A pram may be one of the most expensive and important items you’ll be buying in preparation for the arrival of your newborn, and one of the products you’ll be using most days over the next few years as your child grows. 

With some prams costing into the hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars, it’s a purchase that can take a lot of research and consideration. 

As well as looking at features and design – including how easy a pram is to fold, how big it is, how much it weighs, and even how it looks and what accessories it comes with – you also need to consider how safe it is.

On this page:

• Pram safety issues identified by ����Vlog testing
• iCandy Peach 7
• Silver Cross Wave 3

Pram safety issues identified by ����Vlog testing

While prams sold in Australia need to meet mandatory safety standards, ����Vlog experts also test to a newer, voluntary safety standard that goes above and beyond mandatory requirements.

Although we’re pleased to see many manufacturers now test to this standard too, unfortunately it’s not compulsory and our results show that many prams still pose significant safety risks.

“While the ����Vlog labs have seen an overall improvement in pram safety, there are still many models on sale which have serious fall, head entrapment, strangulation and other risks. In fact, 15 out of 48 models in our latest review failed our key safety tests,” says ����Vlog babies and kids expert Kim Gilmour.

And in case you thought you could avoid safety issues simply by buying a high-end model, think again – we’ve seen safety failures even in expensive, well-known brands. 

“We found that in some cases the pram wheels could move even when the parking brake was engaged, and in others, a child’s head could become trapped between the head barrier and the end of the seat,” says Kim.

“Plus, the straps in some prams pose a strangulation risk, while others broke in durability testing.“

����Vlog experts also remind Australians that if you’re buying children’s products from international online platforms such as eBay or Amazon, you can’t always trust that the product will comply with local safety requirements, so be wary if you’re shopping from overseas retailers.

The following products were the lowest ranked in our latest testing of prams. ����Vlog recommends that you avoid purchasing these, or if you already own them, to stop using them immediately.

iCandy Peach 7

• Price: $2600
• ����Vlog Expert Rating: 32%
• Passed our key safety tests: No

One of the most expensive prams in our tests, the iCandy is even pricier than high-end brands like Bugaboo, Joolz and Stokke. 

But despite its high price, its scores are very low – it received the lowest score overall in our test of 48 prams.

For this kind of money, it’s reasonable to expect that a pram would meet or exceed safety standards, but unfortunately the iCandy Peach 7 didn’t pass our safety tests or the mandatory standard when we tested it in our labs.

Our expert testers found that the pram’s straps pose a potential strangulation risk – the shoulder and waist straps don’t automatically separate from each other when the buckle is pressed and they are difficult to separate manually. This means they create a loop that could be a strangulation hazard.

In addition, when the pram is fully reclined it poses a potential head entrapment hazard and fall risk, which means that a young baby could be injured by falling out or getting their head caught in the hood of the stroller. 

Both of these issues represent serious safety failures.

iCandy responds

iCandy disagrees with our findings, saying: “The iCandy Peach has been tested extensively internally and independently by labs around the world, with no reported issues of test failures or non-compliance.”

It also says the seat angle of the pram doesn’t recline enough for the head entrapment/fall test to apply, but ����Vlog stands by its results.

Read the full iCandy Peach 7 review.

Silver Cross Wave 3

• Price: $2299
• ����Vlog Expert Rating: 33%
• Passed our key safety tests: No

Another pricey pram, the Silver Cross Wave 3 bills itself as a ‘future-proof travel system’ that can be configured 12 different ways, including converting from a single to double stroller. 

While the stroller offers obvious conveniences that appeal to parents – such as the adjustable seat and handle height and adjustable seat recline – ����Vlog experts found two serious safety failures with this pram.

The first is that the waist and crotch straps can be removed from the seat, which means a child can become entangled in the straps causing injury. And the second is that a child can potentially be injured by falling into the soft fabric space between the seat and soft stroller canopy.

Silver Cross responds

Silver Cross disagrees with our findings, saying: “Silver Cross treats all matters regarding product safety with the utmost importance. All Silver Cross products are rigorously tested for reliability, durability, and safety. Our products are tested and certified by an accredited independent laboratory, and typically approved compliant to multiple international safety standards”.

It says it can “confidently” report no safety issues have been raised. ����Vlog stands by its findings. 

Read the full Silver Cross Wave 3 review.

Other pram safety failures

These two prams are among our lowest scoring, but our testing has identified others that also have serious safety failures, many of them still on the market, and some of them costing well over $1000.

Before you start shopping for a pram for your baby, check our pram and stroller reviews. You can filter the results to check which prams have passed all the key safety tests, and we also tell you how easy they are to use.

And if you’re looking at a second-hand stroller, you can search past results for discontinued products by applying our filter.

Other prams that didn’t pass key safety tests include:

• Pouch 2 in 1 – $360
• Baby Jogger City Select Lux (Single) – $1295
• Mountain Buggy Cosmopolitan 4.0 2021+ – $1220
• Cybex Gazelle S – $1899
• Cosatto Giggle Quad – $1399
• Baby Joy Baby Stroller – $200
• 4Baby Como – $330
• Redsbaby Aeron – $799
• Phil & Teds Go V2 – $400
• Leclercbaby Influencer – $860
• Bugaboo Fox 5 – $1899
• Edwards & Co Oscar M2 – $899
• Baby Jogger City Select 2 – $1299

How we test if a pram or stroller is safe

“There is a mandatory safety standard that ,” says Kim.

“However, it’s outdated. We test to the voluntary 2013 standard which has had widespread adoption by manufacturers and goes above and beyond mandatory requirements. There’s even a more recent 2022 revision now that takes newer designs of prams into account such as convertible tricycle strollers.”

“We believe the voluntary requirements should be made mandatory, so our test experts go above and beyond, by not only testing against the mandatory requirements but also testing against the voluntary standard and basing our recommendations off of it,” she says.

Our expert testers have decades of experience in testing children’s products and sit on the Australian Standards committee for prams and strollers, so we keep up to date with changes to the standard. Our lab is also NATA-accredited to test products to both the mandatory and voluntary prams and strollers standards.

To learn more about our testing process, read . 

The post Prams to avoid buying appeared first on ����Vlog.

One option is to start your baby in a capsule, and progress to a forward-facing seat and then a booster seat. But a convertible car seat can change modes to suit various stages, and it will keep your child facing rearward for longer, which is generally considered safer.��

In this guide, we explain the different types of car restraints available for the different ages and stages of growth of a baby or young child. We also share the safest models as rated by Australia’s independent tester of infant car seats.

On this page:

• Best baby and child car seats
• The different kinds of child restraints
• What is ISOFIX?
• Things to consider when buying a child car restraint
• Car seat laws in Australia
• Is it worth buying a capsule?
• How to install a car seat
• When is it safe for a child to use an adult seatbelt?

Best baby and child car seats

All car seats sold in Australia need to meet mandatory safety standards. The independently tests car seats above and beyond minimum standards, and all models listed on its website are considered safe. Those with more than one star have an even better safety performance than what’s legally required. 

Below are some of the best baby capsule car seats and child car seats still available for sale, with protection ratings out of 5.

Note: As CREP regularly updates its testing protocols, results from 2021 onwards can’t be compared with models tested in previous years. See for information on crash protection star ratings and more.

Click on the linked protection rating in the table below to see more data on how this car seat was rated under the Child Restraint Evaluation Program.

Types of child restraints

0 to 6 months – Capsule

A baby/infant capsule is rear-facing with an inbuilt harness, which is the legal requirement for babies under 6 months. Capsules can be used for babies up to about 6 months of age or slightly older if they still fit into the seat. Unlike other types of car seats, capsules can be easily taken in and out of the car, and used as a carrier or attached to a pram to minimise disturbing your baby.

Alternatively, consider a convertible car seat (see below) to keep your child in a safe rearward position until at least 2.5 years.

6 months to 4 years – Forward-facing car seat

A forward-facing (or front-facing) restraint has its own inbuilt six-point harness for your child. This should be used until your child is at least 4 years old, but can be used for longer if they still fit.

