Ok, hands up who’s confused about picking the right pushchair for their new baby? The choice can be overwhelming. We’ve already discussed the different types of pram available in the post Picking your Pram. But, in order to decide what type of pram is right for you, you really need to have a think about your lifestyle first.

What do you need?

Take a look at the questions below, spend a bit of time thinking about your answers and hopefully it’ll put you on the right track to finding the best pram for you.

• How much will you be using the pushchair? If your baby will be in the stroller for long periods of time then a 3 in 1 pushchair, with a carrycot unit will allow your child to sleep comfortably.
• Where will you be using the pushchair? If you live in a city then a lightweight, manoeuvrable pram maybe for you, but if you will be using the buggy on rougher terrain then perhaps a more durable model with strong suspension could be a better option.
• Will you be using public transport? If you will be using the buggy on public transport a lot then a model that has a one-handed fold mechanism could be invaluable.
• Will you be travelling by car a lot? A travel system might be the best choice if you will be transferring baby from car to buggy a lot; being able to put the infant carrier directly on the pushchair frame will allow you to move the baby without disruption.
• What storage space do you have? If storage is limited at home then a compact model, that fold down easily will be best and you should perhaps consider a 2 in 1 pram.
• Do you live upstairs (without access to a lift)? If you need to carry your pram upstairs then you will definitely want to consider the weight of the pushchair and also whether it can be transported in one go.
• Will you be taking the buggy abroad? Again, if you will be taking the pushchair abroad then a lightweight and compact model will be really useful.
• Do you want to use the pram for more than one child? If you plan to use the buggy again then a more durable and hardwearing model, with washable covers is a must.
• Do you want to use the same buggy from birth until the toddler stage? Again, if you want to use the same pram from birth right up until the age of two or three then a tough and easy clean 3 in 1, or 2 in 1 pushchair will be a necessity.

Whatever you’re looking for there will be something out there to suit you and your family.

Once you have an idea of what sort of pram will work for you there are a few things you need to consider before making your final decision.

What to look at

• Safety – make sure the pushchair has a secure safety harness and sturdy break and feels stable.
• Comfort – look for a pram with generous padding, a spacious seat unit and multiple positions; if you want a pushchair to see your baby through from newborn to toddler, look for a model with an adjustable leg rest also.
• Durability – look for a pram that is sturdy and well manufactured, that has removable and washable covers.
• Accessories – check what is included with the pram and what extras you will have to purchase; the extra costs can mount up quite easily.
• Manoeuvrability – check that the pushchair is easy to push and navigate and make sure that the handle height suits both you and your partner, or is adjustable.