Brief guide to purchase your first pushchair

Posted by Blog Post on September 1st, 2021

Finding a baby pushchair that is comfortable, easy to use, and safe for both you and your baby is crucial when deciding which one to buy. There is an enormous selection of pushchairs to choose from, which can make it feel like a daunting task to find the right one! There are many things to keep in mind when choosing the right pushchair, pram, or buggy for you. You will have to consider the brands you like, how you want your pushchair to look, what is suitable for your child, and what you are willing to spend.

As both parents will be strolling with the pushchair, it is important that couples are equally involved in choosing a chair. Having the right pushchair can make all the difference in how easy and accessible your new life as a parent will be. We created a basic guide to help you get started in figuring out which pushchair you should buy for you and your baby.

First things first, what is the difference between a pram, a pushchair, and a buggy?

While these terms are used somewhat interchangeably, they do differ quite a bit. To make it easy to understand, prams are intended for newborns and younger babies under 6 months old. Your baby is usually facing you when they are in a pram. Pushchairs are geared more towards older babies over six months old. Buggies are often referred to as a collapsible, cheaper option that is more appropriate for an airport or outdoor event rather than everyday use.

Which pushchair should I use for my newborn?

When selecting a pram for your newborn baby, the most important thing to keep in mind is that your child should be lying flat. This is extremely important as it protects their back, maintains healthy breathing patterns, and is generally considered much healthier for their development. A great option for newborn pushchairs is a travel system that includes a carrycot, which allows you to easily move you, baby, from your pushchair to their car seat, and anywhere else on-the-go.

Once my baby is older than 6 months, what do I use?

As your child gets older and can begin to support their body weight and sit up, you can move onto another pushchair that is more suited for their development. You will need a complete pushchair frame and a seat unit to make sure your baby is properly supported and comfortable. There are many fantastic and safe options when considering a pushchair for an older baby, and you will want to keep in mind which direction you want them facing while they are in their seats.

How much money should I spend on my new pushchair?

Pushchairs can range in price from as low as £250 to as high as £3500, the most important factor in deciding how much to spend relies completely on your budget. You can always purchase a second-hand pushchair but be sure to confirm all safety protocols and regulations are spoken for and up to date. You will also want to consider how often and how long you will be using your pushchair. If you plan on having children close in age, it may make more sense to invest more money into a high-quality, long-lasting pushchair.

Important things to keep in mind while you are shopping

We all have different needs when it comes to purchasing a pushchair. There are many questions you will want to ask yourself as you begin your search, such as:

1. How often will I use my pushchair Every day Less frequently?
2. Are you sticking to pavements or taking your baby off-road?
3. Where do you live – in a city, in the country, or by the sea?
4. Do I need it to have a lot of storage space?
5. How easily will it fold and fit into your car?
6. Will you be taking it on public transport?
7. How many children are you using the pushchair for?
8. Will you have to lift the chair often?

Understanding how your pushchair can fit into your lifestyle is incredibly important in choosing the right one.

Finally, what features should you be looking out for when purchasing a pushchair?

After you have answered the questions above and have gotten a sense of the capabilities you are expecting from your pushchair, you will have a much clearer idea of the features that are most important to you and your decision. For example, if you use a lot of public transportation, opt for a model that has a narrower frame. If you plan on doing a lot of hiking with your baby, make sure the model that you are looking at boasts all-terrain features. There are many options to choose from, and the most successful way to choose the right stroller is to be realistic and understand how you will be using it daily.