The 10 Worst Pushchairs Failures Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport
A pushchair, also referred to as a pram, buggy or stroller, is the Swiss knife of infant transport. These baby-chariots are able to handle any surface, from crowded streets to rough terrain.
A quality pushchair provides comfort and safety for your baby, convenience for you and a chance to bond and explore the world together. Read on to find out what to look for when picking one.
Folding
One of the key characteristics that many parents are looking for when selecting the best pushchair is how simple it is to fold. A standout is the EeZeFold which features an amazing one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, which means you don't have to juggle between the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, meaning you don't have to worry about your child falling off or causing injury during this process.
Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold down so small that they can fit in the boot of your car, which means they're perfect if you're a frequent traveler or have a smaller car boot. Some are small buggies designed for everyday use, which have a smaller footprint than the standard pushchair, but offer decent features such as recline that is comfortable or light wheels. These buggies are usually lightweight enough to be carried by hand and so Grandma or Grandad can use them if necessary.
Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, as they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. Some are compatible with travel systems and allow you to attach an automobile seat to your infant with just one click.
Although they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggy many compact pushchairs take up a tiny space when they're folded with the seat in, so they're perfect for those short on storage space in their home or live in an apartment. They're also light, and many have a rain cover to protect them against the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair 3 in 1 pram this category, can be folded with one hand by pressing a button. It is great for traveling as it is easy to fold. It's also light, making it simple to use even on rough surfaces. It also comes with an outstanding suspension. The seat can be turned to face either the outside world or the parent and the hood can be extended to provide extra sun protection.
Convertible
A convertible stroller transforms its shape to meet the demands of families that are growing. It can start as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for siblings, and even become a triple stroller with the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. Our top pick, the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a versatile single-to-double twin stroller that converts to accommodate a bassinet or car seat for newborns as well as one or two toddler seats, and even a third child with the use of adapters.
Convertible strollers should come with adjustable features, such as the height and reclining setting. They should also have large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms, or grandmas to push. Also, since these types of strollers usually contain more components than traditional pushchairs, they will be more stable and less likely to fall over when carrying several children or loads of equipment.
Larktale's cross-over stroller/wagon, the first of its kind that is a stroller that can be used as a wagon. Parents do not need to purchase separate products. It converts quickly and effortlessly into a single stroller or a double stroller without the necessity of tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle offer the flexibility of seating when it is used as an actual wagon. While the Larktale is a bit bulkier than our other top-rated convertibles, it is extremely maneuverable and can maneuver well over hills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage space under the seat. Click here for more information.
Safety
A quality pushchair should include a number of safety features, including a five point harness for infants. It should be placed over the shoulders as well as around the waist, and between the legs. It is also crucial that the harness isn't out of its place and that there are no areas where a child could get their fingers stuck.
Select the brake that best suits your lifestyle. The most popular brake is a foot brake. It's great when you stop a lot such as when you go shopping. A lot of jogger-style pushchairs come with the option of a hand brake. This is useful when you are changing your momentum frequently, such as when running. Some pushchairs have an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good choice for parents who are stopping and starting their pushchairs more frequently. It allows you to maintain your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.
Verify that the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is a great feature for those who live in uneven terrain or steep hills. A lockable wheel on the front can stop the pushchair from slipping away if you are in a rush or have lots of luggage in the rear.
Although it may seem an unimportant thing to consider, the weight of the triple pushchair is something you need to keep in mind. Even a lightweight pushchair can become surprisingly heavy when stuffed with a growing infant and shopping bags. Examine the weight of your pushchair and see whether you can carry it up the stairs and into the boot of your car, while carrying an infant.
Buggy prams, pushchairs, or prams are designed for infants who can sit up. They are typically used after six months. The seat can be positioned to face you or away from you, depending on whether you want your child to be close to you or explore the world. Many pushchairs have adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents appreciate the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are a variety to choose from. Some are more suitable for urban streets or rough terrain but others are not. The brake type is another aspect to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance is ideal for daily use. An active hand brake that is found on pushchairs with joggers is more responsive on an adventure.
One of the most important features of comfort is whether or not the pushchair has a full lie flat position for newborns. It is crucial to select the pushchair with this feature from the moment of birth. This will let your baby grow into an upright position. This will allow your baby a peaceful 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 in conjunction with your pushchair, it's essential to select a model that is compatible with your infant car seat. This makes it quick and simple to move your child from the car into the pushchair, reducing stress and ensuring he's calm during his excursions.
Some pushchairs feature an adaptor for car seats that lets you easily attach your car seat to the frame. You can use the seat from birth until toddlerhood, and save time and money. Many brands also offer a travel system bundles that include the carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors and a footmuff all in one purchase.
A well-designed suspension system is also crucial particularly for the front wheels. This can make a big difference when driving on rough roads or city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your the baby in a comfortable position.
Other useful comfort features you should look out for include a spacious shopping basket (or even a separate bag), the reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat, and a an air-conditioned hood. All of these features can assist you in navigating around town or the country and ensure that your child has the best sleep possible for the longest nap possible.