What to Look For in Pushchairs

A pushchair is a secure way to transport your child. They are also comfortable and provide an easy ride.

You can consider purchasing a parasol for your child to shield them from the sun. Most pushchairs have one, however, if they don't, many brands sell it as an accessory.

If you're planning to have the birth of a second child consider the possibility of a convertible pushchair that could transform into a double. Some travel systems include a carry cot or seat unit.

Safety

The pushchair is your child's home on the road so it's important to ensure it's safe. All prams, strollers, coaches and buggies should be in compliance with British standard BS7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003. A reputable brand should display this certification on their product's specifications.

A five-point harness is crucial for the safety of your baby. It should fit securely over their shoulders and around their waist, as well as between their legs. Check that the straps and buckles are easily secured and untied.

It is also important to ensure that the brake on your pushchair is easily accessible and functions as intended. You should also consider investing in an reflective strip to help other road users identify you and your child in the dark winter months.

If your pushchair can hold two children, make sure that the footrests run across both seats. This will stop children from slipping their feet between the footrests, and possibly falling out of the pushchair.

All pushchairs, prams, and buggys have a weight limit. It's crucial to be aware of this limit prior to utilizing the pushchair as putting a heavy child in a pushchair could cause it to become unstable.

A quality pushchair should be able to handle being pushed on a variety of surfaces. Select one with large, sturdy wheels. The tyres need to be made of a durable material that can withstand punctures and provide excellent traction on slippery roads. Some pushchairs are designed for off-road usage and feature a special suspension to provide an easy ride.