10 things to think about when shopping for a pram

1

Pram posers :It's easy to be lured by that NASA-style buggy with space age sprung technology. As a rule simple is usually best. When choosing a model ask yourself if you need all those bells and whistles and how it will fit in with your lifestyle. Three-wheel 'roadsters' may look snazzy, but unless you live up a mountain, something a little more streamlined might be a better bet.

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2

Test drive :It's always wise to compare a few models and give them a thorough MoT. Do the brakes inspire confidence? Is the seat supportive? Is it a nightmare to fold up? Take it for a spin round the shop floor and assess its maneuverability; then check it will fit in your car's boot. Don't leave anything to chance!

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3

Carry on baby :Many parents find baby carriers and slings invaluable as they leave.you with two free hands while you go about your everyday chores.

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4

Newborns :like them too, because they feel snug and secure snuggled up to you. But remember slings only have a very limited lifespan. Once your baby starts to put on weight they may put a strain on your shoulders or back. They're certainly worth trying out - but never buy one second hand.

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5

Car seats :If you have a car you will be buying a rear-facing infant carrier. Light in weight and with an integral handle, they can be bought on their own, or as part of an integrated travel system. The golden rule here is never use a carrier on the front seat of a car fitted with a passenger air bag. And ALWAYS ask the shop to demonstrate how it fits in your car. The smudgy little diagrams printed on the side of the seat usually spell confusion.

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6

On the buses :Even if you do go for that all-singing pram, budget for a cheap, lightweight stroller as well. Going where no buggy can go they're a godsend on a bus or plane, collapsing down at the flick of a handle and storing in the tightest of spaces.

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List additions by daniz39  10/09/08

7

The sooner you can get them into a lightweight buggy the better. Practice putting the buggy up and down with one hand, holding a baby and several shopping bags in the other and the car keys between your teeth. Try and open the car boot and put everything in (except the baby). Now try doing this whilst your baby is screaming blue murder.

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List additions by barefootgirl  24/09/08

8

Always ALWAYS test how easy it is to collapse and assemble the pram / buggy / stroller BEFORE you buy it. The expensive ones that boast "one-handed collapse" are fabulous, and tempting, but can sometimes be a struggle to put up.

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9

If you succump to the temptation to buy a large traditional pram, (and they ARE beautiful), think about where you will keep it when its not in use.

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List additions by Yelland  10/11/08

10

And FINALLY surely just DON'T choose a pram based on it's design - your baby is NOT an accessory! Space for shopping, manoeuvrability, size when folded, ease of folding and most of all width! I have to stifle a laugh when I see people with these huge Three wheeling off roading buggies not being able to get into their local coffee shop door!

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