FAQs
What car capsules are compatible with iCandy prams?
Maxi Cosi Mico car capsules are compatible with all models. Car capsule Adaptors are included with your original pram purchase.
What travel bag can I use for my iCandy pram?
The iCandy Universal Travel Bag will fit all models in our range.
Will a toddler board fit my iCandy pram?
The iCandy 'Ride-On-Board' will fit all Peach models from 2018-2021. For previous Peach models there are many universal toddler boards available. We recommend taking your iCandy to your local Baby shop and trying their range. The Orange and Lime models have a built in RIDE-ON-BOARD.
How do I clean the fabrics on my pram?
We recommend gentle spot cleaning with a soft fabric cloth and mild detergent.
How long will a pram repair take?
A pram repair usually takes between 7-10 business days. Customer Service will advise you of the approximate time.
Pram Guide
There are lots of factors to consider when it comes to buying a pram and whilst this may seem like a daunting challenge at first, this practical and informative guide breaks down pram jargon to help you make the best decision for you and your baby.
Within this guide you will find the answers to the most common questions asked by parents, for instance, “can my baby sleep in a pram overnight?” and “when can my baby move from a carrycot to a seat unit?”
Whether you use the guide in its entirety or simply dip in and out, it will help you to determine the perfect pram for your lifestyle, budget and baby.
Pram Features
Alongside a changing mat and bottles, a pram is likely to become one of your most used baby products! It’s also the item that you’ll use for the longest so it’s important to consider the finer details that will make everyday life as easy and comfortable for parent and baby. In this section of the Pram Guide, we list important things to consider such as comfortable seat padding for baby and an adjustable handlebar for parents.
What to look for when buying a pram
Most ‘from birth’ prams offer two options when it comes to ‘facing directions’. These directions are referred to as ‘parent facing’, otherwise known as rear-facing and ‘world facing’, otherwise known as forward-facing.
Babies should be parent facing in a carrycot from birth until around 6 months or until they can sit up unaided, at which point they can progress into a seat unit. During their first 6 months its best for baby to be in parent facing mode so that there can be plenty of interaction between parent and baby during important developmental months. In the parent facing mode its quick and easy to check on the baby and they’ll be comforted and reassured by seeing familiar faces and hearing familiar voices. Parent facing also offers peace of mind for parents thanks to the option to monitor the baby.
As baby gets older their inquisitiveness will have developed and they’ll be interested in the world around them. At this stage, it may be time to swap to world-facing mode. It’s advisable to make this transition in stages so that your little one won’t feel too overwhelmed by their new view. With a pram that offers easy interchangeability between directions then perhaps try forward facing for an hour or so at a time, to begin with.
Ride-on board
A ride-on board is a great option for a family with a new baby and a toddler who is walking but still needs help when they’re tired. In most cases ride-on boards are purchased separately and can be clipped onto the chassis of the pram, providing a safe platform upon which a toddler can stand. Some boards come with a saddle, offering the option for the toddler to sit down too. In many cases, if the board is not in use it can be removed or clipped upright and moved out of the way. Before investing in a ride-on board it is worth testing the product as it will impact a parent’s walking space. An integrated ride-on board would offer the best solution as it avoids the hassle and expense of an additional attachment.
Adjustable handlebar
An adjustable handlebar is beneficial if you or your partner or anyone else who might be using the pram are different heights.
Brake pedals
The most common brake is a foot pedal brake pedal which is located on the rear axle of the pram. It could be on the left, right or in the middle of the axle. The brake works by pressing on a single pedal which locks both rear wheels. This brake option is great for parents who are on the go for a while and then perhaps stop to enjoy a coffee and therefore need their pram to be stationary.
Shopping basket
Shopping baskets can vary in size so it’s important to factor in your lifestyle and whether a particular pram shopping basket will be the right size for you. It’s also important to consider whether it is easy to access and whether everything is safe and secure in there. Pram shopping basket weight limits can vary so again it’s worth looking for one with a large capacity for stashing bags and baby bits.
Foldability
All prams are foldable but the way in which they fold varies from model to model and across different brands. Pram manufacturers have developed folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind, with some focusing on the needs of parents who travel whilst others focus on the speed or convenience of the fold. When it comes to foldability it’s important for a parent to consider their lifestyle - does the fold need to be compact or one-handed? It’s also important to consider the weight of the pram when folded and whether it will need to be carried upstairs on public transport when folded.
Pram convertibility
Convertible prams change between a single and a double and grow with your family with the addition of another carrycot or seat unit. Sometimes a converter kit must be purchased along with the additional seat unit/carrycot to transform the pram from a single to a double or everything can be purchased as a package.
The great thing about a convertible pram is that it can be used interchangeably between one or two children so it’s an economical option for first-time parents who plan to have a second child soon after baby number one.
