Pushchairs - What to think about when buying one

Pushchairs are available now in different forms and sizes ranging from simple basic models to multifunctional travel units. Choosing the appropriate pushchair can therefore become a vexing task, if you do not know what to look for. Pushchairs are basically a means of transporting babies or toddlers in a way that is convenient for the parent as well as the child, but can be an essential parenting tool if you choose one that will make your life easier.

Clinching Factors in Buying Pushchairs

When you are looking for a pushchair, there are five significant factors that you should note before you proceed further.

1. Ease of maneuvering
2. How easy it is to fold and unfold
3. Safety features of the pushchair
4. Price
5. The weight

Pushchairs You are Comfortable with

Two things that your have to bear in mind while purchasing pushchairs are

• You should be comfortable using it
• The baby and its particular needs should be met

The wheels should swivel properly, be easy to move about and should be made of rubber which is more convenient than plastic wheels.  Brake pedals should be designed to be reliable. You should also consider the neighborhood you live in, the places you are likely to go and how the baby needs to be seated before choosing one.

Meeting your Baby’s Needs

Recliner:

Pushchairs can be used by newborn babies and toddlers too, but if you are considering the pram for a new born, it should have a completely reclined seat and preferably one that can be altered as the baby grows. After three months, the chair can be partly reclined and then held upright. At present, most of the pushchairs are available with multiple recliner options.

Seat Position:

The seat should be reversible so that you can opt for the baby facing you or forwards. Seats that can be turned around when needed also give you more flexibility and will be convenient, if you want to check on the baby.

Accessories:

Accessories can further add comfort for the baby and you should be definitely looking for them. Some of the additional features you find are:

• Convenient folding mechanism
• Handle heights that are adjustable
• Space for shopping baskets
• Seat pads that can be detached
• Foot rest
• Rain covers
• Sun parasols

Types of Pushchairs

There are different types of pushchairs available in the stores, from which you can choose the one suitable for your needs. Here are some of the common varieties of pushchair available:

• Fully Reclined: This is especially made for newborn babies. Verify whether the back reclines to over 150 degrees.
• Upright: This is for babies who are more than six months old.
• Sleeping Pushchair: This should be used only when the babies are over six months old.
• Reversible Seat: This gives you the choice of positioning the baby facing you or forwards
• Travel Units: This enables transferring the child from the chair to the car easily without disturbing him or her. Make sure the child is not in the car seat for a long span of time.

Finally the cost of the chair should also be noted. If you would like to pass the chair onto your next child, then you can invest in an expensive and sturdier pushchair that lasts longer. Look for a less expensive one if you are thinking of changing pushchairs once the baby grows to save money that could be spent on other parenting tools.