Double Pram Pushchair: The Good The Bad And The Ugly
Buying a Double Pram Pushchair
If you're expecting twins, or have a toddler and newborn, then a double pram pushchair is a must to make travelling with both children more convenient. Many models come with two seats with padded seating facing the world, which can be reversible so that siblings can sit together or face their parents as well as a rumble-style seat for older children that is more upright and easier to use.
Features
When purchasing a double pushchair, the versatility of the product is an important consideration. There are numerous options available, whether you want something that will grow with your family or be a solution for taking your child from infant to toddler.
Double prams are a great option for families with busy schedules. Find features that help them to navigate rough terrain and urban environments. The right double pram will be able to maneuver through busy streets or narrow aisles at stores. A clever folding mechanism makes it easy to store in your home or load into the car's boot.
The length and width of double prams will determine whether it's able to fit through your front or other doors that you use. Side-by-side double prams tend to be more narrow than tandem models, but it's important to check the dimensions of your selected model to make sure it can fit through any doors you regularly use.
Reversible seats are offered on some of the best double prams. This allows you to decide if your children will sit with one another or the parent. This allows them to socialize and interact with each other while you run errands. Some double prams are equipped with adjustable footrests and seat pads to keep your children comfortable.
Lastly, it's worth considering a double pram that can be used in conjunction with a baby capsule, bassinet or carrycot. This allows you to use it as a single pram for your older child, and then add on a second seat or bassinet when the newborn arrives. This will save space and money when compared to purchasing two separate prams at different times in your family's lives.
The ability to recline the seats and the canopy at the touch of a single button is a neat feature you should look for in a double pushchair. This allows you to create a cosy lie-flat environment for your infant or toddler to nap during long journeys. The Joolz Venus, for example is a reclining toddler seat and add-on RumbleSeat that can be reclined to multiple positions with the press of the button. Its padded, removable seats are extremely comfortable. The huge UPF 50+ canopy and peekaboo windows provide ample shade.
Styles
A double pram is a must for families with twins or children close in age that are looking to spend time with each other on family outings. There are many double pram pushchairs to pick from, and deciding which one is best for your family can be a tough choice. Some of the most common designs include single-to-dual, side by-side and tandem. Side-by-side strollers are perfect for families, as they provide the same level of visibility and seating that allow children to interact. It is important to remember that they can be larger and heavier and therefore less maneuverable in busy areas or on public transport.
Dual-toddler prams on the other hand, have an efficient layout with two toddler seats that recline and adapt to the needs of your child. They can also accommodate a second car seat or carrycot, which makes them ideal for twins or two children of similar age.
Side-by-side prams that are not convertible can't stop sibling fights since it's possible for a child to kick or punch another child while sitting. These prams are not practical for children who have different developmental milestones because they need to change their seating positions throughout the day.
Tandem prams are a popular option as they offer plenty of room for your growing family while allowing you to enjoy the outdoors. They are a great option for siblings who are close in age because they encourage interaction and can be customized with various seating options to suit your family's needs. They can be large and wide, which makes them less mobile than convertible or single prams. They can also be difficult to fit in doors.
The single-to-dual Cybex Wave is a popular and unique design. It lets you use the pushchair in 30 configurations starting from newborns to 4 years old, with the addition of a tandem car seat, the second carrycot, or infant car seat. This innovative design will help you save money since it eliminates the need to buy an additional pram for older children. It also looks amazing!
Size
The size of the double pram is an important aspect to take into consideration when choosing the perfect pushchair. Double strollers tend to be wider than single prams and often have a larger footprint due to the extra seat. This means they may be a bit longer, too. It is important to check the dimensions to make sure your new vehicle will pass through hallways and doors at home before purchasing.
Side-by-side double prams, like the Bugaboo Donkey 5, are ideal for siblings that are close in age. Both seats have a view of their surroundings and offer a variety of seating options that foster interaction between children. This kind of double pram is large and might not fit through some doors. It is ideal for homes with large entryways.
Tandem double prams, such as the CYBEX Gazelle S lightweight twin stroller Pram, are made specifically for twins or siblings who are close in age and can be used from birth through the use of a baby car seat adapter. They can be transformed into a single to double buggy pushchair by adding a carrycot or a bassinet. This makes them easier to maneuver on public transport.
Reclined seats are yet another feature that you should look for in a double stroller for twins stroller. They offer more comfort and flexibility for both children. They allow one child to lie down to sleep while the other sits up, and are the perfect choice for babies all the way to toddlers.
Storage space is another thing to keep an eye for when purchasing double prams, since many models offer ample storage solutions to stow everything you need and extras. This will help reduce the need for additional bags and backpacks, which will make travel more practical.
Some double prams feature adjustable handlebars, which is a fantastic feature for parents of all heights. You can adjust the handlebars to suit your height. This makes it easy for taller parents to not lower their feet and for smaller parents to maintain their posture while pushing the buggy.
Safety
A quality small double stroller pram should be secured with a harness that is simple to fasten or unfasten. Look for buckles with five points (one strap over each leg and arm and a fifth that comes out from the center of the seat). It is also beneficial to have padded seats with generous padding around the head, shoulders, and legs and a large shopping basket that can accommodate both kids' items.
A solid chassis and a locking brake are crucial security features, particularly for those who travel downhill. Some models even have a telescopic handlebar, which allows you to adjust the height of the handle so you can easily move the stroller.
The best double prams for twins or siblings should have two toddler seats. However, they may also be able to accommodate the infant car seat and a bassinet/carry cot for newborns. They could also come with an ample shopping basket, as well as features like an extendable sun canopy and parent consoles.
It isn't easy to pick the right double stroller that is suitable for you and your family. Convertible prams are a great option when you are planning to have another child within three years. They can be converted to one stroller. A tandem double stroller can be a great option for parents looking to keep their children close in age.
It's important to note that both styles have their own disadvantages. For example seats in a side-by-side double stroller may be positioned in a way that isn't ideal and can result in siblings fighting over the best seat to use. It is also recommended to choose a model that has a smooth-folding mechanism. This makes it easier to put in the boot of your vehicle, navigate public transport, or store at home. It must also be easy to maneuver, whether steering it down the busy roads or through narrow entranceways. Also, be aware of the weight of the pram as it will impact the ease with which you move it around.