Dirt test on hard floors
Felt pads are essential for hard floors (e.g. wood, stone, tile etc.) when using the Pram Sled.
However, if you have a delicate hard floor, there is a chance you may still notice gradual wear from using it over time. To give some idea about this, we’ve done some tests to help you decide if it’s the right option for you.
The results below are after 6 months use (equivalent to 150 rubs) for the Pram Sled with felt pads….
Delicate floor
Wood effect panel (low scratch resistance)
Very dirty floor
rub
Pram Sled sample
with felt pad
Visible wear
Close up
Scratch resistant floor
Laminate (wood effect)
Pram Sled
with felt pads
rub
rub
Very dirty floor
No marks or scuffs
How this helps to make a decision
Whatever your hard floor type, keeping the floor clean, combined with using felt pads with the Pram Sled are essential for greatly reducing wear on hard floors.
If you have a scratch resistant floor, it’s likely it won’t scratch at all.
For more delicate hard floors, we can't guarantee it will stay completely unmarked. That said, the wear only occurs because the floor has dirt on it. So the good news is for clean home floors, the results will be better than our test.
Putting this into perspective, it’s worth bearing in mind that dirty pram wheels on their own may still scratch through general wear and tear. So compared to this, the Pram Sled may well improve the longevity of the floor overall. Although additionally, some delicate wood floors for instance will mark/scuff over time which is part of their appeal as it can add character.
If you still have any concerns, remember that keeping the Pram Sled (with felt pads) in one place (to avoid moving it all together) will still provide an excellent barrier for keeping the muddy wheels contained.
Hopefully this gives you some help to weigh-up the alternatives and decide if it's the right option for your hard floor.