What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and Buggys

If you're in the market for a pram, pushchair or buggy, there are lots of things to think about. Think about the amount you're able to spend, whether you'd prefer a compact buggy or something larger and how easy it will be to clean.

Look for models that feature a reclining seat that can be adjusted to various positions, as well as a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Check that they are completely flat as this is vital for the spine development of your baby.

Safety

It is essential to adhere to safety guidelines when you are out with your baby in a pushchair or pram. This will ensure that your child is safe and comfortable. Be sure to check the stroller or pushchair's weight limits to prevent overloaded vehicles as it could cause create instability or damage. Avoid putting blankets or pillows in the pram and car seat because they could pose a risk for your baby, particularly if there is an accident. Also, don't let older siblings climb on the pram or stroller as it could pose a risk.

It's also an excellent idea to search for a pushchair that has additional padding, particularly around the headrest, since this will help to keep your child safe from hitting objects while out and about. It's also a good idea to choose a pushchair with cushioned headrests as they will shield your child from bumping into objects when out and about.

Some pushchairs and prams include an attachment for a bassinet that is perfect for infants to lie on their backs cozy, cocooned and comfy. Some prams and pushchairs come with a carrycot which can be removed when your baby is able to sit up. Some prams may also include a seat unit that can be changed between these two types as your child grows.

Many pushchairs and prams are designed to fold down into smaller sizes when not in use, which makes them easy to store and carry in your car boot or on public transport. It is important to determine the size of the pushchairs when folded, as this can be an issue when you need to squeeze them in small spaces or climb up and down steps.

If you plan to take your pram or pushchair to rougher terrain such as fields, parks or even on beaches then it is recommended to choose an off-road model as this will be more suitable for these types of environments. Make sure that the wheels have air in them as they will be able to glide smoothly over rough terrain and will not puncture.

For sunny days, a parasol that is attached to the frame of the pushchair or a sunshade is a great way to keep your baby safe from overheating, and also provide shade. You can buy these separately or as part of a pushchair accessories set, with a variety of styles and colors to choose from.

Comfort

A quality pushchair or pram is one that is comfortable for your baby and you to push. Soft padded seats, adjustable settings that allow your baby to lie on their backs flat or sit up slightly to ease reflux and a large sun canopy are all beneficial. Find a suspension that makes the ride smooth and a receptive brake system to allow you to stop quickly if needed.

Newborns require a flat, fully lying position to help with their growing spine, so it's important to ensure that your pushchair is able to do this during the first few months. Many frames come with a newborn carrycot that then converts to the reclining seat when your baby is old enough, meaning you can have both an infant pram and a pushchair in the same frame.

When selecting a pushchair, you'll need to think about your needs, like how it's easy to move and how much storage space you require. It's a good idea to visit a shop where you can test drive different pushchairs or prams to feel how they behave and fold. You should also check out any accessories that you may require, such as an armband or a seat liner to keep your baby cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

In the end, you'll need to think about the overall look of your stroller - does it match your lifestyle and personality? You'll be using it for several years so make sure you pick a print or colour that won't date too quickly or leave you regretting your decision.

A lightweight pushchair with puncture-proof tyres that are big and bouncy, suspension, and a hood you can pull down to protect your child from the elements is our Goldilocks of pushchairs, providing the perfect balance of comfort for your child and you. With a sophisticated and stylish brushed twill fabric, a faux-leather handle and leatherette trims, it has a traditional feel but also looks modern and fresh. It's also very competitively priced and comes with a variety of useful accessories.

Practicality

It's common to hear the terms buggy, pram travel pram system and pushchair tossed around, but it's important to choose one which suits your needs and lifestyle. Look for models that can fold down to smaller sizes to make it easier when transporting on public transport as well as in your car's boot or storage space at home. If you choose to purchase an infant stroller or a travel system that has an additional baby seat, make sure that it snaps on easily to the chassis and can be removed without disturbing your baby (especially if they're sleeping).

Many prams pushchairs come with a large storage basket underneath the seat to help you keep your shopping, nappies and bags close to the ready. They are also usually equipped with swivel wheels which make them easy to manoeuvre and steer through narrow shop aisles, or turn around in busy areas such as beaches and parks. If you plan to ride the scooter in the countryside, you might want to choose a model with big all-terrain tires that can handle rough terrain and muddy roads.

A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a traditional pram, and the seat can be adjusted to multiple positions. This is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or for newborns. They typically have a wide canopy that provides your toddler or baby protection from the sun, and certain models could be suitable for use in the rain.

Consider how the model weighs and then consider if you are able to comfortably lift it out and in of your car's boot or up the stairs to your home (with or without your baby inside!) It is important to consider this especially since they will get heavier over time. You might want to think about investing in a machine-washable cover to make it easy to clean spilled or nappy-soaked liquids. It's recommended to test drive any prams or pushchairs you're contemplating buying, to see how they feel and move and how easy they fold and transport. It is also a good idea to check whether the handlebars are comfortable to you.

Cleaning

The quickest method to decrease the risk of mildew and mould is to clean your pushchair regularly. This includes wiping down any fabric parts immediately after they become dirty and giving them a full wash every couple of weeks or more often. Using a regular application of a deodoriser or fabric freshener will help keep odours away and help prevent the build-up of grime which can result in mould spores.

It's a good idea to remove any padding or covers prior to cleaning your pushchair. This will allow you to clean and access those hard to reach places like the hood, canopy or the seat supports. Next, choose an area that is well-ventilated to work in and then lay down a sheet or tarp to protect the floor and make clean-up as easy as possible. Also, it's an ideal idea to use a vacuum equipped with a nozzle that is flexible to loosen any dirt or food scraps that might be tucked away in the nooks and crannies.

If you have a pushchair with removable fabric sections, start by reading the manufacturer's care instructions and washing them according to the instructions (either in the machine or by hand). Otherwise, it is generally safe to apply a solution of warm water and mild soap (or mild detergent) on most fabrics used in pushchairs. It is recommended to test the fabric's colorfastness on a small area before using any cleaning product. Some chemicals can damage or bleach delicate fabrics.

Stubborn marks and stains can be easily removed by adding a small amount of bicarbonate of soda to the wash. This is an effective stain remover and can lift many types of odours, such as those caused by urine or milk. It also helps remove any residues of soap or detergent. After you're done, wash the fabric thoroughly to remove all soap traces and hang it up to dry. It is best to do this outdoors since sunlight acts as a natural fabric softener and a gentle disinfectant.