A pram might look perfect in photos, but the real test is how it fits into your everyday life. Will it handle the places you walk and visit? Can you fold it when you’re juggling a changing bag? And will it fit in your car boot?
Before you buy, try these five simple checks. They can help you find a pram that feels comfortable to use, not just one that looks good.
1. Push it around
Take the pram for a proper walk if you can. Try turning corners, moving through a narrow space and steering with one hand. Pay attention to how it feels when you change direction or go over a small bump.
Think about where you’ll use it most. A pram that feels great on a smooth shop floor may feel different on uneven pavements or park paths. If you can’t test it on those surfaces, ask what the wheels and suspension are designed for.
2. Fold and unfold it yourself
Don’t just watch a demonstration. Have a go at folding and opening the pram yourself, then try it a second time without help.
Check whether the steps feel easy to remember, whether it stays folded, and how much space it takes up. If you expect to use public transport or store it in a hallway, the folded size may matter as much as the pram’s size when it’s open.
3. Lift it
You may need to lift your pram into a car boot, up a doorstep or into storage. Try lifting it as you would at home, while it’s folded and with any parts you’d normally need to carry.
Check the weight of the exact setup you’re considering. Adding a carrycot or changing the seat can affect what you’ll be lifting.
4. Test the brake
Find the brake and try it with the shoes you normally wear. Is it easy to apply and release? Can you tell clearly when it’s engaged?
Before making a decision, check that you’re comfortable using the brake every time you stop. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially when parking the pram or placing your baby in it.
5. Check your car boot
Measure your boot before you shop, including the opening, not just the space inside. Compare those measurements with the pram’s folded dimensions. If possible, test the folded pram in your car yourself.
Remember to allow room for anything else you regularly carry, such as shopping, a changing bag or luggage. It’s also worth checking whether you need to remove the seat or wheels to make it fit.
One last check: does it suit your day-to-day routine?
The best pram for you depends on how you’ll actually use it. Think about your home, your car, your usual walks and where you’ll store it. Ask to see the full setup you plan to buy, and confirm what’s included rather than assuming accessories shown in a photo come as standard.
A few minutes of hands-on testing can make a big difference. Push it, fold it, lift it, test the brake and check the boot. Once you know what matters most to your family, explore our Prams & Pushchairs collection and compare the details of the models that catch your eye.
Try a pram in person at Babythingz
Want to see how those five checks feel in real life? Visit our Benton store to see, push, fold and compare prams before you decide. Our team can answer questions, but the important part is finding a pram that feels right for you.
You can secure your chosen pram in-store with a 20% deposit, and we’ll store it free of charge until you need it.