Lightweight baby prams have become super popular with parents who want something easy to carry around without breaking their backs. These prams usually weigh between 11-15 pounds, which is way lighter than regular strollers that can weigh up to 25 pounds. But here’s the thing – because they’re made with thinner materials and lighter parts, they need extra care to last long. Studies show that well-maintained lightweight prams can last through multiple kids, saving families hundreds of dollars. The key is knowing how to take care of them properly so they don’t fall apart when you need them most.
Check the Wheels Weekly
Your pram’s wheels take a real beating every day. They roll over rocks, sand, leaves, and who knows what else. Most lightweight prams have small wheels made of foam or plastic, not the big air-filled ones you see on heavy-duty strollers.
Look at each wheel once a week. Spin them to see if they turn smoothly. If they feel stuck or wobbly, there might be hair or string wrapped around the axle. This happens more than you’d think, especially if you have pets or walk in areas with lots of debris.
Remove any wrapped-up stuff with scissors or tweezers. For wheels that still feel rough, put a tiny drop of machine oil on the axle. Don’t use cooking oil or WD-40 – these can attract dirt and make things worse.
Stick around and explore more articles that might catch your interest!
Clean the Frame Right
The frame is the backbone of your pram. Most lightweight frames are made from aluminum alloy because it’s strong but doesn’t weigh much. However, aluminum can get tiny scratches that turn into bigger problems if you ignore them.
Wipe down the frame with a damp cloth after every few uses. Pay extra attention to joints where different parts connect. Salt from sweat or ocean air can cause corrosion, especially in these connecting spots.
For stubborn dirt, mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage the protective coating on the metal. After cleaning, dry everything completely before folding the pram for storage.
Handle the Fabric Like a Pro
The fabric on lightweight prams is usually thinner than on heavy strollers. Baby Prams designed to be light, not super tough. This means it tears easier and shows stains faster.
Vacuum the fabric weekly to remove crumbs and dirt before they work their way deep into the material. Most pram fabrics can’t handle washing machine cycles, even gentle ones.
For spills, blot them immediately with a clean cloth. Don’t rub, because that pushes the liquid deeper. Mix cold water with mild detergent and dab the stain. Rinse with clean water and let it air dry completely.
Sun damage is real too. The UV rays break down fabric fibers and make colors fade. When possible, park your pram in shade or use a cover when storing outside.
Keep Moving Parts Moving
Lightweight prams have several moving parts that need attention. The folding mechanism, brakes, and handlebar adjustments all have small components that can jam up.
Test your brakes every time you use the pram. They should lock firmly and release easily. If they feel loose, tighten the brake mechanism with the tools that came with your pram. Most models include a small wrench or hex key.
The folding joints need the most care. These take stress every time you fold and unfold the pram. Keep them clean and put a small amount of silicone spray on the hinges monthly. Baby Prams prevents rust and keeps everything moving smoothly.
Never force a folding mechanism that seems stuck. Check for debris or bent parts first. Forcing it can break internal components that are expensive to replace.
Store Smart
How you store your pram makes a huge difference in how long it lasts. Lightweight prams weren’t built to sit outside in weather or stuffed in cramped spaces.
Always fold the pram when storing it. This takes pressure off the frame and wheels. Find a dry spot away from direct sunlight. Basements and garages work great if they’re not damp.
Before long-term storage, clean everything thoroughly and let it dry completely. Moisture trapped in fabric or metal joints can cause mold and rust. Consider using silica gel packets in the storage area to absorb extra moisture.
If you must store the pram outside, invest in a good cover. Cheap covers often trap moisture underneath, which is worse than no cover at all.
Want to learn more? Our other posts are just a click away!
