10 Costly Mistakes First-Time Parents Make When Buying a Pushchair (And How to Avoid Them)
10 Costly Mistakes First-Time Parents Make When Buying a Pushchair (And How to Avoid Them)
Introduction: Avoid These Mistakes — Save Your Sanity (and Your Money!)
You’re about to buy your baby’s first pushchair, and it’s exciting! But let’s be honest — it’s also overwhelming. With so many options, features, and prices, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cost you time, money, and sanity.
The last thing you want is to realize your pushchair doesn’t fit in your car boot, is too heavy to lift, or worse — isn’t even suitable for your newborn! But don’t worry. By the time you finish this guide, you’ll know exactly which mistakes to avoid and how to make the smartest buying decision.
Here are 10 of the most common mistakes first-time parents make when buying a pushchair — and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Focusing on Looks Instead of Practicality
It’s easy to fall in love with a sleek, stylish pushchair you’ve seen on Instagram or TikTok. The colour, the design, and even the brand name can tempt you. But here’s the truth: looks don’t always equal practicality.
Imagine this: You’ve just bought a beautiful pushchair that’s all the rage. But when you actually start using it, you discover it’s impossible to fold with one hand. Now you’re stuck at the park, juggling your baby, the pushchair, and your changing bag. Not so glamorous anymore, right?
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Prioritise functionality over aesthetics. A pushchair should make your life easier, not harder.
- Look for one-handed fold features. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.
- Choose a pushchair that fits your daily lifestyle (more on that later).
Mistake #2: Not Considering the Size and Weight of the Pushchair
You might assume all pushchairs are lightweight, but that’s not always the case. Some models are like mini-tanks — sturdy but heavy. If you’ll be lifting your pushchair into the car boot regularly or using public transport, weight matters.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- You’ll struggle to lift it in and out of your car.
- Using stairs or public transport becomes a nightmare.
- You’ll feel like you’re pushing a gym weight rather than a baby pushchair.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Check the product weight in the specs before buying.
- Look for words like “lightweight” or “compact” in the product description.
- Try lifting and folding pushchairs in-store to see how heavy they really are.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Measure Your Car Boot
This one’s a classic. You buy a pushchair only to find out it doesn’t fit in your car boot. It’s a rookie mistake, but it happens all the time.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- You’ll be forced to remove the pushchair wheels every time you load it into the car.
- You may even have to fold down your car seats, which isn’t ideal when you’ve got shopping or luggage.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Measure your car boot (length, width, and height) before buying a pushchair.
- Check the folded dimensions of the pushchair online.
- If you’re buying in-store, ask the staff if you can try fitting the pushchair into your boot.
Mistake #4: Overlooking the Pushchair’s Folding Mechanism
You’re at the park, baby in one arm, nappy bag on your shoulder, and now you have to fold the pushchair. If it takes two hands, you’re stuck.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- It’s stressful trying to fold a pushchair while holding a baby.
- You’ll feel frustrated every time you need to fold it.
- You may avoid outings just to avoid the hassle.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Look for “one-handed fold” in the product description.
- Watch demonstration videos online before buying.
- Test it in-store — if it takes too many steps, move on to a different model.
Mistake #5: Buying Without Thinking About Storage Space at Home
Where will you store the pushchair when you’re not using it? If you live in a flat or have limited hallway space, this is crucial.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- Your hallway becomes a cluttered mess.
- You may have to disassemble it after every use.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Look for foldable pushchairs that stand upright when folded.
- Consider a compact travel system if space is limited.
Mistake #6: Not Checking If It’s Newborn-Compatible
Not all pushchairs are suitable for newborns. Some are only safe for babies 6 months and older, which means you’ll need to buy a carrycot or car seat attachment.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- You may have to spend more money on attachments.
- Your baby may not be able to lie flat, which is crucial for newborns.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Look for pushchairs that are “suitable from birth”.
- Check if they recline fully to a flat position.
- Look for models that allow you to attach a carrycot.
Mistake #7: Forgetting About Terrain and Everyday Use
Do you live in a city with smooth pavements, or will you be pushing your baby on gravel paths? Your choice of wheels matters.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- Small wheels struggle on uneven surfaces.
- Bumpy rides can disturb your baby’s sleep.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- If you’ll be walking on rough terrain, opt for all-terrain pushchairs with large wheels.
- For city use, small, swivel wheels are easier to manoeuvre.
Mistake #8: Skipping the “Push Test” in-Store
Pushchairs may look smooth, but some feel stiff and clunky to push.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- You’ll struggle to turn sharp corners.
- It feels heavy and uncomfortable to push for long periods.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Push it around the store to see how it handles.
- Check if the wheels are smooth and easy to turn.
Mistake #9: Ignoring Adjustable Handles
If you and your partner are different heights, a fixed handle can cause major discomfort.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- You’ll get back pain from hunching over.
- Your partner may refuse to push the pushchair at all!
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Look for models with adjustable handles.
- Telescopic or height-adjustable handles work for parents of different heights.
Mistake #10: Underestimating the Importance of Accessories
Accessories might seem like extras, but they can make life a lot easier.
How This Mistake Affects You:
- You’ll need to buy accessories separately (and they aren’t cheap).
- You may be caught off guard by rain or cold weather.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Look for pushchairs that include accessories like rain covers, cup holders, and footmuffs.
- Check product descriptions carefully — don’t assume extras are included.
Conclusion: Avoid These Mistakes, Enjoy Peace of Mind
Buying your first pushchair doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these 10 mistakes, you’ll save money, time, and headaches. Remember to prioritize functionality over looks, test it in-store, and make sure it suits your daily life.
If you’re still feeling unsure, don’t worry. Our other guides will walk you through the best pushchairs for small car boots, lightweight pushchairs for city living, and more. Check them out to feel fully prepared for your purchase.
