What to Look For in push chairs and cheap prams (why not find out more)

The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams are designed to transport newborns and young babies with a lie-flat seat.

Prams can also come with a carrycot or bassinet for newborns. Some can be converted into a pushchair when the baby is older.

If you plan to take public transportation or fold your pushchair often, choose a lightweight and compact buggy.

Comfort

Your pushchair will probably be more frequently used than your nappies and bottles. As such, it's important to make sure your child is comfortable during every trip by choosing one with plenty of padding and a comfortable seat that can be adjusted for the height of your child.

It's also worth noting that many prams, buggies and pushchairs come with a pram blanket, which can help to keep your child warm. These blankets are simple to clean and come in a variety of colors and designs.

A pram is made for newborn babies up to approximately six months old as they're in the stage of development in which they have to lie flat, typically with a carrycot or bassinet attached to the frame. Most prams have a choice of facing the parents and the world facing', meaning you can choose whether to have your baby face you for bonding or to allow them to explore the sights and sounds around them. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 – a luxurious single-to-double pushchair that can be used from birth using a carrycot and up to 25kg (15kg using elevators).

The most important thing to remember is that babies who are very young shouldn't be using any pushchair that doesn't recline completely to a flat position. This is because travelling in a position that is prone to slumber could affect their breathing because it causes them to breathe in more air than they normally do and could cause respiratory problems in the longer term.

A pushchair is a seat that folds down into a compact size. It's made for older babies and toddlers. They're typically made of a more durable material than a pram and you will typically find models that let you change the direction of the seat so that your baby can either face towards you for reassurance or away from you so that they can explore the world around them.

Safety

It is essential to ensure that your baby is safe in a pushchair or pram. Always put your baby in a pram or pram that is made for his age and size. This will ensure that they feel safe and secure, and will prevent accidents. When buying a second-hand stroller or pushchair it is crucial to conduct visual safety checks. This will ensure it's in good condition and not damaged in a way that could cause harm to your child.

When choosing a pushchair or pram make sure you choose one with a safety harness that has quick and easy clips and connections. Verify that the buckles are not loose and that the straps fit snugly around your child's waist. Also, look for a wide base, which will offer more stability than models that have narrow bases.

Be careful not to overload your pram or pushchair with items. This could cause it to tip and your baby might be thrown out. Don't put anything that could harm your baby inside the basket, including drinks, snacks, or toys.

Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean your pushchair or pram. If you're washing the fabric or cleaning the hood, always dry it thoroughly outside to avoid any mildew or mould forming.

It's a great idea to wash the removable footmuff on your pram or pushchair before you return to it in winter. It's as simple as removing the fabric and washing it in cool soapy water, then leaving it to air dry outdoors. It's also an excellent idea to scrub any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.

Experts advise that babies sit flat in a stroller or pram as soon as they can. This will help their development and lessen back problems later in life.

Manufacturers and retailers have obligations under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to offer products that are safe for normal or reasonably foreseeable use. This is the case for new pushchairs and prams as well as second-hand ones.

Style

While some parents are after the most functional set of wheels they can find most parents would prefer an infant stroller or pushchair car seat that is as stylish as their new child's toy. There are plenty of high-end prams and pushchairs available that combine high-end engineering with fetching designs that are as striking as they are practical.

When selecting a pram or pushchair, the first thing to be thinking about is the padding for the seat. Babies can be messy creatures and therefore having a pushchair that's easy to clean is important. This is particularly true when you plan to use your stroller for long walks over rough terrain, or on dirt and gravel. Choose a stroller with removable seat covers and recline mechanisms that can be machine washed. Make sure the fabric can be machine washed to keep your baby dry and comfortable.

Another thing to think about is the direction that your baby will be facing in their pushchair. The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow you to change the seat between parent facing (facing towards the parent for bonding and reassurance) or facing the world so that they can explore the world around them. Some prams pushchairs have this option, but it's not a requirement for all models.

Combination prams, also referred to as 3-in-1 prams, are a popular option for families since they can fit both an infant basket and an infant seat on the same frame. They are usually designed to be used starting at birth and are suitable for babies up to six months.

A travel system is a similar option to a combined pram, as it permits the fitting of car seats on the frame too, usually by using adaptors. They are perfect for babies and toddlers up to three years old. They can be less expensive than buying separate items.

Twin prams and pushchairs can be an ideal choice for twins or siblings who require comfort and security. They are available in a variety of styles and can be fitted with a single car seat or a double.

Stores

A pram or pushchair should not only be safe and comfortable for your child, but also offer ample storage for all of the essentials. Look for models with an ample shopping basket that can contain all your baby's necessities like spare clothes as well as changing equipment, bottles of water and even snacks. Some include a parent or child's compartment that is ideal for keeping all your personal belongings. If you're looking to purchase a stroller with more storage space consider a convertible pushchair that comes with multiple configurations. Having extra space is especially important if you're planning on take your child on long walks or trips away from home and require an area to store anything you might require.

Another key feature to consider is the ability to maneuver. Opt for swivel wheels so you can effortlessly navigate narrow spaces and also look for locking brakes that are able to stop quickly. If you're looking at an ultra-lightweight model, make sure that it has the appropriate suspension system and foldable dimensions to facilitate storage and transport. Alternatively, if you want something more sturdy for off-road use, select one with sturdy all-terrain wheels that are able to be able to withstand rougher terrain than pavements.

A pram is designed to offer a flat sleeping position for infants. A pushchair is better suited for older babies and toddlers that can sit up independently. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs, by removing the bassinet, and replacing it with an adult's seat. Other models, like the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle can convert into a carrycot, or car seat.

Whichever type of pram or pushchair you pick, make sure to read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends and family. If possible, test-drive a few options before making your choice to get an impression of how they feel and fold, and how heavy they are. You might also want to think about whether a convertible model is the right option for you, because they can be used interchangeably between one or two babies, and you can reduce the cost of buying a new set of wheels each time your little one grows up!