What to Look For in a Pram Pushchair

A stylish pram that is both swish and practical. It's simple to put together, can convert into a double and has large storage space.

This amazing travel system allows you to "future secure" by adding an adaptable car seat and carrycot. It folds neatly and easily with just one hand, and it can be reassembled when folded.

Seat

It is likely that your baby will use the pram often and therefore it's crucial to ensure it's comfortable. Make sure you choose a model with adjustable handlebars, comfortable seat padding and a reclining function so you can lay your child to sleep. Check that the pushchair has a 'parent-facing' (or rear facing) or 'world-facing' setting in case your child wishes to observe more of what's happening around them.

The Graco Near2Me comes with a neat feature that allows parents to keep their child close and maintain eye contact. Jaya one of our testers, a parent, praised this as a wonderful option for newborns and infants.

It's important to consider the overall dimensions of a pram when choosing one, since you don't want to take up too much space in the trunk of your car or in your living space. Choose a model that can be folded easily and compact when folded to ensure it fits. Check how easy it is to fold and then read reviews (like those on MadeForMums) for a real sense of how simple or difficult it is to maneuver fold and store.

A high-quality pram should fold flat, allowing your baby to lie down comfortably during the first six months of their life. This is vital for their development. Check that the pram that you are thinking about buying can do this, and that it can be used with a car seat if necessary.

Wheels

The wheels are what propel the pram and give your child a safe ride. There are three 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 could be punctured if inflated too quickly using a car tyre pump. This is not a frequent problem and is usually caused by over-inflating the wheel. This wheel type is often used on buggies that run all-terrain.

PU or Polyurethane wheels are foam filled making them lighter than rubber tyres. They don't have the same shock absorption capabilities, and can feel harsher on rough concrete surfaces. They are more common on strollers than in prams, and are the cheapest option.

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

A strong and reliable brake system on your stroller is an important feature and will safeguard you, your baby and pedestrians. The majority of pushchairs have a brake pedal located on the rear of the chassis and can be activated by pressing a button or lever on the handlebars or pushing down with your foot. The brakes must be simple to operate and should lock as soon as you press them. Some pushchairs feature brakes on the middle wheel for extra stability and control.

Carrycot

The carrycot is a lightweight portable cot that connects to the frame of a pushchair. It's a great choice for babies up to six months old as they need to lie flat, which is essential for their lung and spine development. A running pram with a carrycot is an excellent option for parents who are limited in space, have a small car boot or use public transport a lot.

Some prams come with an inbuilt carrycot that folds into the frame of the folding pushchair so you can easily swap between carriage and seat mode. This is a great choice for families who have a small car boot or frequent public transport. It will save you time and effort. The iCandy YOYO2 is an example of this and has a high score with MFM home testers, and also winning Gold in our previous MadeForMums awards. It's an excellent choice for parents on a budget as it's reasonably priced, yet looks and feels luxurious. It's also sturdy and lightweight. It's also compact when folded.

If you're looking for a luxurious single-to-double pushchair that's suitable from birth and used with a carrycot or a baby cocoon, the Mountain Buggy Twin Plus is the perfect choice. This gorgeous pram comes with lay-flat carrycots a fabric sling seat and a baby cocoon to provide the ideal sleeping solution that is secure and comfortable for twins.

It is also a smooth light-steering, quick and nippy rider, which is perfect for urban areas. It is 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 a footmuff, rain cover and hood.

Canopy

A pram canopy will protect your child from the elements while offering an ideal place to sleep. It's also great for preventing heat stroke and sunburn by blocking out the harsh rays of the sun. Some models feature an open or mesh back section that you can detach to keep an eye on the little snoozer.

In winter, a hood is a great way to protect your baby's delicate skin from the elements and rain. Some models come with a rain cover that can be easily popped over the pram's canopy, and secured with poppers. You can also purchase a separate umbrella that attaches with magnets to the pram and folds away when not being used.

Your pushchair or pram for many years to come, so selecting the most suitable one is a crucial decision. As your baby grows, you will want to make sure they're comfortable and safe on every journey. A quality pram or pushchair will ensure your baby's spine is supported and keep them at ease during long walks and bumpy rides.

Pushchairs can be transformed into a seat once your baby grows older. They are more adaptable than prams. Our knowledgeable team is available to assist you if aren't sure which pram or pushchair is suitable for your requirements. Contact us or visit our store.

Stores

There are many options for storage for prams, depending on your budget as well as the space available. A shed is a good choice if you have the room, as it will protect the pram from weather damage and keep it out of the way when not in use. This is a great option for areas that are prone to frequent snow or rain.

A shed is usually constructed out of metal or wood and has a door that allows easy access. It could also be equipped with locks or other security features. Garages are another popular option, since it provides protection from the elements and be close to your car, if you're using that for transport.

If you do not have garage space, you can keep the pram in your home's closet. This will keep it away from view, so you don't have to look at it when you enter your house or your nursery. It could be difficult to reach if are hosting guests.

To keep your pushchair clean, you'll need to clean it regularly. This will ensure that it looks great and is free of stains and mildew. Start by vacuuming the hood with an attachment small in size or by rinsing it with cool soapy water. Then, use a mild sterilizing agent or a fabric brush to get rid of any stain. It is important to dry the fabric thoroughly outdoors to stop mildew and mould from spreading. You can also purchase an item to clean up staining that is difficult to remove and make your pushchair appear like new.