As winter approaches, ensuring your pushchair is safe and ready for the colder months is essential. From icy paths to dark evenings, winter brings unique challenges for parents. Kirsty Carroll, Showroom Manager at Kiddies Kingdom, shares expert tips to keep your little one safe on winter walks.
Keep baby warm without overheating
Getting outside in winter is great, but layering correctly is key. Kirsty suggests, “Dress your baby in layers to trap heat. A good rule is one extra layer than what you wear. A snug base layer, insulated mid-layer, and a weatherproof outer layer work best. Don’t forget a hat, as babies lose most heat through their heads.”
A common mistake parents make is covering the pushchair opening with a blanket. Kirsty warns, “This restricts airflow and can be dangerous. Instead, tuck a blanket up to their chest, leaving their face exposed. A footmuff is a great alternative, offering warmth without limiting airflow.”
Protect against wind and rain
Winter weather can be unpredictable, making a rain cover a must-have accessory. Kirsty advises, “A rain cover keeps your child dry, comfortable, and protected from cold wind. Wet or damp clothes don’t dry quickly in winter and increase the risk of hypothermia.”
Strong winds and low temperatures can also cause windburn, leaving your baby’s skin red and dry. Kirsty says, “A pushchair rain cover shields your baby’s face from cold winds, preventing irritation.”
Stay visible in the dark
Shorter days mean darker walks, making visibility essential. Kirsty recommends, “Stick to main roads and well-lit paths. Reflective tape or patches on your pushchair improve visibility in low light.”
Parents should also ensure they are seen. “A reflective vest or sash may not be stylish, but it increases safety, especially when crossing roads or walking near traffic,” she adds.
Choose a pushchair with reliable brakes
Stopping safely on wet or icy surfaces is crucial. Kirsty advises, “Choose a pushchair with easy-to-use brakes that lock both wheels. This reduces the risk of slipping on icy pavements.”
For extra safety, she warns, “Make sure little hands can’t reach the brake release lever, as curious toddlers love to explore.”
Keep pushchair wheels clean to prevent issues
Muddy and wet paths can cause wheels to stick or lock, making the pushchair difficult to manoeuvre. Kirsty suggests, “Use a hose or pressure washer to clean mud off wheels. A stiff brush with warm water and washing-up liquid works well for dried dirt.”
Rock salt, used on roads and pavements, can cause corrosion. Kirsty says, “To prevent damage, clean wheels regularly and apply a silicone-based spray to keep them moving smoothly.”
Choosing the right pushchair for winter
The right pushchair makes winter walks safer and more comfortable. Kirsty advises, “Think about where you’ll be using it. If walking on paved paths, a lightweight pushchair works well. For uneven or muddy surfaces, choose one with sturdy suspension and all-terrain wheels.”
Lifestyle also plays a role. Kirsty suggests, “Parents who drive often may prefer a compact, foldable pushchair. Those with multiple little ones should look for twin or triple pushchairs with a single footrest for added safety and comfort.” Check the pushchair’s compatibility with your car seat if using a travel system
By following these tips, parents can enjoy safe and cosy winter walks with their little ones.
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