As parents, we love a cheeky shortcut when it comes to the wacky and wonderful world of raising kids. We all need a helping hand sometimes, right?
If you're still carting the kids around, we have some awesome buggy hacks we think you might like. From protecting your tyres from punctures to hacking the handlebar when the foam starts to rip, we've got it covered So without further ado, here are some tips every parent needs to know:
Keep the mud out of your home
Rainy days means muddy wheels or, worst-case scenario, dog poop. Don't get caught out again by ruining the boot of your car or your freshly washed floors! Buy four shower caps from your local Euro store to keep in the buggy basket. Then cover the wheels after a muddy walk and protect your floors or fabric forever. I know right, it's genius.
Wear and tear
This is a very common issue with buggies, especially if you have it awhile. If you find the foam on the handlebar is wearing down or maybe even ripped a little. Try wrapping some grip tape on the worn-out handlebar to keep it neat and tidy. Alternatively, you could search online and see if you can get a replacement from the buggy manufacturer.
Safety first
If you enjoy an early evening stroll in the autumn or winter months, this one is for you. As the dark evenings creep in, your visibility is paramount for your safety. Place some reflective tape on your stroller to increase visibility in the dark and while you're at it, pick up a high visibility vest for yourself. It is vital you let other road users see you, particularly at night.
Puncture Protection
As an owner of a buggy with air-filled tyres, I can personally vouch for this one, especially if you are in anyway outdoorsy. Air-filled tyres are prone to punctures; it's a given. Invest in a slime tyre sealant. This nifty yoke is a specially formulated liquid that sits inside your inner tube, and when a puncture occurs, it instantly seals any hole using a Fibro-Seal technology.
Hold extra shopping
If you don't have a basket on your stroller, this one's for you. In a bid to keep travel systems small and petite, some new companies are leaving out what we can only call an essential part of a pram. If you've no storage or minimal space, invest in a buggy hook for as little as a fiver and clip it onto the pram handlebars to hold your baby bag or any shopping.
Keep toys and toddler cups in reach
I couldn't tell you how many times I have run backwards to pick up a lost toy, soother or beaker that one of my kids flung from the buggy in an almighty rage. Have kids they say, it will be grand they say. Use a child-friendly clip on a chain to harness your tot's favourite toy or drinking cup to the bumper bar of your buggy, and voila. No more lost toys or dropped dummies.