Convertible prams are often easy to manoeuvre and navigate as they are generally in the tandem formation and maintain a single footprint rather than a wide side by side set up.
Offering a range of configurations, convertible prams are ideal for twins or siblings of different ages. It is worth noting that in most cases, the addition of a second seat unit or carrycot will impact the basket space of the pram so it’s advisable to compare this across different pram brands.
Versatile and durable tyres
Depending on your lifestyle, your pram may be pushed over a range of different surfaces, including grass, pavements and bumpy terrain. When purchasing your pram, it’s important to consider how it will be used. You may want to consider an all-terrain pram which is a bit like an SUV in that it is just as at home in urban environments as it is off-road. The highest performing pram tyres have a PU outer and EVA inner, which gives the ride of an air tyre without the risk of a puncture.
Pram Accessories
It’s easy to overlook pram accessories but they can often make day to day life with your new addition a lot easier! When choosing your pram, check to see which accessories are included and which may be additional purchases- some are optional but some are essential.
Carrycot
A carrycot is a light portable cot with a handle of some kind that can be attached to the chassis of a pram. When it comes to a travel system, it’s the first configuration that will be used with a newborn up to the age of around 6 months. If a pram doesn’t have a lie-flat seating option then a carrycot is essential as they allow newborns to lie completely flat which is essential for spinal and lung development. A carrycot will feature a hood which will offer protection from the elements when used outdoors, sometimes the canopy may feature extra ventilation too. Handles on a carrycot make it easy to take on and off a pram frame or to transport around the house if the carrycot is being used instead of a moses basket or crib.
Rain cover
A pram rain cover is essential for keeping the baby dry as well as the fabric of the pram. Most prams come with a tailored raincover to ensure an accurate fit. Car seat raincovers are also available.
Changing bag
Changing bags have come a long way in recent years and parents don’t have to sacrifice their sense of style when it comes to carrying around baby essentials. Changing bags are available in many different styles, including satchels, backpacks, or totes. It’s important that your baby’s changing bag suits your lifestyle; a tote bag can double up as a shopping bag or a backpack might be a better choice if you love the outdoors and want to be hands-free. Pram clips allow you to hang your changing bag or shopping bags from your pram. Most changing bags come with a detachable and washable changing mat, insulated bottle pockets and multiple pockets for ultimate organization. A luxury investment worthy changing bag will have longevity beyond nappies and bottles and could be considered as a future work bag.
Footmuff
A footmuff is an accessory for colder weather. Look out for a footmuff with a super soft lining and a showerproof exterior. Most brands include a footmuff as part of a pram bundle or sell matching footmuffs in their accessories range. To avoid purchasing multiple pram accessories, look out for a seat liner/footmuff combination so that in the summer months the footmuff can be removed and then reattached in the winter. Always ensure that the chosen footmuff is compatible with a 5-point safety harness.
Travel toys
Travel toys can be attached to the bumper bar or the hood of a pram and are great for long journeys. Whether it’s on a plane or in the car, bright, colourful and tactile toys will help with keeping baby entertained. Travel toys need to be portable so it’s important that they’re compact- spiral toys are a great option for wrapping around the bars and handles of prams, car seats and cots. A distinctive travel toy is also a great way of distinguishing your pram if it’s parked up at a play area or in a restaurant.
Pram blanket
A pram blanket usually measures 70cm x 90cm. Pram blankets are available in a wide range of styles and colours to suit individual tastes and pram designs.
Seat liner
A seat liner is not essential but adds extra comfort for children and protects the pram from crumbs and spills or potty training accidents! However, a waterproof mattress protector and fitted moses basket/pram sheets are sensible options for pram carrycots.
Pram Safety
You will typically rely on your pram every day so safety and durability are key factors to consider. This section of The Pram Guide will help you to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable in their pram.
Brakes
There are a variety of pram brake types and one may be more suited to a parent than another depending on their lifestyle. A foot brake is the most common and is an easy to use option that is perfect if your pram will mainly be used for general day to day activities such as trips to the park or shopping. Handle brakes are convenient if there is a need to regularly stop, such as in a city with lots of crossings. A hand brake will most likely rely on an internal cable, so there is more chance that this needs adjustment over time. Whatever type its important that brakes are effective and easy to apply so always check them regularly as you would in a car.
Safety harness
A baby in a pram needs a safety harness. These are required to be a five-point harness which should fit snuggly over baby’s shoulders, around the waist and through the legs. Some 5 point harnesses are designed so the waist and shoulder straps hook together prior to connecting to the crotch strap. This reduces the number of actions a parent is required to everytime the harness their child into the pram.
Weight limit
All prams have a seat unit weight limit. This is commonly around 15kg, however icandy offer a maximum weight of 25kg when not using elevators.