Even better, a convertible car seat (see next) can keep your child in a safe, rear-facing position until at least 2.5 years of age.

0 up to 8 years – Convertible car seats

The main benefit of convertible car seats is that some allow young children to face rearward for longer, which is safer. They may also be more cost-effective, depending on which model you choose. ��

The options for convertible car seats include:

• 0 to 4 years – Suitable for newborns, these car seats can be converted from rear-facing to forward-facing as your child grows. Some models allow for children to be rear-facing for 12 months, while others offer up to 2.5 years, which is often preferred because of the increased safety of the rear-facing position.
• 6 months to 8 years –��These forward-facing seats can be used as soon as your baby is no longer legally required to be rear-facing. They differ from a single mode forward-facing seat as, after 4 years of age, they can be converted from a harnessed front-facing seat to a booster seat used with an adult seatbelt.
• 0 to 8 years –��These seats let your child face rearward for 12 months, and convert from rear-facing to forward-facing. Some even convert again to a booster seat by having a removable harness. These models can serve as the only car seat you buy for the duration of your child’s needs, but it’s important to consider whether the seat will continue to suit your lifestyle for the entire period (they can be quite bulky) as well as the effect of wear and tear over an eight-year period.

4 years to 8–10 years – Booster seat

A booster seat is also forward-facing, but is usually slimmer than a forward-facing car seat and is used with an adult seatbelt rather than an inbuilt harness. It’s designed for children aged from 4 to around 10 years old and some simply sit on top of the adult seat, while others may also have an additional tether.��

Modern versions have high backs and sides to provide side-impact protection and support for sleeping children.��

Booster cushions (with no side or back protection) are illegal to sell in Australia and don’t meet current safety standards.

What is ISOFIX?

ISOFIX is a car seat installation system that involves clipping the car seat into anchorage points manufactured into cars. Newer car seats are ISOFIX-compatible and are usually easier to install than the old seatbelt system. The old seatbelt method is just as safe when installed correctly.

Can you use an ISOFIX car seat from overseas in Australia?

Despite the temptation to buy or import a cheaper ISOFIX car restraint from overseas, it’s illegal to use one as it won’t meet Australian safety standard AS/ANZ 1754.

Things to consider when buying a child car restraint

All car seats sold in Australia need to meet mandatory safety standards, and come with a label showing they meet safety standard AS/NZS 1754 (either 2004, 2010 or 2013).

Apart from safety, you should look at:

• Weight: Pick it up and see how easy it is to move around.
• Shoulder markers near the straps: To help show when it’s time to move up a size.
• Cup holders: Nice-to-have, but more useful for older kids than babies.
• Cleaning: Kids will make a mess. Do the covers and other parts come off easily? Check out our step-by-step guide for cleaning a child car seat.
• Compatibility: If you’re buying a capsule, check if it’s compatible with your stroller (you may need to buy adaptors).
• Rear-facing: Generally, rear-facing is safer for young children, so you may prefer to choose a convertible car seat that can face rearwards for longer (up to 2.5 years).

Don’t forget to check your car

• Room: It is important to ensure there’s space to get in and out once the seat is installed. If you’re planning on expanding your family, consider whether there is enough space to have more than one restraint. Most stores will let you take the car seat to your car to check how it fits before buying.
• Seatbelts: Be sure to test your seatbelts are long enough to thread through the seat.
• Anchorage points: Make sure your car has enough anchor points if you have more than one seat or capsule.
• ISOFIX: Make sure your car is compatible if you’re choosing an ISOFIX car seat.

Car seat laws in Australia

0 to 6 months

• Children must be seated in a rear-facing car seat or infant capsule.

6 months to 4 years

• Children are to use a rear- or forward-facing car restraint with an inbuilt harness.
• Most children are allowed to stay rear-facing up to approximately 2 or 3 years of age, which is safest.
• Children under 4 years old can’t travel in the front seat of a vehicle with two or more rows (but can, for example, in a one-row ute).

4 to 7 years

• Children under the age of seven are to use a forward-facing restraint or booster seat, with or without a harness. Even after 7, it’s safest for your child to remain in a booster seat until they are at least 145cm tall. (For older kids, see the section about best practice when it comes to using an adult seat belt.)

Other rules

• If all back seats are occupied by children under the age of 7, a child aged between 4 and 7 can occupy the front seat in a forward-facing restraint or booster seat.
• If your child is too tall or heavy for their age group’s restraint, you can move them to the next size seat.
• In many states, taxis are exempt from these laws, but there are exceptions. For example, in NSW when travelling in a taxi, children under six months need to be in an approved rear-facing restraint and children aged 6 to 12 months need to be in an approved rear- or forward-facing restraint. After this age they are allowed to use the adult seatbelt. NSW passengers in a rideshare (such as an Uber) will need to follow the same rules for private vehicles. Check the requirements for your state.
• There’s now a standard for child restraints suitable for aircraft travel.
• Children should remain in a harness for as long as they can fit into it.

Don’t buy a second-hand child car seat or capsule

Unless you know the car seat’s full history, we say buy a new one. Even if a second-hand seat looks OK, it may still be damaged.

If you do decide to go second-hand, pick a seat that:

• is less than 10 years old (look for the date of manufacture sticker)
• has a sticker with the SAI Global logo, certified to standard AS/NZS 1754
• comes with an instruction manual
• has a smooth, working buckle
• doesn’t have fraying or broken straps/harness
• has no cracks or stress marks on the seat’s plastic shell
• hasn’t been damaged in an accident.

Is it worth buying a capsule?

If you have a new arrival on the way, you may be wondering whether you should buy a capsule (which can only be used for around six months) or go straight to a convertible car seat which can be used from 0 to 4 years. While both options are equally safe, there are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros

• A capsule can be easily removed from the car and carried.
• A capsule that’s compatible with your stroller can replace a bassinet attachment. These all-in-one travel systems allow you to remove the capsule and click it into place on your pram without needing to disturb your baby, particularly if they’ve just nodded off.
• After your baby outgrows the capsule you only need to buy a 6 months to 8 years forward-facing convertible car seat.

Cons

• Most capsules can only be used for around six months (depending on the size of your baby).
• The cost of a capsule can be similar to a convertible car seat that can be used from birth to 4 years.

If you’d like to use a capsule but on a tight budget, a number of companies offer one-, three- or six-month rentals with prices ranging from around $100 to $200 for six months, which is around half the price of buying your own. Make sure the company conducts a safety check of the capsule before issuing it for hire.

How to install a car seat

Transport for NSW research from 2024 found 41% of installations had at least one “serious error”. So if you’re brand new to car seats, authorised fitters are the best option.

You can expect to pay $30–$75 per new installation. Check with your state’s local Kidsafe, or with your road traffic authority or motoring organisation:��

•  authorised fitting stations
•  accredited auto care centres
• car seat fitting
• car seat fitting
• car seat fitting
• safety centre (SA)
• child restraints (Tas).

Some local councils offer free car seat installation or checking sessions.

If you’re doing it yourself, follow the instructions and pay attention to the details. Each seat can have its own quirks. ISOFIX car seats tend to be easier to install (but your car needs to be compatible). You may need extensions for your seat’s tether strap depending on the position of the anchor point – mainly for rear-facing restraints. Use the minimum number of extension straps.

When can a child use an adult seatbelt?

Legally, children need to be suitably restrained, and if a child aged 7 or over is too small to fit comfortably in an adult seatbelt, then it’s safest to remain in a booster. that a child passes the “five step test” in order to wear an adult seatbelt, usually when the child is 145cm tall.

1. Can your child sit with their back against the seat back?
2. Are their knees bent comfortably over the front edge of the seat cushion?
3. In this position is the shoulder belt across the mid shoulder?
4. Is the lap belt low and sits across the top of their thighs?
5. Can they stay in this position for the whole trip?

According to accident prevention charity , the risk of serious injury for children who can still fit in a booster seat but don’t use one is increased by up to 3.5 times. It is calling for a change in the law to make it mandatory for children to be in a booster until at least 10 years of age, or when they can pass the 5-step test.

