What to Look For in a
Pram PushchairA stylish stroller that is stylish and practical. It is easy to build and can be converted into double. It also comes with an enormous storage basket.
A great travel system that makes it simple to "future-proof" by adding the appropriate car seat and carrycot. It can be folded neatly and easily with just one hand, and it stands up when collapsed.
Seat
A pram is likely to be among the most used items of baby equipment that you purchase therefore it's essential to ensure it is comfortable for your little one. Look for models that have adjustable handlebars, comfortable seats padding and a recline feature so you can put your child to bed. Check that the pushchair has an 'parent facing (or rear facing)' or 'world-facing' setting for children who want to see more of what's happening around them.
The Graco Near2Me has an interesting feature that allows parents to keep their child close and maintain eye contact. This is a wonderful option for newborns and babies and was loved by our parent tester Jaya as a wonderful way to make your child feel loved and loved.
When you're choosing a
stroller you should think about the overall size. You don't want to have be concerned about it taking up too much space in your home or vehicle. To ensure it's suitable it, pick a model that can fold and fold compactly. Find out how easy it is to do this and read reviews (like those on MadeForMums) for a real idea of how easy or difficult it is to move, fold and store.
A quality pram should be able to lay flat when folded, making sure that your baby is able to have a fully supported lie down throughout the first six months, which is crucial for their development. Make sure the pram you are looking at can do this, and also that it is compatible with a car seat should it be required.
Wheels
The wheels are what propel the pram, and offer your child a safe ride. There are 3 common wheel types - rubber, foam and EVA (harder plastic type). Each wheel type has its pros and cons depending on how you intend to use your stroller.
Rubber wheels are the most commonly used, and they provide excellent grip on all surfaces. The only drawback is that they could be punctured if they are inflated too quickly with an auto tyre pump. This is not a frequent issue and is usually caused by someone over-inflating the wheel. This type of wheel is commonly used on all-terrain and running buggies.
PU or Polyurethane wheels are foam filled making them lighter than rubber tyres. They don't have the same shock-absorbing capabilities and can feel more abrasive on concrete surfaces that are rough. They are often seen on prams than strollers and are usually the cheapest cost option.
EVA or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate is a harder plastic material that is lighter and has some of the characteristics of rubber, but not as much. It can be used to replace PU or rubber in your pram due to its ease of maintenance and weight reduction.
It is essential to have reliable brakes in your pushchair. This will safeguard you, your child and other pedestrians. The majority of pushchairs have brake pedals on the rear of the chassis. It can be activated either by pressing a lever or button on the handlebars, or by pressing down with your foot. The brakes should be simple to use and should be locked immediately when you press them. Some pushchairs also have a mid-wheel brake for added stability and control.
Carrycot
The carrycot is a lightweight portable cot that connects to the frame of the pushchair. It's a great choice for newborns up to around six months old since they require a flat position and be able to breathe, which is crucial for their lung and spine development. A pram with a carrycot is a great option for parents with a little space, a small boot or use public transport frequently.
Some prams are equipped with a carrying cot that can fold into the frame. This allows you to easily change between carriage and seat modes. This is an excellent option for families with a small car boot or who have to use public transport often since it will save time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 has been highly reviewed by MFM home testers and has won Gold in our previous MadeForMums Awards. It's also a great choice for new parents on a budget as it's reasonably priced, yet is stylish and luxurious and is sturdy, lightweight and compact when folded.
If you're looking for a luxurious single-to-double pushchair that can be used for babies from birth and is used with a carrycot and a carrycot, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the ideal option. This gorgeous pram comes with lay-flat carrycots, a fabric sling seat and a baby cocoon to provide the ideal sleeping solution that is secure and comfortable for your twins.
It's also a soft, nippy and light-steering driver, which is ideal for urban areas. It is easy to navigate through busy streets and pavements while on the move. It's also incredibly easy and comes with a wide range of accessories, such as rain covers, a footmuff and hood.
Canopy
A pram canopy is great to shield your child from the elements and also providing a cosy spot for them to snooze. It also helps prevent heat stroke and sunburn by blocking out the harsh rays of the sun. Some models feature an open window, or you can unzip the back mesh so you can keep an eye on your little snoozer and not disturb them.
In winter, a hood is an excellent way to shield your baby's delicate skin from the elements and rain. Certain models come with rain covers that can be easily popped over the canopy of the pram, and secured with poppers. You can also buy an umbrella that is attached by magnets to the pram and folds away when not being used.
Whether you opt for a pushchair or pram, selecting the right model is a huge decision and one that you will be using often for a long time. As your baby grows and develops you'll want to ensure they are safe and comfortable on every trip. A high-quality
pram and car seat or pushchair is one that can help your baby's spine stay in a comfortable position and stop them from getting tired when they take long walks or bumpy rides.
Pushchairs can be converted into a seat once your baby gets older. They are more versatile than
prams for newborns. Our knowledgeable team is available to help you if you aren't sure which pram or pushchair is suitable for your needs. Call us or visit our store.
Stores
There are many options for pram storage, depending on your budget and the space available. If you have space sheds are a great option to protect your pram from damage caused by the elements and keep it out the way when not in use. It's also a great option when you live in an area with frequent snowfall or rainfall.
A shed is constructed from wood or metal and comes with a door that allows easy access. It could also come with the security of a lock as well as other features. Garages are a popular option, since it can provide protection from the elements and be close to your car, if you're using that for transport.
If you don't have a garage, you can store the pram in the closet of your home. It will be hidden and won't be visible when you walk into the house or nursery. However, it may be difficult to access if you have guests in your home.
To keep your pushchair clean it's best to clean it regularly. This will ensure that it looks great and free of mildew and stains. To clean a hood, begin by vacuuming it with a small attachment or rinsing it in cool soapy water. Then, apply a gentle sterilising agent or a fabric brush to remove any stain. Remember to dry the fabric outside to stop mould and mildew from spreading. You can also buy an item that can help remove stubborn stains and make your pushchair look like new again.