Buying a pushchair for your baby is one of the big buying decisions you’ll make. In fact, buying items for a baby is full of big decisions. One that you will use the most will be your pushchair. But how do you make sure that you have chosen and bought the right pushchair? Let us help you.
When buying a pushchair you want to make sure you’ve made the right decision the first time. It is something that you will use day in and day out. You will need to rely on your pushchair to get around.
Tips for buying a pushchair
So you can have confidence in buying the right pushchair first time. Here are our top tips and things to consider.
How will you get around?
Being mobile is ultimately the idea of a pushchair; therefore, you will want to make sure that the one you choose makes this aspect of life all the easier.
If you drive, then you may want to consider what is known as a “travel system”. This is essentially a pushchair with a Group 0+ car seat. With the car seat, you can simply pop into your car and then later clip onto the pushchair. Just remember to make sure that the pushchair part fits into the boot of your car when folded down.
For those who rely on public transport, a pushchair that is light and easy to fold is key. There are several “city” style pushchairs out there that are suitable. They are great from birth and allow you to get on and off a bus with your baby easily.
How long will you use your pushchair for?
One thing that you should look at before buying your pushchair is how long you anticipate using it. For most of us, we want the best value from our pushchairs. You will want to ensure that you have a pushchair that will take your newborn right up to toddler-dom.
General guidance is to stop using buggies at about age 3. You really want to get your toddler walking around to build strength and stamina in their legs. Doing this also reduces the chance of obesity. You may want or need to use it beyond this because of a disability or safety. If you’re going to a crowded area or near busy roads, that’s definitely a concern.
Also if you plan on going on long trips out you may want to keep it. If they get tired later in the day and you don’t have access to a car, carrying a 36 lb toddler isn’t too easy. However, If your toddler is constantly trying to get out though, it is possibly time to ditch it for a pair of running shoes.
The style of pushchair you may want to look at comes with a carrycot accessory. You can use this during those early days. Then it can then be converted to suit the needs of a toddler. Some come with the option to reverse the seats and other parts that mean you can transform it to grow with your child.
How much are you looking to spend?
Buying a pushchair can be costly, especially if you have one that you want to use until your child is too big to use it anymore. Remember you may be using it up until they are about 3 years old and maybe up until 4 years old, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking!
There are some basic models that will cost you less than £100. However, if you want one that will really last, then you may be happy to spend a bit more money. Remember, accessories, flexibility and the ability to grow with a pushchair will mean that you have to make a bigger investment. In the long run, you’ll effectively save money. You will be glad that you did spend out.
Planning on some country walks?
If you are the type of person that only lives in the city, then it won’t matter if you pick a pushchair with smaller wheels. However, some families like to get out and explore the greener parts of the country. If that’s you, you are going to want to select a pushchair that is made that little bit sturdier and can withstand being taken off-road.
Buying a pushchair – conclusion
Ultimately, buying a pushchair is important when you are planning for your baby. You should take your time, try a few different options out and make sure that you ask for advice as and when you need it.
That way you can be sure that you will have a happy and comfortable baby and also be a happy parent!
If you want to save some money on buying one, you could look to pick up a secondhand one. You’d have a limited choice but that’s the payoff. check out our article on buying second-hand baby items here. This article runs you through the options for buying second-hand kids stuff.
If after you’ve finished with your chosen mode of transport for your little one, you can sell it on and recoup some of the cost. Read our article The best place to sell baby items to have a look at how you can do that.
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