What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish and elegant pram that is stylish and practical. It is simple to put together and can be converted into a double. It also comes with an enormous storage basket.

This amazing travel system allows you to "future secure" by incorporating an adaptable carrycot and car seat. Plus, it folds up easily using just one hand and is free-standing when folded.

Seat

It is likely that your child will be using the pram frequently and it's important that it is comfortable. Choose a model with a comfortable cushioning for the seat, a handlebar that is adjustable in height, and recline feature that allows you to lay your child down. Make sure that the pushchair features a 'parent-facing' (or rear facing)' or 'world-facing' setting if your child wants to observe more of what's going on around them.

The Graco Near2Me has an interesting feature that lets parents keep their child close and keep eye contact. This is a wonderful option for newborns and babies and was loved by our parent tester Jaya as a great method to make your child feel special and loved.

It's important to consider the overall size of a pram when selecting, as you don't want it to take up too much space in the trunk of your car or in your living space. Choose a model that can be folded up easily and is compact when collapsed to ensure it fits. Check how easy it is to fold and then read reviews (like those on MadeForMums) to get a clear idea of how easy or difficult it is to maneuver fold and store.

A quality pram should be able to lie completely flat when folded, making sure that your baby is able to have a comfortable and safe sleep throughout the first six months, which is crucial for their development. Make sure the pram you're interested in can do this, and that it is compatible with a car seat if needed.

Wheels

The wheels of a pram pushchair are what allow it to move and give your child the ride they need. There are three common wheel types - rubber foam and EVA (harder plastic type). Each wheel type has its pros and con depending on the way you plan to use your stroller.

Rubber wheels are the most commonly used, and they provide excellent grip on all surfaces. They can be punctured using a car tyre compressor to blow them up too hard. However it is usually due to someone over inflating them and isn't a regular problem. This type of wheel is typically used on all-terrain and running buggies.

PU or Polyurethane wheels are filled with foam making them lighter than rubber tyres. They don't have the same shock-absorbing ability, and can feel harsher on concrete surfaces that are rough. 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 material that is light and has some of the characteristics of rubber but not as much. It can be used in lieu of rubber or PU for low maintenance and to reduce the weight of your pram.

The presence of reliable and strong brakes on your stroller is a must and will safeguard your baby, you and pedestrians. Most pushchairs feature 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 on your foot. The brakes must be easy to use and should lock immediately after pressing them. Some pushchairs have a brake on the middle wheel for added stability and control.

Carrycot

The carrycot is an easy-to-use portable cot that is able to be attached to the frame of any pushchair. It is a fantastic option for newborns up to around six months old as they must lie flat and be able to breathe, which is crucial for their spinal and lung development. A pram with carrycot is a great choice for parents with a limited space, a small boot or use public transport often.

Some prams have a built-in carrying cot that can be folded into the frame. This lets you easily change between carriage and seat modes. This is an excellent option for families with a small car boot or those who have to travel by public transport a lot because it saves 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 an excellent choice for parents who are on a budget, as it's reasonably priced, yet is luxurious and looks. It's also strong and lightweight. It's also compact when folded.

If you're in search of a high-end single to double pushchair that's suitable from birth and used with a carrycot, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the ideal choice. This pram comes with a lay-flat carrycot plus fabric sling seats, as well as an infant cooon to offer the ultimate sleeping solution for your twins.

It's also a soft, nippy and light-steering driver, which is ideal for urban environments. It's easy to traverse busy roads and pavements while on the move. It's also extremely easy to use and comes with a variety of accessories, including rain cover, a footmuff and the hood.

Canopy

A canopy for your pram will protect your child from the elements while offering a comfortable place for them to sleep. It can also prevent heat stroke and sunburns by blocking the harsh rays of the sun. Some models come with an open or mesh back section that can be unzipped to keep an eye on the snoozer's tiny eyes.

In winter, a hood can be an excellent way to shield your baby's delicate skin from wind and rain. Some models come with rain covers that can be easily put over the canopy of the pram and secured with poppers. Alternatively, you can purchase a separate umbrella which attaches to the pram via magnets and is simple to take down when not in use.

Whether you opt for a pram or triple pushchair, choosing the most suitable model is a crucial choice that you will use regularly for years to come. As your baby grows, you'll need to ensure that they are comfortable and safe throughout every trip. A quality pushchair or pram should be able to help your baby's spine stay in a comfortable position and stop them from becoming tired during long rides or long walks.

It's worth noting that prams tend to be more geared towards infants and newborns in that they usually include a bassinet or carrycot to enable you to lay them flat, while pushchairs tend to be more flexible and can convert to a seat as your baby grows older. If you're unable to decide which type of pram or pushchair is best for your needs, our expert team are happy to help by giving us a call or visit our store.

Storage

There are a number of options for storage for prams based on your budget and the space you have available. If you have the space, a shed is a great option to protect your pram from damage resulting from the weather and keep it out of the way when not in use. It's also a great option for those who reside in a region that has frequent snow or rain.

A shed is usually constructed out of metal or wood and is equipped with a door that permits easy access. It may also have locks and other security features. Another popular option is a garage that will protect you from elements and also be near your vehicle if that's what you use.

If you do not have a garage or shed, you can store your pram in a closet within your home. It will be in a safe place and you won't see it when you walk into the house or nursery. It could be difficult to reach if are hosting guests.

To keep your pushchair in good condition it's best to clean it regularly. This will ensure that it is clean and free from stains and mildew. Start by vacuuming the hood with an attachment that is small, or rinsing in cool, soapy water. You can then use a mild sterilising agent or a fabric brush to get rid of any stains. Remember to dry your fabric outside to stop mould and mildew from spreading. You can also buy a cleaner that will help remove staining that is difficult to remove and make your pushchair look like new again.