In practice, however, there aren’t many boosters out there that accommodate children aged 8 and over. One is the Britax Safe-N-Sound Kid Guard ($299) which is suitable for children from 4 up to approximately age 10 and receives a 3.8 star protection rating from CREP.

The post How to choose the best baby and child car seats appeared first on ����Vlog.

On this page:

• Double pram/stroller types
• Are double strollers safe?
• What to look for in a double pram/stroller
• Double pram safety checklist
• Cost

Double stroller/pram types

There are four main types of prams or strollers for those needing one set of wheels for two kids:

• side-by-side
• tandem
• single-seaters with an additional seat attached
• wagon

The right one for you is mostly a matter of personal preference. Use this guide to work out what you need, and try different types in the store — with the children in them, if possible — to get a feel for which works best.

Side-by-side prams/strollers

For two babies, two toddlers or one of each.

This type of pram has two seats next to each other. Look for one where both seats recline independently.

Pros

• It’s easier to see both bubs at once.
• Depending on the model, they’re usually better for twin newborns, as you can recline both seats fully.
• While generally much bigger than single strollers, we find some that aren’t too bulky.

Cons

• They are generally quite wide, making fitting through doorways and narrow supermarket aisles tricky.
• They’re heavy, so it can be difficult to get the pram or stroller up a step or kerb by pushing down on the rear handle.

Tandem prams/strollers

For one baby and one toddler, or two toddlers.

Tandem prams have one seat in front of the other.

Pros

• They are narrower than a side-by-side pram.

Cons

• They are long and heavy, so opening doors can be difficult.
• Getting the pram up a step or kerb by pushing down on the rear handle can be a challenge.
• It can be harder to see the child seated in the front seat.
• While the back seats generally recline far enough for babies under six months (who shouldn’t be placed in a stroller seat unless the backrest can be reclined more than 130°), it’s rare to find one with a front seat that does, making them unsuitable for twin newborns.

Single + toddler seat

For one baby and one toddler, or two toddlers.

A single-seat pram or stroller with a toddler seat attachment. You buy the stroller for your first, then add a toddler seat when child number two arrives.

Pros

• You won’t need a whole new pram.
• The overall length and width of the single pram will remain similar (though it will be bulkier and heavier).
• Many seats can be attached at either the front or rear of the pram.

Cons

• Toddler seats aren’t usually fully reclinable, so they’re not suitable for newborns.
• Safety can be an issue if you don’t load and unload your children as per the instructions – doing it in the wrong order can leave the stroller unbalanced and it may tip over.

Wagon strollers

For two babies, two toddlers or one of each

This type of stroller looks more like a wagon, where the two babies or toddlers sit facing each other.

Pros

• They provide lots of space and carrying capacity.��
• Engaging seat set-up for children.

Cons

• Not suitable for newborns.
• Can be very heavy and bulky to carry when folded.
• They can be bulky and difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces, especially when at full capacity.
• Can be difficult to fold

Are double strollers safe?

Unfortunately, ����Vlog tests of double strollers tend to find only a small number that pass all of our safety and durability tests. But we usually find several others we think are worth considering, as they have only minor failures.

What to look for in a double pram/stroller

Size and weight

This is perhaps the biggest consideration. Measure the stroller before you buy it to make sure it fits into your car boot without needing the wheels removed. They also tend to be very bulky even when folded – bear that in mind, especially if you’re planning on using public transport. Check that you’re able to lift the stroller up and down stairs and kerbs – some strollers weigh 17kg or more. When you add your precious cargo into the mix, you could be pushing 30kg or even more uphill.

Wheels

Swivelling front wheels are easier to manoeuvre, but it’s useful if they can be locked for travelling at higher speeds or over rough terrain. Large wheels tend to be better on kerbs and stairs, while inflatable ones can puncture but generally give a more comfortable ride. Before purchasing, give wheels a tug to see they don’t come off.

Brakes

We can’t overstate how important these are! Look for rear brakes on both wheels that are linked, so the left and right brakes can be activated by a single lever. Get an idea of how well they work by applying the brakes and then trying to push the handle. Check that they actively lock into position. Brakes that are foot-operated or operated by a lever on the handle mean you don’t have to bend down, but make sure you’re able to access them easily.

Adjustable backrest/seat recline

Some have an upright backrest that can also move to at least one semi-reclined position; some can be fully reclined (best for sleeping). A three-position adjustment makes the stroller more versatile. Babies under six months shouldn’t be placed in a stroller seat unless the backrest can be reclined more than 130°. A three-position adjustment makes the stroller more versatile. 

Five-point harness

Two shoulder straps (attached to the backrest at shoulder level; padded ones are softer), a waist strap and a crotch strap, with adjustable length (kids grow fast!). The waist straps in particular should be securely linked to the stroller’s frame, so they can’t lean out and tilt the stroller. Give the harness a tug to check that the seat doesn’t pull away from the frame. The straps should be easy to adjust and the buckles easy to use (for you, not your child). Look for buckles that won’t slide off the strap, and that when undone leave no closed loops in the harness (they’re a strangulation risk).

Footrest

A footrest reduces the chance of injury from your child’s feet touching the ground or getting caught in the front wheel.

Front bar

A detachable bar your child can hold onto. They’re usually not secure, so don’t use them to lift the pram.

Removable capsule

Some prams or strollers come with removable capsules, which convert into car seats so you don’t have to wake your baby up when shifting between pram and car and back again. Not all are suitable for newborns, so check before you buy. 

Storage

A basket or tray under the pram is useful for carrying things like nappies, baby food, clothes and your handbag. It shouldn’t be loaded beyond its weight limit (usually about 5kg) or the pram may become unbalanced and unsafe.

Note that we’ve seen some models where basket size may be impacted if your double stroller is a tandem style, or one that incorporates an additional seat underneath.

Platforms

Platforms clip or bolt to the rear of your pram and give an older toddler a place to stand while you push it. They can be a good way to give a child a chance to rest when they’re tired of walking, or just a fun ride to make outings more enjoyable. But make sure your bub is old enough to stand steadily while holding onto the pram frame, and check the maximum weight allowance. For longer trips, when your child is more likely to tire and needs to sit down for a long period, a toddler seat or two-seat pram is still a better solution.

Other features to look for

• Canopy
• Rain cover for wet weather
• Adjustable-height handles are handy for particularly short or tall people
• Insect cover

Double pram safety checklist

Look for certification to Safety Standard AS/NZS 2088, preferably the 2022 version, which is the latest and safest. Check for sharp or protruding parts or ones that could pose a choking risk, and gaps that could trap fingers or limbs.

Is there a child-resistant mechanism for locks? Is the stroller stable enough not to tip easily? Neither child in the stroller should be able to reach any moving parts like wheels or brakes. If the pram/stroller comes with wheel guards to help prevent this, be sure to install them.

Cost

The double strollers we’ve tested range in price from $229 to $2299.

The post How to buy the best double stroller or pram appeared first on ����Vlog.

On this page:

• The problems with unsafe portable cots
• The cot with six serious safety failures
• The portable cots that failed our key safety tests
• Responses from manufacturers
• Tips for buying a portacot and how to use it safely

A portable cot (also known as a travel cot or portacot) is a handy item to have in the first few years of your child’s life. It’s great for holidays and sleepovers, and a convenient option if you want a second, collapsible cot at the grandparents’ or another carer’s house.��

But ����Vlog experts recommend taking great caution when you’re buying this product, as many popular brands pose serious safety risks to babies.��

“In our expert labs, we regularly test a selection of portable cots currently available on the Australian market,” says ����Vlog testing expert Kim Gilmour.��

“In our lab tests, over half of these products failed key safety requirements, which is a really disappointing result. Unfortunately, this is something we are used to seeing with this particular baby product.

“We assess all models in our labs against the most current Australian safety standard for portable cots, and are seeing models that fail crucial safety tests, such as mattress firmness.”

Gilmour says the new mandatory standard for portable cots, to come into law from January 2026, means that portable cots will need to comply with the most current Australian safety standard (the one ����Vlog tests to) or other similar European or US standard.

