish to add a second chair or a ride on board to your stroller. These items that resemble skateboards can be connected to lower parts of the frame of the stroller to allow older siblings to ride along. Most brands offer adapters specifically designed for their ride-on board, making it easier to use.
A footmuff is a key accessory in winter, keeping babies warm with its soft lining and showerproof exterior. Many pushchairs come with a footmuff included in their accessories collection or they can be purchased separately.
Stroller mittens are ideal for colder temperatures and allow the parent to grip the handlebars without removing their gloves or putting them back on each time they have to use the brake pedal. A stroller organizer is an excellent accessory that provides ultimate convenience. It helps keep essentials like keys, phones and bus passes together in one place.
A luggage tag is an excellent way to identify your pushchair when you're out and out and about. It's useful to have your contact details and name on hand in case the pushchair gets lost or stolen.