What to Look For in Prams, Pushchairs and pushchairs and prams Buggys

If you're in the market for a pram, pushchair or buggy, there are lots of considerations to make. Think about how much you can afford to spend, whether you'd prefer a compact buggy or something larger and how easy to clean it.

Look for models with a reclining seat that can be adjusted to different positions, as well as the bassinet or carrycot for newborns. Check if they lie completely flat as this is essential for your baby's developing spine.

Safety

If you're out and about with your child in a pram or pushchair, it's important that you adhere to safety guidelines to ensure your baby is safe and secure. Avoid overloaded strollers or pushchair to avoid damage or instability. Avoid putting pillows or blankets in the pram as this could be hazardous for your child, particularly if they have an accident. Also, don't allow older children to climb on the stroller or pram as it could pose a risk.

Look for a pushchair with extra padding, particularly in the headrest area to protect your child against bumping into objects while out and around. A parent-facing mode is a great option as it makes it quick and easy to monitor your child and ensure that they are at ease and happy.

Some pushchairs and prams have a bassinet attachment that is perfect for babies to lie on their backs cozy, cocooned and comfy. Some pushchairs and prams come with a carrycot which can be removed once your baby is able to sit. Some prams also come with an infant seat that can be switched between two modes as your baby grows.

Many pushchairs and prams are designed to fold into small dimensions when not in use, which makes them easier to store and carry in your car boot or on public transport. It is worth assessing the size of the pushchairs when folded. This can make a difference when you need to fit them in small spaces or climb up and down steps.

If you're planning on taking your pram or pushchair into rougher terrain such as fields, parks, or even on beaches, it is recommended to choose an off-road model as this will be more suitable for these kinds of environments. Check that the wheels are air-filled as this will allow them to move easily across rough terrain without having to puncture.

A sunshade or parasol that can be attached directly to the frame of your pushchair will provide shade and protect your baby from overheating during sunny days. You can purchase these items in a separate purchase or as part a pushchair accessories set, with a variety of styles and colors to pick from.

Comfort

A good pram or pushchair should be comfortable for both your baby and you to push. A comfortable, cushioned seat liner, adjustable settings that allow your newborn to lie flat or sway slightly (good for those who suffer from reflux) and a wide sun canopy are all useful. Look for a suspension system that can ensure a smoother ride and a brake system that is flexible so that you can stop quickly in an emergency.

Newborns require a flat, fully lying position to aid in their growing spine, so it's important to ensure your pushchair is able to support this during the first few months. A lot of frames come with a newborn carrycot, which then switches to the reclining seat when your little one is old enough. This means you can use both the pram and pushchair within the same frame.

It is also important to consider your needs when selecting a pushchair like whether it's simple to maneuver and what kind of storage space you require. It is recommended to visit a store where you can test drive different pushchairs and prams to determine how they feel and fold. It is also advisable to look over any accessories that you may require, such as an armband or a seat liner to keep your baby cool during the summer and warm in the winter.

Finally, you'll need to consider the overall style of your pushchair - will it match your lifestyle and style? You'll use it for a long time, so try to choose the right color or print that won't date too quickly or leave you regretting your choice.

Our Goldilocks pushchair is a lightweight pushchair with puncture-proof wheels as well as a huge bouncey suspension, and hoods that you can pull down to protect your child from the elements. It is the perfect balance of comfort both for your child as well as yourself. With a sophisticated and stylish brush twill fabric that has a faux-leather handle and leatherette trims that have a traditional appearance, but is also modern and fresh. It's also priced competitively and comes with a range of useful accessories.

Practicality

It's commonplace to hear terms buggy, pram travel system and pushchair tossed around, but it is crucial to pick one that suits your needs and lifestyle. You'll find it easier to transport on public transportation, in your car or at home if you opt for models that fold. If you choose to purchase an infant stroller or a travel system that has a separate baby seat then ensure that it snaps on easily to the chassis and can be detached without waking your baby (especially if they're sleeping).

Many prams have a large storage basket underneath the seat to allow you to keep your shopping, bags and nappies close at the ready. They are also usually equipped with swivel wheels, which make them easy to manoeuvre and steer through narrow shop aisles, or to turn around in busy areas such as parks and beaches. If you plan to use it in the countryside, you may want to choose an all-terrain model with big tyres which can cope with rough terrain and muddy paths.

A stroller or pushchair is lighter than a pram and provides the convenience of the ability to have a seat that is adjustable to various positions. This is ideal for newborns and babies who can sit up. They typically come with a huge canopy that will provide your toddler or baby protection from the sun, and certain models could be suitable to use in the rain.

Think about how heavy the model is and whether you are able to lift it out and in of your car's boot or up the steps to your home (with or without your child inside!) - especially as they will get heavier over time. It may be worth paying more to get a washable cover that makes cleaning up spills or leaks from nappy nappy easy. It's a good idea to test drive any prams or pushchairs you're contemplating buying, so that you can see how they feel and move and also how easy they fold and carry. You might also want to check if the handlebars are comfortable for you to grip too.

Cleaning

The most effective way to minimize the chance of mildew and mould is to clean your pushchair regularly. This includes wiping down any fabric components immediately after they become dirty and giving them a thorough wash every couple of weeks or pushchairs and prams so. Using a regular application of a fabric freshener or deodoriser will help eliminate odours and prevent the accumulation of grime which can result in mould spores.

Before you begin cleaning your pushchair It's recommended to remove any toys and take off any covers or padding that can be removed. This will make it easier to clean and access those difficult to reach places like the hood, canopy or support for the seat. Choose a place that is well ventilated and lay down sheets to protect the floor. This will make cleaning up easier. Use a vacuum with an adjustable nozzle to take out any food or debris that might have gotten stuck in the crevices and nooks.

If your pushchair comes with fabric parts that can be removed, read the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and wash them according to the instructions (either by hand or by washing in a machine). In other cases, it is safe to use a warm solution of water and gentle soap (or mild detergent) on most fabrics used in prams. However, it is recommended to check the fabric's the durability of its colour before applying any cleaning product as some chemicals can harm or bleach delicate fabrics.

Stains and marks that are stubborn can often be tackled by adding a small amount of bicarbonate of soda to the wash. This is an effective stain remover that can eliminate various types of odours such as those caused by urine or milk. It also helps to remove any soap residues or detergent. After you're done, rinse the fabric well to remove any soap residue, and hang it to dry. Try to hang it outside because sunlight acts as both natural fabric softener as well as an effective disinfectant.