What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish pram which is fashionable and practical. It is easy to assemble and can be transformed into double. It also comes with an enormous storage basket.

This amazing travel system allows you to "future secure" by incorporating a compatible carrycot and car seat. It can be folded quickly and easily with one hand, and can be reassembled when folded.

Seat

A pram is likely to be one of the most used items of baby equipment that you purchase so it's important that it's comfortable for your young one. Make sure you choose a model with adjustable handlebars, a comfortable seat padding and a reclining function so that you can easily lay your child down. It's also worth checking that the pushchair is placed in either 'parent-facing' (or rear-facing) or "world facing" in case your child is older and wants to observe what's going on around them.

The Graco Near2Me features a neat feature that lets parents keep their baby close and maintain eye contact. This is a wonderful option for babies and newborns and was loved by our parent tester Jaya as being a lovely way to make your child feel loved and loved.

It's important to consider the overall size of the pram when selecting, as you do not want it to take up too much space in your car trunk or your living space. To ensure it's suitable it, pick a model that can fold and fold in a compact manner. Check how easy it is to fold it and read reviews (like those on MadeForMums) to get a clear impression of how easy or difficult it is to move fold, store and store.

A high-quality pram must be able to fold flat when folded. This will ensure that your baby has a fully supported lie down throughout the first six months, which is crucial for their development. Check that the pram you're considering is able to 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 give your child the ride they need. There are 3 common wheel types - rubber foam and EVA (harder plastic type). Each type has pros and cons depending on what you intend to use your pushchair for.

Rubber wheels are most common and provide great grip on all surfaces. They can be punctured using a car tyre compressor to over inflate them. This is not a common problem and is usually caused by someone who has inflated the wheels too much. This type of wheel is typically used on all-terrain buggies, as well as running buggies.

PU or Polyurethane wheels are filled with foam making them lighter than rubber tyres. They do not have the same shock-absorbing capabilities and can feel more abrasive on rough concrete surfaces. They are more often seen on prams rather than strollers and are generally the lowest cost option.

EVA or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate is a stronger plastic that is lightweight and has some characteristics of rubber, but not as much. It can be used to replace PU or rubber in your pram for its low maintenance and weight reduction.

It is important to have a reliable brake system in your pushchair. This will safeguard you, your child and other pedestrians. Most pushchairs have a brake pedal located on the rear of the chassis and can be activated by pressing a lever or button on the handlebars or Pram pressing down with your feet. The brakes should be easy to operate and should be locked as soon as you press them. Some pushchairs also feature a mid-wheel brake for added stability and control.

Carrycot

The carrycot is a lightweight portable cot that attaches to the chassis of a pushchair. It is ideal for newborns and babies up to six months of age, as they have to lay flat in order to develop their spine and lungs. A pram with carrycot is a great choice for parents who have only a tiny boot or use public transport frequently.

Some prams come with an inbuilt carrycot that folds away into the frame of the pushchair so it is easy to switch between carriage and seat mode. This is a great option for families with a tiny car boot or those who have to use public transport a lot as it can save time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 is an example of this and has a high score with MFM home testers, and also winning Gold in our previous MadeForMums awards. It's also a good choice for new parents who are on a tight budget, as it's affordable yet looks and feels high-end as well as being strong, light and compact when folded.

If you're looking for a luxurious single-to-double pushchair that is suitable for babies from birth and is used with a carrycot or a baby cocoon, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the perfect choice. This stunning pushchair comes with lay-flat carrycots an sling seat made of fabric and a baby cocoon to provide the most comfortable sleeping environment that is secure and comfortable for twins.

It's also a soft, nippy and light-steering rider, which is ideal for urban areas. It is easy to navigate busy roads and pavements while on the move. Plus, it's incredibly easy to install and comes with lots of accessories such as a rain cover, footmuff, and hood.

Canopy

A pram canopy will protect your child from the elements and provide a comfortable place for them to rest. It's also great for preventing sunburn and heat stroke by blocking the harsh sun's rays. Some models come with an open or mesh back section that can be unzipped to monitor the little snoozer.

A hood is especially useful in winter as it protects your baby's sensitive skin from cold winds and rain. Some models come with rain covers that can be easily popped over the pram's canopy, and secured by poppers. If you prefer, you can buy an umbrella that is attached to the pram with magnets and is simple to fold away when not in use.

If you decide to go with a pram or pushchair, choosing the most suitable model is a crucial decision and one that you will use often for a long time. As your baby grows, you will want to make sure they're comfortable and safe on every journey. A good quality pram/pushchair will be able to provide a gentle spine support and prevent them from getting tired when they take long rides or long walks.

It's worth noting that pushchairs tend to be more targeted towards newborns and babies, as they often come with a bassinet or carrycot that lets you lay them flat, while pushchairs are generally more versatile and can be converted into seats as your baby gets older. If you're having trouble deciding which type of pram or pushchair is best for your needs, our expert team are happy to help contact us or visit our store.

Storage

There are numerous options for storage for prams, depending on your budget and the space available. A shed is a great choice if you have the space, as it will shield the pram from weather damage and keep it away from the path when not in use. It is also a good option for those who reside in an area that experiences frequent snowfall or rainfall.

A shed is usually constructed of metal or wood, and has a door that allows easy access. It may also come with locks or other security features. Another option that is popular is a garage, which will protect you from elements and will be close to your vehicle if this is what you use.

If you don't have a garage or shed, you can put your pram in a closet within your home. It will be kept out of sight, so you don't have to glance at it every time you go into your home or the nursery. It could be difficult to reach if are hosting guests.

To maintain your pushchair travel system it's best to keep it clean. It will look great and free of stains and mildew. Begin by vacuuming the hood with a small attachment, or rinsing in cool, soapy water. Then, use a gentle sterilising agent or a fabric brush to clean any stain. It's important to remember to dry the fabric completely outside to stop mould and mildew from spreading. You can also purchase an item that can help remove the most stubborn stains and leave your pushchair looking like new again.