The problems with unsafe portable cots

“One portable cot scored 0% for performance, and several others received performance scores as low as 20%, simply because they had so many failures,” says Gilmour.��

In fact, 16 of the 27 models in our current review failed to pass ����Vlog’s key safety requirements – that’s more than half, a worryingly high proportion.

Products that failed did so for a number of reasons, including major head and limb entrapment risks and suffocation risks.��

Less serious hazards include finger entrapment risks, or the possibility a child may be able to open a zipper or combination of zippers and get out of the cot.

“Most of the safety failures we see relate to the portacot mattress either being not firm enough or not fitting snugly inside the portacot base,” says Gilmour.

“Soft or poorly fitting mattresses can increase the risk of sudden unexpected infant death��if an infant rolls face-first into it.��

“The good news is there are still plenty of safe portable cots that do pass our safety tests, and which we can recommend to parents. Others have only minor safety issues.

“However, when choosing a portacot for your baby, you want to make sure you’re making the safest choice possible, so we strongly recommend checking our reviews before you buy.

“And if you’ve already purchased one of these unsafe cots, ����Vlog recommends you return it to the retailer or manufacturer and ask for a full refund. You should note however that they may not oblige unless the cot has been officially recalled.”

The cot with six serious safety failures

In our mind, a cot with even one serious safety failure is one failure too many. But a cot with six serious failures is one that goes straight to the blacklist.��

Vevor is a home improvement retailer that says it sells “a selection of affordable and reliable products to customers around the world” on its own website as well as Amazon, eBay and other online marketplaces. In addition to products like tools, garden essentials, outdoor equipment and automotive supplies, Vevor also sells baby products.��

����Vlog expert testers found six serious safety failures with the Vevor Baby Bassinet P9070, a convertible cot/bassinet/bedside sleeper/change table mash-up.��

“Safety has taken a back seat with this cot, especially as it’s trying to be so many things at the same time,” says Gilmour.

“Our accredited labs test to current Australian standards and with the Vevor we found so many failures that our experts had no hesitation giving it a performance score of zero.

“The failures include multiple fall risks including with the attached change table, as well as head, neck and limb entrapment hazards. The mattress isn’t firm enough, and there are areas where the material is not breathable and could pose a suffocation risk.”��

The Vevor portable cot’s serious safety failures

• Fall risk: The height between the mattress and the top of the cot when it was in both the cot and bassinet adjustable positions (and with the cot side down) is too shallow.
• Suffocation risk: Problems with non-breathable material and zones near where a child would sleep.
• Suffocation risk: Mattress is not firm enough, creating a possible suffocation risk if a child rolls onto their side or front.
• Neck entrapment risks: At the top rails at the ends of the cot if the locking mechanism fails and the cot collapses inwards.��
• Fall risk: Due to insufficient barriers on the supplied change table.
• Head and limb entrapment risks: At various areas of the cot.

The portable cots that failed our key safety tests

• 4Baby Liteway Travel Cot EA11816��(tested in 2021)
• 4Baby Vacation Portacot EA12116 (tested in 2022)
• Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot (tested in 2022)
• Baby Joy 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Nursery Center with Changing Table (tested in 2025)
• Baby Studio 3 in 1 Portacot RA2231 (tested in 2025)
• Chicco Lullaby Easy Portacot�� (tested in 2020)
• Childcare Indi 3 in 1 Travel Cot 073455-340 (tested in 2025)
• Jengo Oasis 2 in 1 Folding Cot with Changer EA11590 (tested in 2025)
• Jengo Voyager 3 in 1 Portacot EA12306 (tested in 2025)
• Kmart Anko Travel Portacot 43-139-774 (tested in 2025)
• Love N Care 3 in 1 Sleep N Go HK 993G (tested in 2023)
• Love N Care Playland Travel Cot HK 999 (tested in 2018)
• Roger Armstrong 8 In 1 Portacot RA2232 (tested in 2023)
• Star Kidz Amico Super Light Travel Cot EA11816 (tested in 2021)
• Vee Bee Amado Travel & Play Cot N9560 (tested in 2018)
• Vevor Baby Bassinet, 12-Level Height Adjustable Easy to Fold Portable Baby Bassinet (tested in 2025)

Our full portable cot reviews include information on why these models failed safety tests (and responses from the manufacturers), plus portable cots that we do recommend as safe options.

Responses from manufacturers

In response to our tests, manufacturers disagreed with our results, showing us reports from third-party labs that indicate that their products pass safety standards. At������Vlog, we operate our own in-house accredited lab, and we stand by our results.

Tips for buying a portacot and how to use it safely

“Price or brand is not an indicator of how safe these products are,” says Gilmour.

“We find that even some of the leading brands of portacots have issues that pose safety risks for babies.��

“Our advice is to always check our reviews and do some research before you settle on which one to purchase.”��

Here are some tips on how to buy and use a portacot safely:

• Travel cots are designed to be used temporarily only – they are not suitable to use as a permanent sleep option.��
• Before you buy, check the government’s product safety website to see if there have been any product recalls or safety issues with particular brands or models.��
• Only use the mattress or padded base supplied by the manufacturer – don’t use other mattresses, as they can pose a suffocation risk or make the cot too shallow, allowing a child to climb out too easily.��
• The mattress should be firm and snug-fitting all around to avoid trapping the baby’s head.��
• Make sure there is breathable mesh material all around where it meets the top of the mattress area.
• Make sure there’s nothing sticking out that could snag the baby’s clothes or act as a foothold for the baby to climb out.��
• Don’t position the cot beside blind cords, power points, windows or other hazards.��
• Never put pillows, cot bumpers or soft toys in the portacot – not only because they’re a suffocation risk, but because they can also be used to climb out.��
• Once the baby weighs more than 15kg, or can undo the folding latches, stop using the portacot.

The post Over half of the portable cots tested by ����Vlog fail safety standards appeared first on ����Vlog.

On this page:

• Our expert testers
• How we choose what we test
• How we test prams and strollers
• Test criteria explained
• Our test lab

Get it right and you’ll have a safe stroller that’s easy to use and not too heavy to lift and pack away. Get it wrong and you’ll be left with a clunky piece of equipment that’ll put a strain on family outings.

We’ve assessed many strollers over the years and our expert testers have more than 15 years’ experience testing the quality and safety of various children’s products.

Our expert testers

Our current crop of expert testers have seen all manner of stroller brands, types and features roll through our labs, and they’ve put each one to the test to determine which ones are safest for your child and easy for you to use.��

On top of this, our testers sit on the Australian Standards committee for prams and strollers, so we keep up to date with any changes. Our lab is to test strollers against this standard.

How we choose what we test

Why do we choose one pram or stroller to test over another? There are a number of reasons for this, but our priority is to test what you’ll see in stores. This means we usually focus on big brand models that are commonly available in major retailers.

That doesn’t mean we won’t test smaller players. When we see something new and interesting come onto the market, we’re likely to put it to the test.��

This includes a number of online-only brands which have proved popular. We keep an eye on what’s in stores, we survey manufacturers to find out about their range of models, and we also check whether members have requested to have specific models tested.

Once a list is put together it goes to our buyers, who go out and use your member funds to buy the strollers and prams from a variety of retailers. We buy products just like you would, so we can be sure they’re the same as any consumer would find them and not ‘tweaked’ in any way for better performance.

How we test prams and strollers

Safety is a vital part of our testing and our testers check various aspects of safety based on the Australian Standard AS/NZS 2088:2013, including that:

• harness straps are adjustable and of adequate length (so that the harness fits correctly and is free from strangulation risks and other hazards)
• the child is securely restrained; there are no gaps they can slip through and the buckle is not too easy to undo
• the folding mechanisms are safe and secure
• there are no sharp edges or possible entrapment points for fingers or limbs (either for the child in the pram, or an adult folding/unfolding the pram)
• the pram has good stability and the brakes work well.

Durability tests

Rolling rig test

New brands of strollers that come into our labs are tested on our very own ‘rolling road’. Each pram is placed on this rolling road rig for 64 hours at a speed of 5km/h, as per the Australian standard. We rarely see prams fail this test so now we only conduct it on brands we haven’t tested before. Three-wheel strollers that look like they might be used for jogging are tested for a further 10 hours at 10km/h to see how they stand up to faster speeds.

