Cambridge Education

Buying a Pushchair Stroller

A good pushchair stroller is one that is easy to use. Choose one that's comfortable for sandals and comes with an easy parking brake to set and release and can stand up straight without needing to lift it up.

Some pushchairs can be converted to a double and have separate carrycot and seat units to grow with your family. Find one with a hood that's SPF/UPF 50+ and a shade.

Comfort

The pushchair will likely be used for long periods of time, therefore it's important that it's comfortable for both the baby as well as the parent. The padding on the seat should be a good fit to your child's needs and the handlebars need to be adjustable to a comfortable height. You may also want take a look at the recline feature Some have multiple positions while others offer an upright position that is suitable for babies.

Different manufacturers employ different terms to describe their products. However prams, a pushchair newborn, and strollers are usually made for older children or toddlers. Prams tend to have the traditional carriage design and a larger frame while a stroller is typically lighter and compact. Prams can often convert into an infant stroller seat so you are able to use them as your child develops.

Many people choose to use a pram for their newborn baby because it has a spacious carrycot that allows the baby to lay flat and in a bed like environment. This is perfect for naps and travel. They can be set to face either the parent or the world, which is ideal for parents who wish to monitor their child while on their journeys.

If your pram does not have a lie-flat option, you should consider investing in a separate carrycot that can be affixed to the chassis of your pram. These carrycots enable your baby to sleep in an upright position, which is essential for spinal and lung development.

A stroller or pushchair should be easy to maneuver and have strong, lightweight frames that is built and designed to be used on smooth surfaces. Try a stroller from a friend to see how it performs and if you are able to easily turn it and navigate it around tight corners. A one-handed steering system is ideal since it allows you to keep hold of your shopping bags and handlebars at the same time.

Strollers can fold up for easy storage and transportation. They are smaller and lighter compared to prams. They are more suited for jogging and travelling long distances, and some have extra features such as sunshades, cup holders or hoods that can be adjusted. They are an excellent choice for families with toddlers and infants who can sit straight and enjoy the ride.

Safety

A stroller should always be used with a child in it and should never be left unattended. Avoid overloading it with bags of heavy weight and ensure it's not stuffed with too much as this could cause it to fall over, especially if you are going up or down slopes. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the maximum weight for the basket and any other areas you can hang things from since it is crucial to keep your the baby safe. Find a basket that has lids that are secure to prevent toddlers or babies from getting their fingers caught in the gap.

A pushchair egg (also known as buggy or pram) should always have a five-point safety harness that fits over the shoulder, around the waist and in between the legs. It is also recommended to purchase a rain cover to shield your child from the elements. Straps and plastic links are also an excellent option to stop toys from falling out or becoming lost.

You can enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride by selecting an air-filled stroller instead of solid rubber ones. These tyres function similar to bicycle tyres, and offer a more comfortable ride. They also absorb road bumps without feeling them. They are more susceptible to punctures, but they are less susceptible than rubber tyres. It is therefore recommended to carry a puncture-repair kit just in case.

Many parents opt to purchase an infant stroller with a reclined seating position to allow their baby to lay back and relax during walks or outings. Recent research suggests that babies kept in an upright position for too long may develop breathing problems. You should only use a stroller with a reclining seat after your baby reaches six months.

Find a stroller that has brakes that are simple to operate and remain locked when used. If you're purchasing an older model, make sure that the brakes are in good working condition prior to using it with your child. Certain older models may have a lever for the brake that is located high where toddlers can reach it. This is a potential danger and you must replace the lever with a new one so that your child cannot reach it while in the pushchair.

Style

If you are looking for a pushchair stroller (speaking of) that is suitable for uneven and rocky terrain, you should consider whether it comes with locking swivel wheels that can be locked. If not, you'll need to rely on a good suspension system, which could cost more than a standard pushchair, but is beneficial for off-road travel and trips where the ground may be rough.

If your child is young, you should choose a pram that has an adjustable seat that can be placed flat. Research suggests that infants who are not in a straight position may be stressed when traveling for long periods of time and be experiencing breathing issues. This is why it is advised to only travel short distances with an infant in a non-lay flat pushchair.

If your baby is getting older and able to sit on their own, you may consider a stroller for a pushchair. These are usually simpler than prams and can fold up pushchair to fit in your car's boot. They are also great for toddlers that can walk on their own.

Both types of pushchairs can be purchased in a variety of styles and colours to match your personal preferences and style. Many pushchairs are equipped with matching accessories to make your baby's journey more enjoyable. For example, you can purchase a matching changing bag to ensure that your baby is snug and warm when out on adventures. You could also include a Platinum Winter Footmuff which has a real down and feather blend filling to withstand cold winter temperatures.

If you're considering buying a 3-in-1 or 2-in-1 pushchair that can transform or recline, then ensure you read the guidelines of the manufacturer for how to maintain and clean it. It will differ from brand to manufacturer, but generally, you will need to look for a fabric with a soft wash that is easy to clean by a damp cloth. If your pushchair will be exposed to dust or mud, then it might be recommended to wash the wheels with a hosepipe and soapy water to prevent scuff marks.

Accessories

There are a variety of accessories for pushchairs to improve comfort, functionality and design. Some are essentials for all parents and others can be customized to meet the needs of each individual.

A carrycot is a must-have accessory for newborns because it offers a secure place to rest. It can be easily connected to a pushchair and has handles for when it is not being used. Carrycots are also equipped with a large hood that protects children from the elements.

A changing bag is another essential item to have. It's designed to accommodate everything you require during a day with your child. They feature handy straps and are perfect for keeping wipes, diapers clothes, bottles and snacks in reach.

A pushchair umbrella can be an excellent investment for rainy days. Usually made of waterproof material, they are designed to fit the frame of the stroller to ensure a secure and precise fit. Raincovers can be used on strollers and car seats.

As your family grows you may wish to add a second chair or a ride-on board to the stroller. These devices that resemble skateboards can be connected to the lower sections of the frame of the stroller so that older children can ride along. Most brands offer dedicated adapters for their ride-on boards, making sure that the user experience is as easy as possible.

A footmuff is a crucial accessory during winter to keep babies warm thanks to its soft liner and waterproof exterior. Many pushchairs have an accessory for a footmuff within their range or you can buy the item separately.

Stroller mittens are ideal for colder temperatures, allowing parents to grip the handlebars without removing their gloves or putting them back on each time they have to utilize the brake pedal. For the ultimate convenience the stroller organizer is an excellent accessory, keeping essentials like keys, phones, bus passes and travel flasks all in one place to make it easy to access.

A luggage tag can be a useful way to identify your stroller when out and about. It's helpful to keep your contact details and name in case your pushchair is stolen or lost.