Locking
Primary and Secondary Locking Device
All prams have two locking devices to ensure the pram is secure whilst in use. Before putting your baby or child into their pram, always check the two locking devices are fully locked and secured. Locking devices vary from brand to brand and from pram to pram, however, all folding chassis prams require two motions to fold the pram. This prevents accidentally folding whilst it is in use.
Pram Cleaning
Just like any other vehicle, a pram requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly, whether that may be a basic wash or a more in-depth service. This section of The Pram Guide offers advice on the best ways to clean different pram components.
Cleaning a pram
It’s a good idea to give a pram a regular refresh, especially after spillages or snack time! Simply vacuum the fabric using a small attachment and wipe using warm soapy water and mild soap/detergent. If wipes are all you have at hand, double-check they don’t contain oil as this can stain the fabric.
Cleaning the pram fabric
Whether pram fabrics can be machine washed or not will vary according to the manufacturer so always check the washing instructions. If the fabric cannot go in a washing machine, spot clean with water and gentle soap.
Cleaning the wheels of a pram
If the pram wheels are removable this will make cleaning a lot easier and offers the most effective clean. Wet mud is best removed using a hose or pressure washer or if its dried mud try a stiff brush. Use a mixture of warm water and washing up liquid and scrub the wheels firmly. Once the wheels are dry check that the pram is still working effectively.
Cleaning the hood of a pram
If the hood is removable then this will make cleaning a lot easier. Start by vacuuming the fabric using a small attachment. Rinse or soak the hood fabric in cool soapy water and gently work on any stains or tricky areas using a soft fabric brush. Dry the fabric thoroughly outdoors.
Getting the mould out of fabric in a pram
If a pram has been in storage for a while it may have become damp and mouldy. To rectify this, brush off any loose mould and mildew with a soft brush- do this outdoors to prevent spreading the mould. Wash the fabric with a mild detergent and warm water and leave to dry in the sun. A gentle sterilising fluid such as Milton is also effective in the removal of mould and mildew.
Commonly Asked Questions
When can my baby go into a seat unit?
At around 6 months old, the baby will be ready to move into the seat unit. There are a number of indicators which highlight the baby is ready for the transition from a carrycot into a seat. Signs to look out for include, when your baby can sit up unaided, when they are able to control their head/neck movements and can fit comfortably within the seat unit safety harness.
When can my baby sit up in a seat?
If you plan to use a pram with a newborn, it must be able to recline to a lie-flat position. The pram must also offer adequate head and back support for young babies.
How do I fold my pram?
Pram folding methods vary from brand to brand and pram to pram. When purchasing a pram the fold is an important consideration to make in order to ensure that it fits into your lifestyle. For instance, do you need a one-handed fold? Do you regularly use public transport? Do you have limited storage for a pram at home? Or a small car boot? There are a variety of fold types including an umbrella or half fold. Most brands demonstrate different pram folds via online video content. Retailers also offer in-store pram demonstrations.
Can I take my pram on a plane?
Most major airlines offer 1-2 free additional baby items alongside the set baggage allowance, i.e. pram, travel cot, car seat or booster seat.
After checking in, generally, parents will be allowed to keep hold of their pram until boarding the plane when it will be taken to store in the hold for the journey. However, don’t take this for granted as some airlines will ask you to check in your pram with your luggage if it is over a certain size so always check their policy. Be prepared to hand over your pram early by taking along a baby carrier/sling to make things easier whilst in the departure lounge. It’s always worth investing in a travel bag to protect your pram against dirt and scratches as it is likely to be thrown around in the hold.
Many prams are now specially designed to fit into overhead plane lockers and can be carried onto the plane as a piece of hand luggage. However, as with larger items of hand luggage, there’s not necessarily a guarantee that the pram will be able to go onto the plane so always be prepared for it to be taken off you at the last minute! Also keep in mind you don't need your pram in the plane and you will want to use the locker space above your seat for your change bag etc. It is often more practical to hand over your pram when you board the plane and have it stowed in the luggage hold.
If you took your pram right up to the gate, you should check with airline staff if on arrival, you will receive it at the gate when you disembark or at the luggage carousel.
Can my baby sleep in a pram overnight?
A pram carrycot can double up as baby’s first bed if approved to do so by the manufacturer. This is a great money-saving option as it avoids the need to purchase a separate Moses basket or crib. It is important that the mattress is firm and clean so if you are using a second-hand carrycot it is advisable to replace the mattress. Use a waterproof mattress protector to protect the mattress from spills and stock up on plenty of fitted sheets.
When should I buy my pram?
There is no right or wrong time to buy your baby’s pram but you may want to purchase your pram in plenty of time so that you can assemble it and test it out before the baby arrives! If you are buying a travel system bundle then ensure you purchase this ahead of baby’s arrival as hospitals will only let the baby leave in a car seat. It is also important to be mindful of where you will store the pram ahead of your baby’s arrival.