Kerb mounting test

We also have a machine that continuously simulates the action of mounting a kerb, which each stroller is subjected to. These tests show whether anything breaks, falls off or stops working properly after regular use. We conduct this test on all models we review.

Ease of use

To assess ease of use, our testers check and rate:

• ease of using the adjustments, such as the reclining functions and the safety harness
• how easy it is to load and unload the basket
• how easy it is to use the brakes and lock the front wheels
• how easy it is to fold and unfold the prams
• how easy it is to push them over rough terrain, up and down stairs, and through doorways
• how easily they fit into the boot of a family car.

Test criteria explained

We rate children’s products a bit differently to other product tests. Since children’s products require a strong emphasis on safety and we test according to Australian or international safety standards, we rate them according to whether they pass or fail the standard.��

Models marked with a blue ‘recommended’ label in our pram and stroller reviews pass all key safety tests.��Our experts regularly review how we score any failures, but generally anything that could be a limb or head entrapment hazard, strangulation hazard or fall risk, will be a serious failure.

Performance score

Prams or strollers that are recommended have passed all our safety and durability tests. They may have some very minor failures – areas or elements that don’t meet the Australian Standard but are not significant enough failures to affect the recommendation (for example, not meeting information labelling requirements).

• No failures: 100%
• Very minor failures: 80%
• One minor failure and no serious failures: 65%
• Multiple minor failures but no serious failures: 60%
• One serious failure: 40%
• More than one serious failure: 20%

Models worth considering

Prams and strollers that are worth considering pass all the key safety and durability tests, but may have some minor safety failures such as finger entrapment hazards. Their performance score will fall in the 60–65% range.

Not recommended

Prams and strollers that are not recommended have at least one serious safety hazard and will have a performance score of 40% or less. Serious safety failures can include detachable small parts, snagging/strangulation hazards, or limb or head entrapment hazards. Some hazards might only arise from incorrect use.

Safety and durability tests

Strollers and prams can only pass or fail these tests.

Ease of use score

This test score is made up of:

• various adjustments (safety harness, seat recline and more) (25%)
• loading and unloading the basket, using the swivel wheel lock, applying and releasing the brakes (25%)
• manoeuvring through doors, up and down stairs, turning a tight corner, going over rough terrain (25%)
• unfolding, folding and carrying, including fitting into a car boot (25%).

Our test lab

We maintain a lab that is up to date with the latest reference machines and calibrated measurement tools for our testers to bring you the right results.

Convertible tricycle strollers (that start off as a stroller and progress to a trike) must also adhere to safety standards. We test and rate these slightly differently to ‘dedicated’ prams, basing our performance scores on whether the tricycle stroller meets mandatory safety and design requirements (AS/NZS 2088:2000 CPN 8 of 2007).

The post How we test prams and strollers appeared first on ����Vlog.

On this page:

• Our expert testers
• How we choose what we test
• How we test portable cots
• Test criteria explained
• Our test lab

While there is a mandatory safety standard for all portable cots sold in Australia, we still find models that fail its requirements. Many fail the further tests set out in the more recent voluntary standard, too. That’s why we put them to the test in our lab.

Our expert testers

At ����Vlog we maintain a highly professional NATA-accredited laboratory and the vast majority of our product testing is done in-house. We’re accredited to test to the Australian standard for portable cots, AS/NZS 2195:2010, so our lab experts really do know whether a portable cot is safe or not.

How we choose what we test

With so many to choose from, what makes us choose one portable cot to test over another? As with most of our product testing, our aim is to test the most popular brands and types on the market and what you’re most likely to see in the retailers.

We survey manufacturers to find out about their range of products, we check market sales information and we also check for any member requests to test specific models. From this information we put together a final list that goes to our buyers.��

They then get onto retailers – online, by phone or the old-fashioned way of actually going into stores – and purchase each product, just as a regular consumer would. We do this so we can be sure the products we get are the same as any consumer would find them and not ‘tweaked’ in any way for better performance.

How we test portable cots

Our in-house lab is accredited to test portable cots against the most current Australian standard for portable cots, AS/NZS 2195:2010, and also against the mandatory standard (which is based on a 1999 version of the standard). The 2010 version has some differences to previous versions of the standard, and our results are based on this version.

Our experts test the cots (and any supplied accessories, such as change tables, bassinet modes and toys) for their safety performance, including checking for:

• small objects (which could become loose and pose a choking hazard)
• sharp corners, edges and points
• entrapment hazards between any moving components
• head, limb and finger entrapments��in openings
• strangulation hazards from straps or other components.

In addition to this, we assess each portable cot for:

• sufficient depth – a strict condition to prevent a child falling from the cot
• stability – the cot mustn’t tip or tilt too easily
• mattress firmness – the mattress must be firm and level enough to provide a safe sleeping surface (as per the Australian test method for mattresses AS/NZS 8811.1)
• horizontal and vertical strength – the cot’s frame needs to be sufficiently sturdy
• castors or wheels – these must have brakes and not roll too easily (so that the cot can’t be pushed out of place unintentionally)
• breathable zones (i.e. mesh rather than solid material or non-breathable fabric) on all four sides and at sleeping level – this is to prevent suffocation if an infant happens to roll to the side. Some small or narrow strips of non-breathable areas are OK, such as at the corners.

In addition to our performance and safety testing, we also score the portable cots for their ease of use, including:

• unpacking and setting up the cot (as well as any supplied accessories)
• folding it and packing it away (into the carry bag, where provided)
• the quality of the supplied instructions.

Test criteria explained

The ����Vlog Expert Rating, our overall score that determines which portable cots we recommend,��is made up of the scores for:

• performance (70%)
• ease of use (30%).

Performance and ease of use scores are based on the factors listed above. For performance, we score as follows:

• 100% – no failures
• 80% – only very minor failures
• 60–65% – at least one minor failure
• 40% or less – at least one serious safety failure.

We only recommend models with a ����Vlog Expert Rating of at least 70%. These models pass all our safety tests, but may have some very minor failures such as with information labels.

For some tests no models score high enough to be recommended. In this case, look for the models that score at least 60%, as they’ve passed the key safety tests and have only minor safety failures.��

Our portable cots buying guide��explains more about how to choose the safest portable cot.

Our test lab

����Vlog has high quality NATA-accredited laboratories with calibrated test equipment and lab staff who are skilled and accredited in a wide range of product testing.

The post How we test portable cots appeared first on ����Vlog.

On this page:

• What to look for in a portable cot
• What are small travel cots?
• How much do portable cots cost?
• If a portable cot says it meets Australian standards, is it safe?
• What's the difference between a portacot and a regular cot?
• Can you use a portacot all the time?

What to look for in a portable cot

Portable cots��that carry a risk of suffocating or trapping the head of the child are considered especially dangerous and should be avoided.��Others carry a risk of injury but not death, such as limb entrapment, and could be considered if you’re planning on buying a portable cot.��

Look for portacot models that score 60% or over, as these carry only minor safety risks that don’t endanger the life of the child.��

It’s important to read each safety failure carefully, as some risks can be avoided or minimised when proper precautions are taken. For example, some portable cots carry safety risks when used in bassinet mode, but in cot mode they’re safe.��

You can find a full description of the risks of each portable cot in the ‘Bad points’ section of our portable cot reviews.

Here are some general things to look out for when buying a portable cot.

Good ventilation

Each side should be mostly made from a breathable mesh material that extends all the way to the floor of the cot.

Weight limit

Don’t use a portable cot if your child weighs more than 15kg.

Well designed

Inside surfaces should be free of bumps, ledges and protruding parts so children can’t hit their heads, get their clothing snagged or use them as a foothold to climb out of the cot.

No gaps

The mattress should be firm enough and fit snugly without gaps on any side and should not be easily moved or lifted out of place by the child.

