7 Things About Pushchairs You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

Choosing Strollers Pushchairs

A light and easy-to-use pushchair is essential for those who regularly take public transportation or take a flight and hop off and on. Look for one that folds flat and compactly and is machine washable to take care of spilt drinks or leaky nappy staining.

We love strollers that glide smoothly over pavements and can be mounted easily. Find car seat attachments that install themselves, and a handlebar which can be adjusted to fit parents of any height.

Easy of Use

There are many different types of strollers pushchairs to suit every budget and lifestyle. Some are extremely light and compact which makes them easy to fold and transport, while others have an extra sturdy frame that's more robust for long walks or on rough terrain. Many also feature a basket for shopping, or changing bags so that you can take everything you need. Some are designed for use in urban areas, whereas others are designed for travel or country living.

Strollers are typically suitable for babies from birth, allowing them to recline in a flat posture, which is recommended for healthy lung and spinal development. Many strollers can be fitted with a carrycot or infant seat to make them travel systems. They are suitable for infants to toddlers. Some offer extra design elements like a handlebar that can be adjusted in height for parents with different heights, and a large shopping basket or rain cover to help keep baby dry.

Generally, three-wheel pushchairs are better for city dwellers, because they're typically light and agile, making them easy to maneuver. Four-wheel pushchairs tend to be more durable, making them ideal for families that live in rural areas or who plan to spend a significant amount of time outdoors. When choosing a pushchair, you should look for reviews from other parents who discuss the ease of use for instance, how much it weighs and how easy to control. It's also worth considering how large the base and whether it feels solid enough for your child to use, especially if you plan to use the pushchair off-road or over rough terrain.

Safety

Strollers and pushchairs should be safe for toddlers and infants to avoid entrapment or other injuries. Make sure you choose a sturdy base that won't tip easily and be sure to test the safety harness by putting weight on it, or hanging bags from it to determine how stable it feels. Check that the leg openings on the stroller are small enough so that a child's legs aren't slipping through. Also, make sure the handlebars are placed at waist level or a little below to allow for a more ergonomic use. Another important feature is a brake that locks the back wheels and is easy to use. It is recommended to look for a brake that is integrated into the wheels, instead of on the frame. This will help stop pinch points and choke dangers.

Many strollers come with seats that recline to an upright position, which makes them suitable for babies. It is recommended that babies lay flat for the first few months to allow breathing and head control reasons. Some pushchairs can be described as having a reclined seating position, but they don't. Make sure you check.

The stroller should come with a five-point adjustable harness (two straps for the shoulders and two straps for the thighs, and one for the crotch) Similar to the ones found in car seats. This is essential to prevent the child from falling out and being pulled out by vehicles or pedestrians.

Check that the stroller comes with a parking brake that's easy to use and locks the two wheels in front. This will stop the stroller from moving while you're unloading or loading your child, or while you're taking a break to take a break.

Comfort

When you're pushing your toddler around, or lugging a shopping bag full of nappies and a takeaway coffee, you want to feel at ease when out and out and about. This can be achieved by choosing a stroller that is sturdy, large and puncture-proof tires that glide over rough terrain. It must also have a smooth and smooth suspension.

A pushchair that is compact and folds easily can be useful. It can be a hassle to squeeze a large pushchair into the boot of your car or to climb a flight of stairs, especially when you have a child with you. It's also worth considering what you'll be using it for and what the weather forecast will be like. So opting for a stroller with an hood that completely shields your child from wind, rain and sunbeams is an excellent idea.

The last factor that affects comfort is the ease to control and steer the pushchair. Watch out for our reviewers' feedback on maneuverability. This includes things like how the stroller turns on different surfaces, and how it is easy to push up hills.

Many pushchairs come with accessories that can help keep your baby warm or cool like fans and footmuffs. Some brands even come with their own nappy bags to make travelling with baby even easier.

A travel system provides greater flexibility. It is comprised of a stroller chassis (called the chassis), a seat unit which can be positioned either forward or facing the parent, and a bassinet or carrycot. It is easy to remove and put the car seat back on the chassis without disturbing your baby. The ideal solution for parents who are constantly on the move and often have to alter your plan of travel.

Style

Although the jargon surrounding strollers pushchairs, prams and buggies can be confusing, there are certain things that all of them have in common. Remember that they are designed to take your baby from one point to B. Consider how you'll use it and look for features that will suit your lifestyle.