Pushchair Buying Guide

A pushchair will need to go wherever you and your baby go, so it's important to consider the size, functionality and design of any pushchair that you're considering. Here are some useful hints and tips for things to consider when buying a pushchair.

How to Choose a Pushchair: Types

Here are details of the main types of pushchair that you can buy:

Pushchairs - The standard pushchair typically features a range of positions from full lie-back to incline. Equipped with fixed or swivel wheels, standard pushchairs are lighter and more manoeuvrable than other pushchairs, and usually come with a convenient reversible seat. One of the best things about travelling with a standard pushchair is that they can often be folded into a freestanding position. Most models include an adjustable footrest, carry handle - handy for when you want to use public transport - and extra storage space for shopping and accessories.
Buggies/Strollers - Affordable, safe and practical, buggies and strollers are lightweight, fold up easily and usually come with a handy hood to protect your baby from the wind, sun and rain. With lockable swivel wheels and adjustable footrest, a buggy or stroller will also usually feature a handy storage compartment underneath.
Two-in-one pushchairs - Combining the comfort of a pram with the convenience of a pushchair, the two-in-one pushchair is ideal for use in baby's first 36 months. Available with fixed or swivel wheels, a two-in-one pushchair typically features a hood and has both pram and pushchair modes. Easily adjustable between lie-flat pram mode to pushchair mode, the 2-in-1 usually comes with a reversible pushchair seat and plenty of extra storage space underneath, while the whole unit can be swiftly folded up with one hand - perfect for cars and public transport.
Three-in-one pushchairs - A carry cot, pram and pushchair in one, the 3-in-1 pushchair is versatile and functional with a compact folding design. Available with fixed or swivel wheels, the pushchair becomes a comfortable pram for the first months, and you can detach the pram body so it becomes a convenient carry cot. Most three-in-one pushchairs also feature a reversible seat system so your child can face forward or face you. The 3-in-1 pushchair usually comes with extra storage space for shopping and accessories and can be folded up with one hand.
Three-wheelers - Three-wheeler pushchairs blend safety with style and are one of the most popular forms of baby transport. Featuring pneumatic tyres and a rugged design, the 3-wheeler delivers a comfortable ride over a range of surfaces, from urban pavements to rough country terrain. Models of 3-wheeler pushchair typically include a hood and foot muff, quick release wheels, lie-back function and a carry bag. Most three-wheeler pushchairs can also be folded flat for easy storage.
Travel systems - The ultimate all-in-one type of pushchair, travel systems can include a carrycot, pushchair and car seat mode. Models normally include a range of lie-back positions in pushchair mode, a bumper bar for safety and come with lockable fixed or swivel wheels. The versatile design makes it easy to attach the car seat portion to the pushchair, and travel systems usually have plenty of storage space for shopping and accessories.
Tandems and double buggies - Ideal for anyone with twins or one baby and one toddler, tandems feature one seat in front of the other whilst double buggies feature two seats side by side. Both versions of pushchair normally include a range of lie-back positions, lockable swivel wheels and a hood. The narrow design of the tandem makes it more manoeuvrable and more suitable for storing shopping and accessories underneath, while double buggies can include a carrycot option.

Other Points to Consider Before You Buy a Pushchair

When you're choosing a new pushchair, you'll need to consider the following:

Weight and Manoeuvrability - Don't choose a pushchair that's too heavy. You'll want it to be sturdy, but it should be lightweight enough for you to be able to carry it onto public transport or up flights of stairs, and should be easy to manoeuvre
Size - If you are likely to want to pack your pushchair into the back of your car, make sure that you measure your car's boot before you buy your new pushchair. Also, bear in mind that you will want a pushchair that you can manoeuvre through standard doorways easily, particularly when you're going shopping.
Terrains - Make sure that any pushchair that you buy is suitable for the type of environment in which you are likely to use it, whether it will be predominantly used in the city or also for country walks on rougher ground.
Comfort and Protection - It's important to make sure that your baby is comfortable and protected from the elements when you're out and about. Check to see that the pushchair's seat is well-padded and that the pushchair is water-tight. It's also important to check how many positions the seat can be adjusted to. Many pushchairs now have ergonomically designed, soft-grip handles, so you can be more comfortable too!
Folding and Storage - Make sure that your new pushchair is designed so that it's easy to fold up (preferably using one hand) and that when folded it's small enough to be stored safely out of the way in your home.
Safety Standards - All pushchairs sold in the UK must comply with strict safety standards set by British Standards (7409).

Set a Budget Before Choosing a Pushchair

It can be expensive buying all the items for a new baby, and it's a good idea to set yourself a budget before you start shopping for a pushchair. Prices can vary greatly according to the type, brand and features of a pushchair, but its worth shopping around online and comparing prices for the same or similar models of pushchair between different retailers. You might be able to take advantage of significant prices differences, special offers or discounts, and get a better model of pushchair than your budget would normally allow.

Warranties can differ significantly between different pushchair manufacturers and retailers, so it's worth comparing them before you buy your pushchair. Some manufacturers and retailers will offer additional services, such as providing free replacement pushchair while your pushchair is repaired.