Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair can also be referred to as a buggy, stroller or pram. It's the Swiss knife of baby transportation. These baby-chariots can be used on any surface, from busy streets to rough terrain.

A good pushchair will offer comfort and safety for your baby, ease for you, and the possibility for you to spend time together and play. Find out what you should consider when buying one.

Folding

One of the most important characteristics that many parents are looking for when they choose the best pushchair is how simple it folds. A standout is the EeZeFold that has an incredible one-handed fold which allows you to hold your child while folding the buggy. This means you don't need to move between the two. The buggy is also stable when folded, which means you don't have to be concerned about your child falling out or getting harmed during this process.

Some of the smaller folding pushchairs travel systems (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so small they fit in the boot of your car, which means they're ideal if you're a frequent traveler or have a tiny car boot. There are also day-today buggies that take up a smaller amount of space than the average pushchair but still have decent features, like a comfortable recline and wheels that are lightweight. They're also generally light enough to carry by hand and so can be used by Grandma or Grandad when needed.

Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, since some have a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. Some are travel system compatible so you can attach an automobile seat to your infant with one click.

A lot of compact pushchairs are very compact when folded with the seat attached. They're great for people who have limited storage space at home, or who live in apartments. They're also light, and they often come with a raincover to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this class is foldable with just the press of the button. It's great for traveling as it is easy to fold. It's also extremely light, making it simple to maneuver on uneven surfaces, and has great suspension. The seat can rotate to turn from parent-facing to world-facing, while the hood can be extended for additional protection and protection from the sun.

Convertible

A convertible cheap stroller can be altered to meet the demands of families that are growing. It can be used as a single stroller, transform into a double stroller for siblings and even turn into a triple stroller through the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top choice. It's a versatile stroller that can be converted to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for infants or two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.

In addition to changing shape to adjust for different configurations, convertible strollers should offer adjustable features, such as height and reclining. They should have large, easy to grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms, or grandmas to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs because they are made up of more components.

Larktale's crossover stroller/wagon, a first of its kind it combines a single stroller with a wagon. Parents do not have to purchase separate products. It converts quickly and easily into one stroller or a double stroller compact without the necessity of tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle give the flexibility of seating when it is used as a wagon. The Larktale is heavier than our other top-rated convertibles however it is a great maneuverability and is able to easily climb hills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage under the seat. Click here for more information.

Safety

A well-constructed pushchair should have several safety features, including five-point harnesses for the baby. It should be placed over the shoulders as well as around the waist and between the legs. It is also important that the harness doesn't come loose and that it has no areas where a baby may get their fingers stuck.

Select the brake that best suits your lifestyle. The most commonly used brake is a foot brake. It's great when you frequently stop, like when you shop. Many jogger-style pushchairs feature the option of a hand brake. This is helpful when you are changing your momentum frequently, such as when you run. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake that operates by pressing a pedal using your foot. This is a good option for parents who will be stopping and starting their pushchairs more frequently. It helps to keep your balance while still applying the pressure to the wheels.

It is also worth checking whether the pushchair has an adjustable front wheel that locks. This is a great feature for those who live in uneven terrain or steep hills. A lockable wheel on the front can prevent the pushchair from slipping away if you're in a hurry or have lots of baggage in the rear.

Although it may seem a minor consideration, the weight of the pushchair is something you need to bear in mind too. Even a lightweight pushchair can be quite heavy when loaded up with an expanding child and shopping bags. Make sure you know how much it weighs and consider whether you would be capable of lifting it into your car boot and up the stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a cup of coffee from a takeaway.

A pram bag, buggy or pushchair is made for babies who can sit and can be used until six months. The seat can be placed to face you or away from you, depending on whether you want your child to bond with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs can be adjusted to seats, handlebars and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents enjoy the convenience features of pushchairs, and there are plenty to choose from. Some are more suited to rough terrain or city streets than others and the type of brake is also a factor to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance, is best suited to everyday use. A hand brake that is active that is found on pushchairs with joggers is more responsive when on an adventure.

The capability of your pushchair to allow infants to lie completely flat is one of the most important features. Babies need to be in a completely flat position to develop their spines, so it is important to choose a pushchair with this feature right from the start. This will give your baby a relaxing nap or time to rest, which will allow the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a healthier, happier child.

If you're going to be using a car seat with your pushchair, you need to get a model that is compatible with your chosen infant car seat. This makes it fast and easy to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair, which reduces fuss and keeping him calm throughout his outings.

Some pushchairs car seats have an intelligent adaptor for car seats, which allows you to easily attach your car seat. You can use the seat from birth until toddlerhood and save money and time. Many brands offer a bundle that includes a baby car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, along with a footmuff, all in one purchase.

A well-designed suspension system is also crucial, especially for the front wheels. This can make all the difference when driving over rough terrain or city roads that allow you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your baby comfy.

It is also possible to consider other practical comfort features, like a spacious basket (or separate bag) with reclining handles, an adjustable seat and an air-conditioned hood. The combination of these features will help you navigate your way through the country or town, and ensure your little one has the best quality sleep possible for the longest nap possible.