Buying a
Push ChairA push chair (also called a stroller or buggy) is among the most used baby products. They are designed to provide security and support for infants. They can be placed in a way that is either facing the parent or the baby.
Powerchairs are usually controlled by a joystick that is attached to the armrest that can be modified for those with weak upper body muscles or sip and puff controllers (which are controlled by blowing into a tube). The chair is also equipped with an climbing kerb.
Seating
Alongside a changing mat and baby carrier a push chair will be among the most popular baby products you can purchase, so it is important to consider the finer aspects that ensure it is comfortable for both parent and child. You should pay attention to the seating options, whether you wish to sit in front of your child or the world, and also the ability to adjust the handlebar.
Some pushchairs, referred to as buggies or prams, are suitable for babies from birth and have a fully reclining seat unit that can be set in a flat position to allow newborn babies to sleep. Some travel systems incorporate the carrycot with a baby car seat, a pushchair or reclining seat unit. This allows you to move around your growing family.
Other pushchairs come with a reversible unit that allows you to have your baby facing either you or to the outside world. This is a great option for babies because they are at ease with familiar faces and can be easier to keep an eye on them. It is important that the seat of a stroller equipped with this feature permits your baby to lie flat and be fully supported.
For toddlers and older children There are various types of seats that can be adapted to their needs and age. Some seats can recline and tilt the backrest without changing posture to prevent pressure sores. Others have a built in foot rest that can elevate the user's eye level with other people, which is especially useful when traveling with children or parents who struggle to lift their child into the car.
Powerchairs can also be programmed to meet the user's preferences and abilities. They come with a range of power options that are controlled by a control panel that is located on the armrest. Your assessment expert will help you select the
best travel pushchair seating arrangement and power options for your wheelchair.
The fabric of the seat is typically machine washable and is cleaned with an damp cloth or soft sponge, allowing you to keep it looking neat. Some manufacturers have additional accessories to purchase, such as a footmuff for colder weather and a seat liner, which can be fitted over the existing seat to protect it from spillages, crumbs and accidents involving potty training!
Wheels
The range of brands and models can be overwhelming if are unfamiliar with the world of pushchairs. Add in some puzzling terminology and it's easy to see why purchasing a pushchair may seem like a puzzle.
The wheels of your buggy are a key aspect to take into consideration, since they affect the performance. For example larger wheels are more at handling bumpy surfaces and rough pavements and smaller wheels could be more suitable for urban environments.
Your lifestyle and the terrain you prefer will also determine the type of tyres for your wheel you should choose. For example, if you would like to use your pushchair to jog then you'll need air-filled tyres that can absorb the vibrations of the ground and keep your little one at ease. They are a standard feature on all-terrain pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport which comes with 3 air-filled tyres.
If you do not plan to jog, but still need to ensure that your baby is secure on uneven or rough terrain, you might prefer rubber or foam tyres. They are more durable and provide better shock absorption than plastic tyres. They are typically found on all-terrain pushchairs and three-wheelers, but can also be found in some lightweight strollers.
A high-quality set of pushchair wheels should be durable and easily maintained. You can make use of a hose to wash the wheels regularly.
Some pushchairs have removable wheels for a smaller folded footprint, which is useful when you have to store or transport your
pushchair in tight areas. You'll typically need to remove the front wheels of the pushchair, but check the directions first.
Look for a handlebar that can be adjusted to fit the height of the user. This is an excellent feature to have if plan on sharing the pushchair with your partner or child's grandparent(s) because it will make it easier for them to be able to drive.
Suspension
The suspension system of an electric pushchair smooths out the bumps you encounter on your journey. This feature is crucial for those with disabilities, because it decreases the amount of energy needed to sit in the wheelchair and offers an excellent posture support.
The type of suspension used on a pushchair will differ from one model to the next, so it's recommended to take into consideration your lifestyle and the terrain you'll be traveling over when selecting the best one for you. Suspension that is strong is ideal for those who reside in rural areas and are taking their stroller on long walks, but may not be required for those who reside in urban areas where smooth pavements are the norm.
Larger wheels can offer better suspension than smaller ones because they are more likely to absorb shocks. Some pushchairs come with a combination of tyres with foam-filled pneumatic or PU. These tyres can absorb shocks without puncturing.
Some models also have a swivel wheel on the front, which can enhance the maneuverability. It is also important to be aware of whether your stroller is machine washable, depending on the material used. It is essential to keep the fabric of your stroller clean as this will prevent any bacterial build-up that could cause dampness or mold.
You can easily clean your pushchair by using a mild detergent or disinfectant. Make sure you scrub off any loose mildew or mould with a soft bristle brush. Do this outside to prevent spreading. If possible allow it to dry in the sun. If your pushchair has been tucked away in a storage unit for a while then you can also use a mild sterilising fluid to stop the accumulation of mould and damp.
Controls
It is essential that the controls are simple to use and understand. A pushchair will be used the most frequently so it must be simple to operate. It is usually able to fold from front to back (like the Clamshell) and may have an auto-lock that keeps it shut. Some models will come with a handlebar that can be adjusted to different heights for parents of different sizes and ages.
Most pushchairs that are 'from birth' allow the seat to be set either in front of the parent (parent facing) or away from them (world facing) to ensure that parents and their children can bond. Some pushchairs have extra features, for example, a reclining seat back which reduces the amount of energy spent by your child sitting down. This can help to improve their posture.
The type of brake is an important consideration for a pushchair user. The type of brake will differ from model to model. The most commonly used type of brake is a foot pedal located on the rear axle. It works by putting your foot on the pedal to stop the wheels. Some models come with an active handbrake that you manage by moving your hand in the direction of the movement. This is better for those who require an effective and reliable brake that they can utilize quickly and effectively when they move around in a busy area.
Certain models include an option to swivel your front wheel. This is useful if you are going to be driving over rough terrain. This is due to the swivel allowing you to manoeuvre more easily on uneven surfaces or when crossing a busy road.