Sturdy

The rails should have two locking mechanisms to prevent accidental collapse and closure. The cot floor shouldn’t sag. Press down on the base to check this.��If you’re using a portable cot that doesn’t have a sturdy, rigid base, make sure you always use it on a flat floor and not an uneven surface that could distort the mattress shape.

Safety requirements

Check that the portable cot you buy is certified to the Australian/New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 2195 – either the 1999 or, preferably, the 2010 version.

Easy to put up and take down

The easier it is to put up and down, the better. You don’t want to be struggling when you’re sleep-deprived and have a tired, crying baby on your hands.��There are an increasing number of lighter cots that take less time to pack and unpack, but they tend to be on the pricier side.

Not too heavy

Despite ‘porta’ being in the name, many portacots are still quite heavy, with some clocking in at over 14kg. Make sure you’re able to lift and carry it comfortably.

Compact

Check what size the portacot is when it’s packed down. You’ll want to store it away until your next adventure, so choose one that’ll fit the bill (or, more to the point, your cupboard).

What are small travel cots?

Small travel cots are very lightweight, easy to fold and compact for transport.��

Some are similar in style to most other portable cots but are lighter and more compact (they should weigh no more than 6kg). Others are small folding shelters with a mattress.

They can be very handy when you’re travelling, going camping or on a picnic, but aren’t recommended for use all the time.

When we’ve tested small travel cots in the past, we didn’t find any we could fully recommend as each failed at least one important test of the standard.

How much do portable cots cost?

The portacots in our most recent test range in price from $59 up to $599. Our lab testing has found that a higher price tag isn’t always an indicator of better performance, so it pays to do your research – especially when safety is a key factor. That being said, we don’t currently recommend any portable cots that cost under $100.

When testing portable cots, we check to see whether models pass the most important safety tests of the voluntary Australian Standard, AS/NZS 2195:2010, which goes above mandatory requirements. Tests include having breathable mesh on all sides, and no suffocation or strangulation hazards.��

To find out which specific oven portable cots we recommend based on our test results, and to make sure you buy the best, click on the ‘Recommended’ box in the filters section of our portable cot reviews.

Some portacots that pass key tests still have some minor failures and therefore don’t earn a recommended label, but are still worth considering.

If a portable cot says it meets Australian standards, is it safe?

Portable cots sold in Australia must meet a mandatory standard based on sections of the Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS 2195:1999.��

The standard includes requirements for ensuring the folding mechanism is secure, that there are no gaps that could trap a child’s head, that the mattress is safe and the cot has adequate safety warnings.��

In our accredited labs, our experts still commonly find cots that fail some of the mandatory safety criteria. A more recent 2010 version of the standard includes an important test that looks for adequate breathable zones (in case your baby manages to roll face-first against the edge).��

The older standard doesn’t include this crucial consideration. We test against the safer 2010 standard, and this mainly involves checking that every wall of the cot is made from a mesh material that allows for air flow. We also use an accepted test for mattress firmness.

����Vlog would like to see portable cots comply with the full voluntary 2010 standard, which makes reference to breathability of materials. If your portable cot is not certified to the 2010 standard, it may not be made of breathable materials and could carry a risk of suffocation.

What’s the difference between a portacot and a regular cot?

Portable cots are specifically designed to be used for a baby when a regular cot isn’t available. They’re made of four fabric or mesh sides, with a removable mattress, and fold up for transportation.

Can you use a portacot all the time?

No. While a portable cot is handy when you’re travelling or away from home, a��standard cot��is a much better bet for every day.

• They’re more durable than portable cots and can accommodate larger babies, so you’ll get more use out of them.
• An average two-year-old will be slightly larger than the recommended size for most portable cots, whereas a regular cot (especially one with a bed-conversion kit) can be used until your child is three or four years old.
• Standard cots are higher off the ground than a portable cot, so you don’t have to bend so far to pick up your baby. After lugging a heavy baby in and out of a low-lying portacot your back will thank you when you return to your standard cot!

The post What to look for in a portable cot appeared first on ����Vlog.

On this page:

• Types of prams and strollers
• Three-wheeler strollers vs four-wheeler strollers
• Which type of stroller is safest?
• Features to look for
• Which stroller is right for you?
• How much do strollers cost?
• Tricycles: a stroller substitute?
• Are second-hand strollers safe?

In a nutshell, the best stroller will be one that:

• has a seat that fits your child comfortably and safely
• is the right height and weight for you to push and lift
• has all the right safety features.

Types of prams and strollers

The terms ‘pram’ and ‘stroller’ tend to be used fairly loosely and can be used for the same product. ‘Stroller’ often refers to a model with an upright seat, while ‘pram’ refers to one with a bassinet or flat sleeping surface, but these days most models allow both positions. Here are some other terms you might come across.

• Layback stroller: The baby can sit up, or lay down for a sleep – good for newborns.
• Jogger stroller: Three-wheeled strollers are sometimes referred to as jogger strollers or have ‘jogger’ in their name, but not all are actually suitable for jogging and running. If you want to regularly jog with your stroller, consider getting a genuine jogging stroller specifically designed for that purpose. These usually have large, fixed wheels that roll easily for fast movement.
• Double stroller: For multiple bubs (see our double stroller reviews��and buying guide).
• Convertible bike stroller: A combination of bike (actually tricycle) and stroller.
• Umbrella stroller: A lightweight travel stroller. It may have minimal storage space but is easier to fold and take with you on public transport or at the airport.

Three-wheeler strollers vs four-wheeler strollers

Three-wheelers

• Often wider, longer and heavier than four-wheelers.
• Usually easier to push around due to larger wheels (which are often on bearings so they pivot easily) and inflatable tyres that help absorb the bumps.
• Easier to manoeuvre, but also more likely to roll away if left unattended.
• Can be more prone to tipping sideways, particularly when turning corners or mounting a kerb.

Four-wheelers

• Umbrella versions are more compact and fold into a smaller package, so they can be a better option for public transport.
• Some have two small wheels at the front and two large wheels at the rear, which provide the stability of a four-wheeler with the manoeuvrability of a three-wheeler.

Which type of stroller is safest?

In principle there shouldn’t be a safety difference between three-wheelers and four-wheelers. But some years ago, ����Vlog polled parents to identify any safety problems they’d encountered with their three or four-wheel prams or strollers, and found four-wheelers came out on top. More three-wheeler owners reported problems with their strollers such as tipping dangerously or toppling over with a child inside, or rolling away unexpectedly.

It’s now mandatory for strollers to have a wrist strap, so as long as you use that, the stroller shouldn’t ever get away from you. But tipping over can still be a problem. Our tests show some models of both types can be prone to tipping backward – three-wheelers may be more likely to tip sideways than four-wheelers, especially when turning or going over kerbs.

Pram safety checklist

1. Look for certification to Safety Standard AS/NZS 2088, preferably the 2013 and 2022 versions which are the latest and safest versions designed to eliminate the formation of a loop between the shoulder and waist straps which can be a strangulation hazard.
2. Check for sharp or protruding parts or ones that could pose a choking risk, and gaps that could trap fingers or limbs.
3. Is there a child-resistant mechanism for locking and unlocking the frame?
4. Is the stroller stable enough not to tip easily?

Features to look for

Newborn-suitable

Many prams are suitable from birth and can be used until the child weighs around 15–20kg (depending on the stroller). Some come with bassinet attachments which are then swapped out for seats as your baby grows, while others have a reclining seat that can lay flat to safely carry your newborn and then be adjusted over time. (Strollers that are unsuitable for newborns will not lie flat – generally these are suitable from six months.)

Wheels

Swivelling front wheels are easier to manoeuvre, but it’s useful if they can be locked for travelling at higher speeds or over rough terrain. Large wheels tend to be better on kerbs and stairs, while inflatable wheels can puncture but generally give a comfier ride. Before purchasing, give the wheels a tug to see that they don’t come off.

Size

Try folding and unfolding the stroller in the shop to see if you can carry it comfortably when it’s folded. Measure the stroller to make sure it fits into your car boot without needing to remove the wheels. If you have a newborn, make sure the pram you buy is suitable for them size-wise – not all are.

