Making the right choice
When you’ve found a model you like, consider the following points before you buy
(bear in mind that there are no fixed definitions - one manufacturer’s convertible is
another’s combination, and so on).
- Will it suit my lifestyle?
If you do a lot of walking, you’ll need a sturdy
model with good suspension. If you rely on public transport, size, weight and portability
are essential considerations. Check how quick and easy it is to fold for catching a bus or
negotiating a flight of stairs. Bear in mind that if you live in the countryside or do a
lot of walking you will need something more robust than if you travel mainly by car
- How well designed is it?
Try to see beyond the pretty fabrics and cosy finishes.
Instead examine the design, quality and innovative features
- Will this be your only pushchair?
Are you hoping it will suit your baby from newborn
until he no longer needs a pushchair or are you planning to buy a second buggy when
he’s older?
- What does the guarantee cover?
Find out what sort of guarantee your pram or
pushchair carries and how easy it is to get repairs done. Check if your retailer will lend
you something while yours is being repaired
- Ask for a full demonstration
Some pushchairs and prams can be very complicated to
put up and down before you get used to them. Try folding and unfolding it yourself,
putting on any attachments and giving it a push around the shop
- Is the instruction manual clear?
Some are badly written and hard to follow,
particularly those from other countries which have been translated into English
- How big is it, folded and unfolded?
Will it fit in the boot of your car? Will it fit
through an average-sized door? Will your baby quickly outgrow it?
- What accessories are included in the price?
Some manufacturers make many of their
accessories optional extras, which can mean that the price of a seemingly inexpensive
pushchair suddenly starts to add up
- Is it suitable for a newborn?
A newborn baby needs to lie completely flat. The seat
needs to have a full lie-back facility and the pushchair must be sturdy, padded,
comfortable and, particularly for a winter baby, completely weatherproof
- Can the seat face in either direction?
Young babies usually like to face their
parent but toddlers prefer to see where they are going
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