Buying a Pushchair Stroller
A good pushchair egg stroller is one that is easy to use. Choose one that's comfortable for your feet, comes with a parking brake that is easy to adjust and release, and can stand upright without you needing to lift it up.
Some pushchairs can be converted into doubles, and some come with separate seats and carrycots to allow you to expand with your family. Find one with an hood that's SPF/UPF50+ and a shade.
Comfort
It is important that the pushchair is comfortable for both you and your baby. The padding on the seat should be a good match for your child, and the handlebars should be adjustable to a comfortable height. You might also want to look at the recline mechanism - some have multiple positions whereas others only provide the flat position suitable for newborns.
Different manufacturers use different terms to describe their products, but generally speaking, a pram is designed for newborns and infants, whereas strollers and pushchairs are made for older infants and toddlers. Prams are more traditional and have larger frames. Strollers tend to be lighter and compact. Prams are often converted into an infant stroller seat and you can continue to use them as your child develops.
Many people choose a pram for their infant because it is a large carrycot that allows the infant to lay flat in a bed-like environment - ideal for naps and travelling. They can be set up to be orientated either towards the parent or to be orientated towards the world which makes them perfect for parents who wish to keep their baby in sight throughout their journeys.
If your pram does not come with a seat that can be sat on, then you need to purchase a carrycot separately that can be affixed to the chassis of your pram. These carrycots enable your baby to sleep in a upright position, which is crucial for spinal and lung development.
A stroller or pushchair must be easy to maneuver and should have a lightweight, sturdy frame that's well constructed and built for smooth surfaces. Test out a friend’s pushchair to see how it performs, and if you can easily turn it around and maneuver it around tight turns. It is recommended to opt for a single-handed steering mechanism, which lets you hold your shopping bags as well as the handlebars.
Strollers can be folded to make it easy to store and transport. They are smaller and lighter when compared to prams. They are more suited for running and long distances. Some include extra features like sunshades, cup holders or adjustable hoods. They can be an ideal choice for families with older children and toddlers who are able to sit up and enjoy the ride.
Safety
Do not leave a stroller unattended with a child inside. Avoid loading it with heavy bags and ensure it's not overloaded as this could cause it to tip over, particularly when you're going up or down slopes. It is essential to check the manufacturer's guidelines to find out the maximum weight limit for the basket or any other locations where you could hang things. This will help keep your baby safe. Also, look for a storage container that has closed lids that are secure to keep toddlers and babies from getting their fingers stuck within the gap when it's opened.
A pushchair (also known as a pram or buggy) must always be equipped with five-point safety harnesses that can be slid over the shoulder or around the waist, and in between the legs. A rain cover can protect your baby against the elements. Straps and plastic links are also an excellent idea to prevent toys from falling or getting lost.
You can enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride by choosing a stroller with air-filled tyres rather than solid rubber ones. These tyres perform the same as bicycle tyres, and offer a more comfortable ride. They also absorb road bumps without feeling them. They are more prone to punctures, however, than rubber tyres. Therefore, it is recommended to carry a puncture repair kit in case of.
Many parents opt to purchase a pushchair buggy with a reclined seating position to allow their baby to lay back and relax during a walk or outing. Recent research suggests that babies kept in an upright position for too long can develop breathing problems. It is recommended to only use a pushchair that has a reclining chair after your baby turns six months old.
Choose a stroller and pushchair with brakes that are simple to operate and will remain locked when used. If you're purchasing a second-hand model, ensure that the brakes are in good condition before you use it with your child. Certain older models may have a lever for the brake that is situated up high where toddlers could reach it. This poses a risk, and you should replace it with an alternative brake lever, to ensure that your child is unable to reach it while in the pushchair.
Style
If you are looking for a pushchair stroller that is suitable for rough and uneven terrain, you should consider whether it has locking swivel wheels that can be locked. If you don't have a suspension, you will need one. It might cost more, but it's worth it if you are planning to use the stroller off-road or during a trip where the terrain is rough.
If your baby is small, a stroller with a lie-flat seat option is best. According to research infants who aren't lying flat may suffer from breathing and stress issues when they travel for extended periods. This is why 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 able to sit on their own, you can opt for a stroller for a pushchair. They are usually less expensive than prams and can fold to fit into your car boot. They are also suitable for toddlers who can walk on their own.
Both types of pushchair can be purchased in a variety of colors and styles to suit your personal taste and style. Many pushchairs come with accessories to make your baby's journey more enjoyable. You can buy a matching bag to keep your baby warm and cozy on outings. Or, you could add a Platinum Winter Footmuff which has a real down and feather blend filling that can withstand frigid winter temperatures.
Review the manufacturer's directions on how to clean and maintain a 2-in-1 3-in-1, or 4-in-1 pushchair. The fabric will vary from one brand to another however, you should look for a material that is easy to clean using a damp cloth. If your pushchair is going to be exposed to mud or dust, it's best to wash its wheels with soapy water and a hosepipe in order to avoid scuffs.
Accessories
There are a range of accessories for pushchairs to improve comfort, functionality and style. Some are essential for all parents, while others can be adapted to meet your specific needs.
A carrycot is a must-have accessory, providing newborns with a safe and secure space to rest in. It can be easily connected to a pushchair and has handles when not in use. Carrycots are also equipped with large hoods that shield infants from the elements.
A changing bag is another must-have. It's designed to accommodate everything you need during the day you spend with your child. With straps that are convenient that can be used to keep diapers, wipes, clothes, bottles and snacks on hand.
A pushchair umbrella can be an excellent investment for rainy days. Most often made of waterproof material, they are designed to fit the frame of the stroller for an accurate and protective 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 accessories that resemble skateboards can be attached to the lower part of the stroller frame to let older children ride along. Many brands provide adapters for their ride-on board, to ensure the most user-friendly experience.
A footmuff is an essential accessory during winter, keeping babies warm with its soft liner and waterproof exterior. Many pushchairs come with a footmuff included in their accessories range or you can purchase them separately.
Stroller gloves are ideal for colder temperatures. They allow parents to grasp the handlebars of the stroller without having to remove their gloves. A stroller organizer is an excellent accessory that provides ultimate convenience. It helps keep essentials such as keys, phones, and bus passes in one spot.
A luggage tag is an excellent way to identify your pushchair while out and out and about. It is helpful to have your name and contact information in case the pushchair gets lost or stolen.
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