Buying Tips/Buying a Pram
Buying a Pram
When it comes to buying a pram that’s right for you and your baby, the good news is that there is something for everyone. Before buying a pram, check the latest safety standards at www.accc.gov.au to ensure your pram ticks all the boxes. Retailers are a great source of information when buying a pram and can help give expert tips, as well as step you through all the features and ‘how-to’ details.
When it comes to buying a used pram, check that the pram complies with current safety standards and give it the common sense once-over. For example loose parts on the pram and anything that is not sturdy could mean the pram is no longer safe to use.
How much should I spend on a pram?
Searching prams on tinitrader.com.au by price only will show just how much variation there is. However, the cost-per-use rule of thumb can be very handy. There is no question your pram will be covering quite a few kilometres, so when you’re weighing up dollars, factor in its immediate use, as well as its long-term shelf-life not only for this baby, but perhaps the next brother or sister who might follow.
Are there prams that suit different activities and needs?
Prams can certainly be tailored to your lifestyle.
- Moving your baby easily between car and pram – some models enable you to simply slot your baby’s bassinette or car seat into the pram, so that they can continue to sleep as you move them from A to B.
- Walking on gravelly/stony/undulating surfaces – prams with larger wheels and enhanced suspension tend to be more robust and sturdy for difficult terrain.
- Running – if you plan to run with your child in a pram, look for specialised models that tend to come with three wheels. The wheels are usually larger and bike-like in appearance, to make for fast rolling. Consider the safety of running with new babies.
- Quick visits to the shops – strollers are lightweight, easy to pack and ideal for slightly older kids when you’re just ducking out to the shops or making a quick visit somewhere.
- For more than one – there are specialised prams for twins, triplets or configurations that suit, for example, a toddler and baby. Most models now are side-by-side facing allowing you easy access, and equal visibility for each little passenger.
How should my child be seated in the pram?
New babies shouldn’t be seated. With their soft little spines still strengthening, lying flat in the pram is the ideal position for these tiny ones. As they start to grow and they become more inquisitive about their surrounds, they will appreciate being front-facing to maximise the view.
Are there other accessories or features I should consider?
Definitely – the below ideas can help you decide on the pram that’s right for you:
- If you’re going to be the person lifting it in and out of the car most of the time, then what weight can you comfortably and safely handle?
- Will your pram easily fit in your car?
- Are extra storage features going to help you? Would a pram that doubles as a mini shopping trolley be an ideal scenario?
- Are you buying your pram with future little ones in mind? If so, does it have the flexibility to change and adapt to pushing more than one child?
- Does your pram provide good accessory options to protect against rain, wind and sun?
