Unfortunately, it is a fact of the British climate that it’ll rain! Babies and their pushchairs need protecting from the elements but not all raincovers are as good as another. So how do you choose the best – the best quality and the best value?

Many suppliers of pushchairs supply ‘own-brand’ covers for their pushchairs; many are of excellent quality but unfortunately some are not. Unfortunately, not all covers can withstand the wear and tear put on them, but where do retailers source replacements?

What should you be looking for in a raincover? First and foremost is the quality of the plastic. In recent years, it has been a requirement that all toys and childcare products should be free of certain phthalates – DEHP, DBP and BBP. Raincovers fall into this category and MUST be phthalate free.

Tearing is a particular problem with raincovers. This can be caused by a poor fit or poor seams but the thickness of the plastic is also important. Most common are plastics that fall within the range of 140 to 180 microns but thicknesses up to 240 microns are available.

Next look at the transparency of the plastic – some can be less than crystal clear; some can be creased and crumpled. All round visibility is also important.

Then there is the issue of ventilation. Plastic by its very nature doesn’t allow the free flow of air and kids need air! So there must be adequate ventilation built into the design.

Pushchairs are an expensive purchase for parents – don’t let them spoil it with a cheap raincover!

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