- Can be used from the newborn stage
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For a pram to be used from birth, it needs to be able to lay back flat. Newborns
cannot sit up! It is okay for it to have a slight incline. Newborns should be facing
you as you push the pram - so check that this is the case, or that the pram has
a reversible handle. Consider buying a pram with a removable bassinette. The bassinettes
can be used in the pram for the first months, and the baby will be facing you. They
can also be useful to put the baby in when visiting friends and relatives. Some
parents however, may find that they had little use for the bassinette.
- Can be packed into a car
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If your car has a small boot, you may need to measure the size of any pram you wish
to purchase. Some prams have removable wheels, which make the pram easier to fit
into a boot - but you have to consider if you are willing to remove and replace
the wheels every time you want to take the pram in the car. Also check how flat
the pram folds – you want to be able to fit other things into your boot besides
the pram!
- Can fold easily
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If you only use your pram to go for walks from your home, this won’t be too much
of an issue. But if you have to fold your pram up and down a lot, you will appreciate
an easy, quick-fold action. Get the shop assistant to show you how the pram folds,
and then try it yourself, before you buy.
- Is lightweight
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Again, this is not an issue if you only/mostly use the pram for walks from your
home. Check the weight of the pram and consider what you will be using the pram
for. Hauling a heavy pram in and out of the car as you go about errands, shopping
trips, parents groups, playgroup and other places can quickly become a nightmare.
If you suffer from back pain, this point will be of particular interest. Strollers
come in some very light weights – the lightest of which is the umbrella stroller.
Once a baby is old enough to sit up, a stroller may be the best option for quick
trips to the shop. Strollers with no sunshade canopy, which do not lie back, and/or
have small plastic wheels, will not be suitable for long walks
outdoors.
- Can be easily taken on public transport
-
Buses and trains can present problems. There is often limited space to store your
pram or stroller when onboard. An ‘umbrella’ stroller that folds up very compact
is the best for fitting on the floor space next to you while you are seated. It
is also important that it folds easily, preferably with only using one hand – when
you are holding a baby or toddler, you will not have both hands free. A sling or
baby carrier may be a better option until your baby is old enough to go into a light
weight stroller.
- Can be pushed easily
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Look for good quality wheels and test the pram for manoeuvrability around the shop
before you buy. (with a child in the pram if you can!) Front wheels that swivel
(or a single front wheel in the case of a jogger pram) can make turning in tight
areas much easier. Can the swivel wheels be locked into position? This can make
the pram easier to push over bumpy ground. If you are buying a pram that has a reversible
handle, check how smoothly you are able to push the pram in both positions. Larger
wheels, and those that are inflatable, can give a smoother ride for your baby, and
make it easier for you to push.
- Will move easily down narrow shopping aisles
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Twin prams/strollers and even some single prams are quite wide, and can make it
difficult when shopping. Check the width of the pram that you wish to buy. However,
many people are happy with their wide prams, especially if they have twins and want
them both to have the same view!
- Will last
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The most expensive pram is not necessarily the one that will last the longest! It
is true however that the very cheapest prams will not be the most solid and durable
ones on the market. Look for good wheels (large, pneumatic are often best) and a
sturdy frame. Flimsy plastic brake levers may severely limit the life of your pram.
Colour may be an additional factor to consider. If you buy a bright pink pram for
your little girl, you may end up deciding that the colour is all-wrong if baby number
two is a boy. A light-coloured pram may accumulate stains that won’t
wash off.
- Has an adjustable handle
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We’re not all the same height! A pram or stroller with a handle/handles that is
too high or too low can be very uncomfortable. If the handle is at the right height
for you, will another person, such as a partner, also push the pram often? If the
pram you want does not come with an adjustable handle, check to see if you can buy
a handle attachment for it.
- Looks trendy
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We all want a pram or stroller that looks good! But as soon as you make your purchase,
the manufacturer is sure to come out with an updated model, or there will be a snazzier
pram out on the market elsewhere. But rest assured, if you have bought a pram that
suits your lifestyle and your needs, you’re way ahead.
- Comes with accessories
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Think ahead! If you intend on going for lots of outdoor walks, things like rain
covers and good sunshade may be needed. Are there lots of flying insects around
your area in summer? – An insect net may be needed. Do you want an attachable tray
for your baby’s food or toys? Will you need a basket underneath for carrying things?
Do you want a matching baby bag?
- A toddler can sit in
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If you want your pram or stroller to be suitable from the birth to toddlerhood of
your child, check the maximum weight that it can carry. If you are planning on transporting
a baby and toddler around together, you may need a pram that comes with an attachable
toddler seat or kickboard. Some prams and strollers do not have these options. Don’t
make the mistake of buying a pram, only to discover down the track that it doesn’t
have the optional attachments for toddlers that you will need. Alternatively, you
may prefer to carry your baby in a sling or carrier, whilst you push your older
child in the stroller.
- Is safe for my baby
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This is a must of course! Prams and strollers must conform to Australian safety
standards. (AS/NZS 2088:2000). Prams can become unsafe if babies and toddlers are
left in them unsupervised, or if certain parts are added or removed from the pram.
Sadly, babies have died due to incorrect use of prams, or from a pram not being
fitted out correctly. It is best that the pram has a 5-point harness. A lever that
locks both brakes at the one time can be safer as well as more convenient. Ensure
that there are no gaps that can trap little fingers, and that the pram holds firm
in each position, especially if you are buying second hand.