Brakes

Get an idea of how well the brake locks work by applying the brakes while you try to push the handle. It’s handy if rear brakes are linked, so the left and right brakes can be locked with a single action. Some prams also have front brakes – particularly handy on a reversible pram or stroller, as it means you can always lock the brakes nearest you (at the back) whichever way it’s facing. Locks you can activate and release with your feet prevent you from bending, but make sure your feet fit under them easily.

Straps

Give them a tug to check they’re secure and the seat doesn’t come away from the frame.

Five-point harness

Two shoulder straps (preferably attached to the backrest at shoulder level – padded ones are softer), a waist strap and a crotch strap, with adjustable length as your baby grows. The straps should be easy to adjust and the buckles easy to use (for you, but not your child).

Reversible handle

It’s good to have the option of choosing which way your baby faces in the pram – although the brakes may only be on one set of wheels, making it harder to put them on if you’re at the wrong end. Check in the store how easy it is to reverse the handle.

Adjustable backrest

Some strollers have an upright backrest that can also move to at least one semi-reclined position, while some can be fully reclined (best for sleeping). A three-position adjustment makes the stroller more versatile.

Footrest

A footrest reduces the chance of injury from your child’s feet touching the ground or getting caught in the front wheel.

Front bar

A detachable bar your child can hold onto. They’re usually not secure, so it’s not safe to use them to lift the stroller.

Travel systems

Some strollers or prams are compatible with car seat capsules: simply clip them into the stroller frame using the correct adaptors so you don’t have to wake bub up when shifting between pram, car and back. Not all are suitable for newborns, so check before you buy. It’s also not advisable to leave a baby asleep for long in a car seat, as they aren’t designed for this purpose.

Folding mechanism

A stroller needs to be simple for the carer to fold and unfold with mechanisms that are inaccessible to a baby. At the same time, the unlock mechanism used to fold it can’t be too easy to operate. You don’t want it to collapse with your baby still inside or potentially crush fingers.

Self-folding

We’ve only ever seen one such stroller – the��4Moms Origami stroller (which is no longer available for sale). It folded and unfolded at the push of a button. When we tested it, we found it could potentially be operated by a child standing near the stroller and could be a crushing hazard for a child still in the seat (as reported by some parents in online reviews) or for an adult or child who gets their hand in the way of the folding stroller.

Stroller/pram bags

If you travel a lot or are low on space and want to pack your stroller or pram away, some enterprising companies have invented stroller travel bags. They do a good job of keeping the pram neat and tidy, but they can be cumbersome and more trouble than they’re worth.

Other features to look for

• Canopy.
• Rain cover for wet weather.
• Storage, which is handy for carrying things like nappies, baby food, clothes and your handbag. Check the size and weight limit, as well as how accessible it is.
• Adjustable height handles are useful for particularly short or tall people.

Which stroller is right for you?

There’s probably no perfect stroller, so you need to consider what you’re most likely to be doing, and which would work best in your situation. Where are you going to be using it most? What are the footpaths around your area like?

• For shopping, you need a stroller or pram that’s not too wide or bulky (or it won’t get around small aisles), and a decent size basket is handy.
• If you’re going to do a lot of jogging or walking, inflatable tyres make for a more comfortable ride.
• If you’ll be catching public transport, something light and easily foldable is important.
• If you’re going to walk in the park or over uneven surfaces, big wheels make the ride over rough ground easier and more comfortable.

How much do strollers cost?

The price of a pram or stroller can vary widely, and different attachments such as a newborn bassinet or additional car seat can also add to the cost. The models in our most recent prams and strollers test range in price from $65 through to $2799, while the models in our double strollers test cost between $199 and $2798.��

����Vlog tip:��Our test results show that even some models over $1000 can��fail our safety tests, so it pays to do your research.

Tricycles: a stroller substitute?

‘Convertible’ tricycles can be used by a carer to transport a baby before converting to a regular tricycle. As of February 2019 these types do fall under the mandatory standard if designed for children younger than 24 months. They must have appropriate warning labels, a wrist (tether) strap and back brakes, for instance. The new 2022 version of Safety Standard AS/NZS 2088 also includes convertible tricycles in its definition.

With extended handles, high backrests, sunshades and harnesses, some tricycles look similar to strollers. But we don’t recommend you use one as a replacement. Tricycles are not as easy to manoeuvre as most prams and strollers and generally aren’t designed with the same standard of durability in mind.

Are second-hand strollers safe?

A durable stroller can last many years (and several children) and with the rising cost of living, it makes sense to consider buying or accepting a used, second-hand stroller.

However, even if a stroller has been used without incident, injury could still occur. Always check to make sure the stroller:

• comes with full instructions
• has working parts (such as brakes and wheels) and can be unfolded and folded properly
• has not been in an accident
• has warning/safety labels and features intact
• complies with mandatory Australian safety standards.

Any business selling you a stroller must ensure it complies with mandatory safety standards, but the rule doesn’t address strollers sold by individuals (such as through online marketplaces) or ones you give or receive as gifts from family or friends. Avoid using any products that don’t comply.

The post How to buy the right pram or stroller for your baby appeared first on ����Vlog.

But which model is best for you, and do you have to spend hundreds to get a good one?

We give expert advice on how to buy your everyday pram in our pram and stroller review, but here are some tips to help you buy the best lightweight travel stroller for your holiday.

1. Weigh it up: The lighter, the better

It’s a no brainer, but when you’re juggling luggage, a baby and all your other travel paraphernalia, hopping on and off trains or buses, you’ll want a stroller that’s light and easy to carry.��

The lightest travel strollers from our tests are:

• GB Gold Pockit Air All Terrain: 4.9kg ($379)
• Phil & Teds Go V2: 5.9kg ($480)
• Mountain Buggy Nano 3.0: 6.3kg ($599)
• Babyzen Yoyo2*: 6.5kg ($720)
• Baby Jogger City Tour 2: 6.8kg ($599)
• Childcare Jax V2: 7kg ($199)

*The Babyzen Yoyo2 is popular both for travel and everyday use due to its light weight (just 6.5kg). However, it failed our safety tests and poses a potential head entrapment and fall risk. Plus, when it’s fully loaded, the wheels move when the parking brake is on. (Babyzen disagrees with our results but ����Vlog stands by its findings.)

But check the cost

Compact models (such as the��Phil & Teds Go V2) are often cheaper than standard prams, but some certainly don’t come in cheap when you consider that a travel stroller is often a secondary buy on top of an everyday pram.��

The Babyzen Yoyo 2, which weighs 6.5kg, costs an eye-watering $720 – but it scores a poor 35% overall.��

2. Check restrictions with your airline

Most strollers have to be checked in with flight attendants at the gate, but if you have a compact folding stroller, you can take it all the way to your seat (which also means you won’t have to wait for it when you get off).��

You should always double check any restrictions with your airline though – some Australian domestic airlines state that carry-on sized prams count towards your carry-on luggage allowance, which won’t give you a great deal leftover for your other cabin bags.��

Most airlines specify that if you’re taking a travel stroller in the cabin it needs to be in a bag, and it will need to meet carry-on baggage weight and dimension criteria.��

When choosing a travel stroller, take a look at the dimensions for how small it folds up, and if it comes with accessories like a carry bag or handy strap that’s a big plus as it’ll be easier to lug around.��

Some strollers (such as the Baby Jogger and Edwards & Co) come with a bag, but for others (such as the GB Gold Pockit) you’ll need to pay extra for a travel bag.

3. Be sun smart

It’s all well and good to buy a travel stroller that folds up into a tiny bundle, but with some models, this usually means you sacrifice things such as a generous canopy shade. Not great news if you’re going to be out and about in the sunshine a lot on your trip.��

Regardless of the brand, bear in mind that you won’t often get the same coverage as you do with a bigger, standard pram so plan ahead to make sure your little one is protected from the sun.��

4. Check if the stroller reclines

This is a biggie if on-the-go naps are an issue for your child. Compact strollers are not always suitable for newborns and can have limited recline options, which can be tricky if your bub likes to lie back when they have a nap.��

The ultra-compact foldable models usually have a hammock-like seat, such as the Childcare Jax V2, and some are more conducive to comfy snoozing than others.

