There are a number of factors to consider when purchasing a pram for the first time and below is a comprehensive checklist to help you choose your baby’s new set of wheels!

Safety

The main priority for all parent’s-to-be is the safety of their child. When purchasing a pram, make sure of the following:

• Has the pram been awarded safety certification from a recognised International body?
• Does the pram have a solid brake and wheel locking system that will ensure that it remains stationary if necessary
• Does the pram have a bumper bar – a key safety feature for the younger child
• Are the materials non-toxic
• Is there a 5 point safety harness

Longevity

You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you purchase a pram that is perfect for a baby, but way too small for a toddler.

Look for a pram that is versatile and comfortable  for your child from newborn up to four years of age. One that is compatible with both the infant car seat and toddler stroller seat will ensure that you only have to buy once.

Quality

You need to remember that the pram you choose now will probably be used for a second and maybe even third child. The initial investment that you make in purchasing a top quality pram will be worth it when you are using it over the duration of five or more years.

Look out for the following:

• Puncture free rubberised wheels
• The fabric on the pram is so important – it needs to be durable and easy to clean
• A corrosion resistant material used for the construction of the pram frame

Practicality

At the end of the day, you need to purchase a pram that makes your life easier when out and about with your baby – not harder!

These are key points to think about:

• Is the pram lightweight and easy to carry?
• Does it fit into your car boot?
• How easy is it to collapse and unfold?
• Does the pram free-stand when folded
• Is it easy to push and manoeuvre?
• Does the pram canopy offer adequate sun shade?
• Does the stroller seat offer rearward and forward facing seat modes?
• What are the recline positions like?
• Is there a decent sized shopping basket and is it easy to access?
• Is the pram comfortable for your baby or toddler?
• If you are not always going to be travelling on a completely smooth surface, are the wheels a decent size to accommodate bumpier terrain and is there any suspension?

It is a good idea to have a few ‘non-negotiable’ requirements that you have listed prior to comparing the different pram options, as this will help you eliminate certain models straight away and hopefully make your choice easier.

Last tip – never buy a pram without physically putting it into the car boot! You may be doing this a few times a day (sometimes with a screaming baby on your hip!) and you want to be 100% sure it fits.

About the Author: Double Trouble is a Cape Town based company that specialises in baby products for Twins and Singletons. For more information, visit www.double-trouble.co.za.

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