Prams 101: A Complete Guide For Beginners
What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams
The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams have a flat seat that is designed to carry babies and newborns.
Prams may also come with a carrycot or bassinet for infants. Some models even have the option of converting to an infant pushchair.
If you are planning to travel by public transport or fold your pushchair regularly, choose a lightweight and compact pushchair.
Comfort
Alongside nappies and bottles, your pushchair will be one of the most frequently used baby items you have. It is important to choose a model that has plenty of padding and a comfortable seating position that can be adjusted to height.
Many prams, buggies, and pushchairs come with a blanket to keep your child warm. These blankets are easy to wash and come in a range of designs and colours.
A pram is designed for infants up to six months of age, when they are still at the point that they must lay flat. Often, a bassinet, or carrycot, will be attached to the frame. The majority of prams have the option of 'parent facing or 'world facing. This enables you to choose whether you prefer your baby to be facing you to connect with you, or explore the sights and sounds of their environment. Some prams are able to be converted into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a deluxe single to double pram pushchair pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).
It is crucial to keep in mind that babies less than six months old should not be transported in a pushchair that isn't able to recline completely flat. A crouching position could affect their breathing since they breathe in more air than they would normally. This could lead to breathing problems in the long run.
A pushchair is a vehicle on wheels that folds usually to a very compact size. It's usually geared towards toddlers and older babies up to the age of about three years old. They're typically constructed of a stronger material than prams. You can also find models that allow you to alter the direction in which the seat faces to allow your child to look at you for comfort or away from you to explore the world.
Safety
The safety of your baby in a pushchair or pram is essential. You should never place your child in a pushchair or pram specifically designed to fit their age and size. This will ensure that they feel secure and safe, and will prevent accidents. When buying a second-hand pushchair or stroller it is crucial to conduct a visual safety check. This will ensure that it's in good condition and not damaged in any way that could pose a risk for your child.
When choosing a pram or running pushchair pick one that comes with a safety harness that is simple and fast clips. Verify that the buckles don't have any looseness and that the straps are secure around your baby's torso. Also, look for a broad base, which will provide greater stability than narrow-based models.
Be careful not to overload your pram or pushchair with items. This can cause the pushchair to fall over, and your baby could be thrown out. Be careful not to put anything that could harm your baby inside the basket, including drinks, snacks, or toys.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your stroller or pram. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, make sure that you dry it thoroughly. This will prevent mould or mildew from forming.
It's a great idea to wash the removable footmuff on your pushchair or pram prior to when you use it again in winter. This can be done by taking the fabric off, washing it in cool water using soap and letting it dry outside. It is also recommended to scrub off any dirt or mud from the axles and wheels.
Experts recommend that infants lay flat as soon as they can in a pushchair or pram. This will help them develop and lower the chance of developing back problems as they grow older.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations of 2005, retailers and manufacturers are required to provide products that will be suitable for normal or predictable use. This applies to new and second-hand prams and strollers.
Style
Some parents are looking for the most efficient set-up of wheels they can get however, many parents require a stroller that is as fashionable as their infant. There are numerous high-end prams for sale and pushchairs that combine top-quality engineering with attractive designs that are both eye-catching and practical.
The first thing you should consider when selecting a pushchair or pram double is the seat padding and adjustability options. A pushchair that is easy to clean will be important for babies, who are often messy. This is especially important when you intend to use your pushchair for long walks on rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Find a pushchair that has removable recline and seat covers that can be machine washed. Check that the fabric can be washed by machine to keep your baby comfortable and dry.
It is also important to consider the direction your baby will be facing in their pushchair. Most pushchairs "from birth" allow you to switch the seat to face towards parents (facing towards the parent for bonding and reassurance) or world facing so they can explore the world around them. Some prams have this option as well but it's not necessary for all models and may be an optional feature.
Combination prams, also known as 3-in-1 prams, are an increasingly popular choice for families as they can accommodate a bassinet basket and an infant seat on the same frame. They are designed to be used from birth and are suitable for children as young as six months old.
A travel system is similar to a stroller combination in that it allows you to attach car seats to the frame using adaptors. These are a great option for babies and toddlers until three years old and are more affordable than buying separate items.
Twin prams and pushchairs are the ideal option for twins or siblings who require safety and comfort. They come in a variety of styles and can be equipped with a single or double car seat.
Storage
Alongside providing security and comfort for your little one, a pushchair or pram needs to offer plenty of storage space for all the necessities. Look for models with a large shopping basket to accommodate all of your baby's necessities like spare clothes and changing equipment, bottles of water, and even snacks. Some models also have a child's or parent's area, which is ideal for storing all your personal things. If you want a pram with more storage opt for a model that comes with multiple configurations. The extra space is important if you're planning to take your baby on long walks or on trips away from home and require storage space for everything you'll require.
Another important aspect to consider is maneuverability. Select swivel wheels to get around narrow spaces easily. Also look for brakes that are locked that have a receptive stopping power. If you're considering a lightweight model, ensure that it has the appropriate suspension system and foldable pushchair dimensions for easy storage and transport. If you're looking for something that is more durable for off-road travel, choose an option with strong, all-terrain wheels that can cope with rougher surfaces than pavements.
The main distinction between a pram and pushchair is that a pushchair offers an easy, flat sleeping position for infants, whereas pushing chairs are more suited to older babies and toddlers who are able to sit up on their own. Some prams are able to be converted into a pushchair by removing the bassinet and replacing it with a seat, while other models, such as the Bababing Raffi complete bundle are all-in-one prams that can be converted into an automobile seat or a carrycot.
If you're unsure of which type of pushchair or pram to select check out online reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations. If you can, test drive a few models prior to making your decision to get an idea of how they feel and how they fold and how heavy they are. Consider a convertible car which can be used for one or two kids. This will save you money since you won't need to purchase a new set of wheels each time your child grows.