Buying Your First Pushchair
Reading Time: 15 Minutes
Summary
- ‘From birth’ pushchairs often use a carrycot (either included or sold separately) and usually have parent-facing and world-facing seat options.
- Travel-system compatible models allow you to fit a car seat to the pushchair frame.
- Choose a pushchair suited to where you live, where you’ll use it most and where you’ll store it.
The different types of first-stage pushchair available
When buying your first pushchair, you need one that’s suitable from birth. First-stage pushchairs are typically ‘from birth’ using a carrycot (included or sold separately) and often offer parent-facing and world-facing modes. Many are travel-system compatible for quick car-to-stroller swaps.

All-terrain Pushchair
A multi-terrain pushchair is usually heavier with bigger, tougher wheels and extra suspension so you can head off-road. Most have lockable front wheels to tackle rougher paths. If you’re planning country walks and outdoor day trips, this style is ideal. Many have carrycot and/or car seat options when bought as a bundle.

Urban Pushchair
With nippier wheels and a lighter frame, urban pushchairs are great for city streets and in-and-out shop runs. They’re typically lighter and more portable than all-terrain options. Some are from-birth when sold with a carrycot.

Compact Pushchair
More portable than other types and ideal for public transport or tight storage spaces. Not all are suitable from birth, but some offer a compact carrycot option.

Double Pushchair
If you’re expecting twins or looking ahead: choose Tandem (one behind the other) for easier doorways and public transport, or Twin (side-by-side). Single-to-double and “Plus 1” styles offer flexibility for growing families.
Tip: If you’d like to purchase your pushchair with a carrycot and/or car seat included, look for a value “bundle”. Clicking a car seat onto your frame is super handy for short, in-and-out trips.
How to choose the best pushchair for you
Think about your daily life: where you’ll use it, storage space, transport, terrain, and how long you plan to use it. Set a budget you’re comfortable with; sometimes a little more unlocks features that save time and last longer.
Useful features to look for
Benefits for baby
- Comfy seat with supportive padding and breathable fabrics.
- 5-point safety harness with padded straps and easy buckle.
- Parent-facing and world-facing options to suit their stage.
Benefits for parents
- Height-adjustable handlebar.
- Quick, one-hand fold and compact shape when folded.
- Spacious, easy-access under-seat basket.
- All-weather protection with ventilation (rain and sun).
Pushchair accessories
- Parasol: UPF 50+ shade for sunny days.
- Rain cover: Tailored fit with airflow.
- Ride-on board: Perfect for older siblings.
- Cup holder: Two hands on the push, coffee still onboard.
- Footmuff: Cosy, breathable lining with weather-resistant shell.
Pushchair Safety
Always read the instructions before first use and show anyone who’ll push (grandparents, caregivers) how to open/close, brake and lock safely.
Do’s
- Use a fully lie-flat seat (or carrycot) for newborns up to ~6 months.
- Secure your child with the harness every time.
- Check brakes are clear and easy to apply.
- Apply the brake whenever you stop; use the wrist strap on hills.
Don’ts
- Don’t hang heavy bags from the handlebar.
- Don’t exceed the weight limits.
- Don’t open/close within reach of little fingers.
Refresh it weekly
A regular refresh is a good idea if you’re using your pushchair frequently or after spillages.
- Use oil-free wipes then lightly vacuum. Remove wet mud from wheels with a hose or pressure washer.
- Remove dry mud using a stiff brush.
- Clean wheels with warm water and washing liquid or gentle soap. Removing wheels makes it easier.
- Once the wheels are dry, check the pushchair still moves and brakes properly.
Pushchair FAQs
It depends on your lifestyle (terrain, storage, transport). Use the types above as a guide and try a few in store if you can.
Prams/carrycots offer lie-flat support for newborns. Pushchairs/strollers are seats on wheels; some are from-birth with a carrycot.
Regular quick refreshes plus a deeper monthly clean (see the steps above) will keep it in great shape.