5. Put safety first

Look for a five-point seatbelt harness that will keep your bub safe and secure, and check our��pram and stroller reviews to ensure your model passes key safety tests.��

“When it comes to travel, many people opt for a cheap $20 stroller,” says Kim Gilmour, one of ����Vlog’s resident pram experts.

“But past tests suggest they don’t always meet our key safety requirements, have little storage or features, and may not be suitable for newborns if they don’t recline. Paying a bit more can still get you a safe stroller that’ll see your child from birth to toddlerhood.”��

The latest ����Vlog-tested compact strollers

GB Gold Pockit Air All Terrain $379 (suitable from 6 months to 17kg)

Phil & Teds Go V2 $480 (suitable from newborn to 15kg)

Mountain Buggy Nano 3.0 $599 (suitable from newborn to 20kg)

Babyzen Yoyo2 $720 (suitable from 6 months to 22kg)

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 $599 (suitable from newborn to 20.5kg)

Childcare Jax V2 $199 (suitable from newborn to 17kg)

Edwards & Co Otto $449 (suitable from newborn to 20kg)

Childcare Vogue Lite $599 (suitable from newborn to 20kg)

Bugaboo Butterfly $799 (suitable from 6 months to 22kg)

The post 5 tips for buying a compact travel stroller appeared first on ����Vlog.

It can be an expensive purchase, so it’s one you’ll want to get right. Here, we share some advice from seasoned ����Vlog parents to help you avoid making the same mistakes we made as wide-eyed first-time parents.

A tale of two Bugaboos

Alice, mum of a lively little girl, tells of her short-lived love affair with her Bugaboo.

Alice’s story

When I was pregnant, buying a pram seemed like *the* moment that made it all real. I only really seriously looked at buying a Bugaboo, because it was The Brand You Had to Have.��

I briefly flirted with an elegant Joolz, a quirky Stokke and a sensible Mountain Buggy, but in my heart of hearts I knew the Bugaboo was The One.��

When it was first set up, I marvelled at its seeming sturdiness and designer-ness. I loved its solid wheels, its nifty design and the logo that proudly declared to the world that we were a Family of Taste. I was in love, and couldn’t wait to show my new beau off to the world.

But once the baby arrived (and swiftly turned my life upside down), the cracks started to appear. The Bugaboo wasn’t quite as perfect as I’d first thought. It was huge, difficult to fold up, heavy (not ideal for c-section recovery) and it actually felt much less substantial than I’d imagined a $1500 pram would feel. I hated taking it to the shops because it was like driving a tractor and I was always bumping into door frames and cafe tables because of its sheer size.��

In the end, the clincher was that I couldn’t walk my dogs with it. I have two lovely but exuberant Border Collies, and it was just impossible to keep them in check while steering a heavy pram with one hand. The love affair was over. We were incompatible.��

I quickly took up with a Manduca baby carrier and my Bugaboo was left lonely in the back of the car, gathering dust. I’d occasionally take it out for trips on the train but the spark just wasn’t there any more.��

Finally, it was over: just before my child turned four, I sold the pram and scarcely thought about it again. Occasionally I look back at it with fondness (on those days when my kiddo wants to be carried everywhere), but for the most part, breaking up with my Bugaboo was the best decision I ever made. My only regret now is that I didn’t buy a secondhand pram to begin with and save myself all that money and heartache.��

Kate’s story

Kate, a mum of two, had almost the opposite experience.

“I bought a Bugaboo and used it all the time, and totally regretted buying baby carriers as I hated babywearing!” she says.��

After her daughter was born, she developed vestibular neuritis [acute vertigo and dizziness] and couldn’t drive for three months. “My Bugaboo Cameleon saved me! The only remedy suggested by my doctor was walking, so I went out every day with my Bugaboo and my baby and it was like a walking frame – it kept me stable and helped me recover.”

Kate found her Bugaboo was handy when wrangling two small children.

“It was pretty sturdy with the skateboard/seat attachment, which came in handy because my eldest child’s daycare was walking distance from our house. It made dropoff and pickup easier – sometimes the baby would sleep through the whole thing,” she says.

The moral of the story

Here’s the thing: you can’t possibly know what your experience of parenthood is going to be until you’re in the thick of it. You won’t know if you’re going to end up with a velcro baby who wants to be close to you every second of the day (in which case babywearing will save your sanity and free up your hands), or a more independent spirit who likes their own personal space.��

You could even end up with a non-sleeping terror who only naps in the pram and has to be pushed around the neighbourhood for hours on end.��

In some ways you’d be better off waiting a couple of months to buy a pram once you know what your needs are. But we know how exciting a purchase it is and we wouldn’t want to deny you the milestone of bringing home the pram for the first time. Plus, you’ll probably need at least something to put the baby in to get out of the house once you come home from hospital.��

We can’t tell you what your experience will be, so instead we asked the seasoned parents of ����Vlog to share what they wish they’d known before they bought their first pram.

Top tip: make sure it fits with your lifestyle

“My top tip would be to consider your lifestyle and where you live. If you are mainly using it for walking and running errands by foot and you live in a suburban area, a pram with decent-sized wheels that can handle bumpy footpaths and grass is worth it. This type of pram is usually bulkier and can’t be folded one-handed but has big baskets for storing stuff,” says Kate.

“If you’ll mainly be jumping in the car and using it on flat surfaces, a compact, easy-fold stroller is better. (They usually have small wheels and are not great on bumpy footpaths or grassy, muddy paths.) I ended up buying a small Maclaren stroller once she was six months old for travelling and going in the car.”

“Don’t buy something that’s too wide so you can still navigate cafes and small stores and not be a pariah,” says Ren.

The grandparent test

Julia has a good rule of thumb for buying a new pram: “If the grandparents can use it easily, it’s a good sign.”

(I can attest to this: my mother had to ask some friendly passersby how to collapse the Bugaboo when she was out with my kiddo. She just couldn’t figure it out and, to her credit, it really was not at all intuitive to use.)

To capsule or not to capsule

“The most valuable tip I got when buying a stroller was the saleperson who advised me against buying a stroller with the capsule that you take out,” says Pru.

“She had a fake baby in the store (that weighed the same as a real baby) and she put it in the capsule and got me to carry it around the store. I’m only small, but I could barely carry it.

“She also made the point that people buy those detachable capsules as they think they can just take their baby inside from the car and leave them asleep, but due to safety issues you shouldn’t leave them sleeping in a capsule or car seat.”

A weighty issue

“The larger models are MUCH heavier than you think and you need to be able to lift it easily into the back of your car,” says Pru.��

“Bear in mind you also might be doing this while recovering from surgery or injury associated with birth.”

����Vlog dad Tom thought he was doing the right thing by buying a pram based solely on reviews, but didn’t consider how heavy it was.

“We bought a ����Vlog safety approved pram – and it weighs a tonne! Not a great thing for a new mum to deal with. Luckily we’re on the ground floor so it could be left assembled,” says Tom.��

����Vlog tip: check the weight of the pram or stroller before you buy. They can range in weight from 4 to 16kg. You can filter our pram reviews by weight if you’re looking for a lighter pram.����

“Think about where you are going to store the stroller. We lived in an apartment with quite a narrow entrance hallway and there was nowhere else to park the stroller when it wasn’t in use, so we had to make sure it was narrow enough to fit,” says Pru.��

“Be careful about buying a bulky stroller if you are going to take it on buses and trains etc.”

Have pram, will travel

“Buy a cheap umbrella pram as a second pram to check into baggage on flights (so they won’t wreck your good one), and for any places you need to leave it outside (so the good one doesn’t disappear),” says Ren.��

“Use a second easily-opening pram for holidays – we were given a friend’s stroller which we used for travel/flights and there was less concern when it got scratched or knocked about,” says Danny.

“If you’re long-haul flying, consider whether your pram would pass as hand luggage. If it’s small enough, it’s great to have for your child to sleep up until boarding, and can help you transition across large airports quickly,” says Tom.

Thinking of travelling? Here are our top tips for buying a compact travel stroller.��

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