What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish pram which is both fashionable and practical. It's simple to put together and converts into a double and has a big storage basket.

A great travel system that allows you to be 'future-proof' by incorporating a compatible car seat and carrycot. Plus, it folds up easily by hand and is free-standing when collapsed.

Seat

A pram is likely to be one of the most used items of baby equipment you buy so it's important that it's comfortable for your little one. Look for models that have adjustable handlebars, a comfortable seat padding, and a recline function so that you can easily put your child to bed. Make sure that the pushchair features a 'parent facing (or rear facing) or 'world-facing' feature if your child wants to be able to see more of what's happening around them.

The Graco Near2Me comes with a neat feature that allows parents to keep their baby close and maintain eye contact. Jaya the tester for our parents said this is an excellent option for infants and newborns.

It is important to think about the overall size of a pram before you choose one, as you don't want it to take up too much space in your car trunk or your living area. Choose a model that can be folded easily and is compact when folded to ensure it fits. You can check whether it is easy or difficult is by reading reviews (like those on MadeForMums).

A quality pram should fold flat, allowing your baby to sleep comfortably for the first six months of their lives. This is crucial for their development. Make sure that the pram you are considering can do this, and that it can be used with a car seat should it be required.

Wheels

The wheels of a pram pushchair are what allow it to move and what give your child the experience they need. There are three wheel types - rubber, foam and EVA (harder plastic type). Each has its pros and cons, based on the purpose you intend to use your pushchair.

Rubber wheels are the most popular and provide great grip on all surfaces. The only drawback is that they can be punctured if inflated too quickly using the pump of a car tyre. However this usually happens due to someone over inflating them and isn't a regular problem. This type of wheel is commonly used on all-terrain and running buggies.

PU or Polyurethane Wheels are made of foam, so they are lighter than rubber tires. They don't have the same shock-absorbing capability and may feel harsh on rough concrete surfaces. They are more often seen on strollers than prams and are usually the cheapest cost option.

EVA or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate is a harder plastic material that is light and has some properties of rubber but not as much. It can be used instead of PU or rubber to keep it in good condition and also to reduce the overall weight of your pram.

The presence of reliable and strong brakes on your stroller is an important feature and can protect your child, you and other pedestrians. Most pushchairs have brake pedals located at the rear of the chassis. It can be activated by pressing a button or lever on the handlebars, or by pressing down with your foot. The brakes should be simple to operate and should lock 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 attaches to the chassis of the pushchair. It is ideal for newborns and babies between six and six months old. age, as they must lay flat in order to develop their spine and lung capacity. A pram with a carrycot is a great option for parents who are tight in space, have a small car boot or who use public transport a lot.

Some prams are equipped with a carrying cot that folds into the frame. This allows you to quickly switch between carriage and seat modes. This is an excellent option for families with a small car boot or who need to use public transport frequently as it can save time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 is a good example of this and has a high score with MFM home testers, as well as winning Gold in our previous MadeForMums awards. It's also a great option for parents on a budget as it's affordable yet looks and feels high-end as well as being robust, lightweight and compact when folded.

If you're looking for a luxury single to double pushchair that's suitable from birth and used with a carrycot, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the ideal choice. It comes with a lay-flat carrycot fabric slings, fabric seats and a baby cooon for the ideal sleeping solution for your twins.

It's also a light, light-steering and smooth rider that is ideal for urban environments which means you can effortlessly navigate the busy roads and pavements on the go. It's also extremely easy to set up and comes with lots of accessories like rain cover, footmuff and hood.

Canopy

A canopy for your pram will protect your child from the elements while providing a comfortable place for them to sleep. It is also great for preventing heat stroke and sunburn by blocking out the harsh rays of the sun. Some models have the option of a peekaboo window or the mesh back 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 a rain cover that can be easily put over the canopy of the pram and secured with poppers. You can also purchase an umbrella that is attached to the pram via magnets and is easy to take down when not in use.

If you decide to go with a pushchair or pram, picking the best model is a major decision and one that you will use frequently for many years to come. As your baby grows, you will want to ensure they are comfortable and safe throughout every trip. A quality pram or pushchair will ensure your baby's spine is supported and keep them comfortable on long walks or bumpy rides.

It's important to note that prams travel system tend to be more orientated towards newborns and babies in that they usually come with a bassinet, or carrycot that allows you to lay them flat, while pushchairs tend to be more flexible and can convert into a seat as your baby grows older. Our knowledgeable team is available to assist you if aren't sure which pram or pushchair is the best for your requirements. Contact us or visit our store.

Stores

There are a variety of options for storage options for prams dependent on your budget and the space available. A shed is a good option if you have the space, since it will shield your pram from weather damage and keep it out of the way when it's not being used. It's also a good option for those who reside in an area that experiences frequent snow or rain.

A shed is typically made of metal or wood, and has a door that allows easy access. It may also have a lock or other security features. Another popular option is a garage that will shield you from the elements and will be close to your vehicle, if that's what you use.

If you don't have a garage, or shed, you can keep your pram in a closet inside your home. This will keep it away from view and you won't have to glance at it every time you enter your house or the nursery. However, it may be difficult to access if have guests in your home.

To keep your pushchair clean it's best to keep it clean. This will ensure that it looks great and free of stains and mildew. Begin by vacuuming the hood with an attachment small in size or washing it in cool, soapy water. Then you can tackle any stains with a fabric brush or a gentle sterilising solution. It's important to remember to dry the fabric completely outside to stop mildew and mould from spreading. You can also purchase a cleaner to remove stubborn stains and make your pushchair appear like new.