What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish stroller that is stylish and practical. It is easy to assemble and can be transformed into a double. It also has an enormous storage basket.

A great travel system that makes it simple to "future-proof" by adding an appropriate car seat and carrycot. It folds easily by hand and is free-standing when collapsed.

Seat

It's likely that your baby will be using the pram a lot and therefore it's crucial to ensure it's comfortable. Find models with adjustable handlebars, comfortable seat padding and a recline feature so that you can easily put your child to bed. Check that the pushchair has an 'parent facing (or rear facing)' or 'world-facing' setting for children who want to observe more of what's going on around them.

The Graco Near2Me features an innovative feature that allows parents to keep their baby close and maintain eye contact. Jaya one of our testers, a parent, praised this as an excellent option for infants and newborns.

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

A good quality folding pram must be able to fold flat when folded, making sure that your baby is able to have a fully supported lie down throughout the first six months, which is essential for their development. Make sure the pram you're interested in is able to do this and that it is compatible with a car seat if needed.

Wheels

The wheels are what move the triple pram, and offer your child a smooth ride. There are 3 common wheel types: rubber, foam, and EVA (harder plastic type). Each has pros and cons, based on what you plan to use your pushchair for.

Rubber wheels are most common, and they provide excellent grip on all surfaces. The only drawback is that they may be punctured if inflated too hard by an auto tyre pump. However it is usually due to someone over-inflating them and isn't a regular issue. This wheel type is often used on all-terrain and running buggies.

PU or Polyurethane Wheels are made of foam, making them lighter than rubber tires. They don't have the same shock-absorbing capability and can sometimes feel more harsh on concrete surfaces that are rough. They are seen more on prams than strollers and are generally the lowest cost option.

EVA or Ethylene vinyl Acetate, is a material that shares some of the characteristics of rubber, and is lighter. It can be used in lieu of rubber or PU to keep it in good condition and also to reduce the overall weight of your pram.

It is important to have reliable brakes in your pushchair. This will safeguard you as well as your child and other pedestrians. Most pushchairs come with brake pedals that are located on the rear of the chassis. It can be activated by pressing a lever, or button on the handlebars or by pressing down your foot. The brakes must be easy to use and should lock immediately when you press them. Some pushchairs have a brake on the middle wheel to provide extra stability and control.

Carrycot

The carrycot is an easy-to-use portable cot that can be affixed to the chassis of any pushchair. It's a great choice for newborns up to around six months old, as they must lie flat in order to support their spinal and lung development. A carrycot-style pram is an excellent option for parents who are short in space or have a small car boot, or who take public transport frequently.

Some prams come with a built-in carrying cot that can be folded into the frame. This allows you to quickly switch between carriage and seat modes. This is an excellent option for families with a tiny car boot or who have to travel by public transport a lot since it will save time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 is a good example of this and has scored highly with MFM home testers, as well as 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 reasonably priced, yet is stylish and luxurious as well as being robust, lightweight and compact when folded.

If you're in search of a high-end single to double pushchair that is suitable from birth and used with a carrycot or a baby cocoon, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the perfect choice. This stunning pram includes a lay-flat carrycot, a fabric sling seat and an infant cocoon to create the ultimate sleeping solution that is secure and comfortable for twins.

It's also a nippy easy-rider, with a light steering which is perfect for urban environments, so you can easily navigate through traffic-heavy roads and pavements on the go. Additionally, it's extremely simple to set up and comes with plenty of accessories like rain cover, footmuff and hood.

Canopy

A pram canopy will protect your child from the elements while offering an ideal place to rest. It can also help prevent sunburns and heatstroke by blocking the harsh rays from the sun. Some models have a mesh back or peekaboo section that can be unzipped to monitor the tiny snoozer.

A hood is especially useful in winter too as it protects your baby's sensitive skin from cold wind and rain. Some models include a rain cover that can be easily put over the canopy of the pram and secured using poppers. If you prefer, you can buy an umbrella that attaches to the pram using magnets and is easy to fold away when not in use.

Your pram or pushchair for a number of years to come, so picking the best one is a critical decision. As your baby grows, you'll want to ensure they're safe and comfortable during every journey. A good quality pram/pushchair is one that can help your baby's spine stay in a comfortable position and prevent them from becoming tired on long rides or walks.

Pushchairs can be transformed into a seat when your baby grows older. They are more versatile than prams. If you're struggling to decide which type of pram or pushchair is best for your needs, our expert team is here to assist - give us a call or drop by our store.

Storage

There are numerous options for pram storage, depending on your budget as well as the space available. A shed is a great option if you have the room, as it will protect the pram from damage caused by weather and keep it out of the way when it's not being used. It's also a good option if you reside in an area that experiences frequent snowfall or rainfall.

A shed is usually constructed of metal or wood, and is equipped with a door that permits easy access. It could also come with a lock and other security features. A garage is another popular option as it will provide protection from the elements and be close to your car if you're using it for transportation.

If you do not have a garage or shed, you can put your pram in a closet inside your home. This will keep it out of sight and will not require you to glance at it every time you enter your home or nursery. However, it could be difficult to access if you have guests visiting.

You'll have to clean your pushchair cheap if you want to maintain it. This will ensure it looks fantastic and is free of mildew and stains. Start by vacuuming the hood with a small attachment or by rinsing it with cool soapy water. Then, use a gentle cleaning agent or fabric brush to clean any stains. Remember to dry the fabric on the outside to prevent mildew and mould from spreading. You can also purchase a cleaner to remove stubborn stains making your pushchair look like new.