Buying a Pram Newborn

Prams and pushchairs are multi-functional, multi-purpose companions of caregivers and parents. They're the co-pilots of the new adventure of your child.

A newborn pram is designed for newborns and babies. It has a deep, sturdy carrycot with soft and safe walls.

A pram is typically equipped with a bassinet, but it can be converted to an infant stroller compact seat once baby is ready.

Safety

The newborns of today are extremely fragile and need to be kept as safe as you can. A pram or stroller equipped with safety features will ensure that your baby is in a safe and comfortable environment during travel. The basic requirements for any pram or stroller include a functioning brake, a 5-point safety harness (2 shoulder straps, two waist straps and the strap for the crotch) and an adjustable wrist tether strap for the person pushing the pram. Check that the pram you select is in compliance with these requirements.

Find a stroller that allows your baby to ride in the recommended lying-flat position. This position helps support the baby and helps prevent an unintentionally dangerous spinal curve that can cause spinal problems. By keeping the airways open, it reduces the risk for SUID (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or Asphyxiation). Most prams that can be used from birth will have a seat unit that will recline into a lie-flat pram position for younger babies and then transform into a pushchair unit for older children.

The suspension of the pram will determine how smoothly it runs. A pram with a lot of spring suspension will be more expensive, but it is worth the extra expense when you intend to use your pram bags every day for a couple of years or more.

Always read the instructions and carefully read the warning labels on your pram or stroller. You should also make sure that your stroller is placed in a secure location away from traffic, bicycles or any other potential hazards when it is not being used. You should also remove any bags or other items that are not removed from the handles as they could cause your baby to get caught or suffocate.

A stroller or pram should not be left alone with a child in it, even if they are asleep. They can wriggle and become stuck or the pram might slide away and the baby might be injured. Hanging bags, or other items on the handles isn't recommended because they could fall and hit your child in the head.

Comfort

Having the option of lie flat seating is an absolute must for newborns, because it helps improve back and lung development. Cocoons or carrycots are available on many prams. They create a cozy environment that is a comfortable place for your baby and can be removed easily from the frame. Certain seats, like the bucket-style seat on the egg2, can't be reclined completely flat, but offer the comfort of your child.

Some prams for newborns also have a separate bassinet, newborn inset or stroller seat, so you can easily switch between sitting and sleeping modes according to your baby's requirements. This is often described as a "travel system and is the first option you should test with your newborn.

Find a pram that has two shoulder straps (ideally padded) and a five-point safety harness that fits your child's body securely. Check that there are no gaps or loose places where fingers could get caught. Also, make sure that the buckles are easy for older children to use. It's also worth considering whether you'd prefer a parent facing pram or not. It's ideal for keeping an eye on your child, and also helps them feel secure by the familiar sight of their parents.

Our parent testers enjoyed the features of some prams such as the Graco Near2Me which allows you to raise your baby by pressing the button. This is a great method to keep eye contact with your baby, and stay in touch, especially when they're sleeping. If you're looking for an appropriate travel system, be sure the frame's compatibility with your car capsule, as this will save you having to wake them up when changing between car, pram and back.

Convenience

It is important to consider your baby's needs for transportation when you purchase a new baby's pram. Some prams have the option of a carrycot or bassinet which allow your baby to lie flat (essential for their spinal development and breathing) while others come with seats that can recline to a lie-flat position. It's also a good idea to take a look at the other accessories the pram with car seat has like an infant changing bag and a footmuff that are essential to keep your baby warm in the colder winter months.

Some prams and strollers can be converted to travel systems. You can connect a car pod to the frame with adaptors, meaning you can move your child from the car to the pram without disturbing them. These can be useful if you have a busy life or don't have a sufficient space for prams, however it's worth keeping in mind that your child must be old enough and able to sit up independently before you can change between the car capsule and pram.

Another feature you may want to consider is the possibility of raising and lowering your newborn's seat from a low setting to a high setting, which helps maintain eye contact with them and keeps them close to you. This is something our tester for parents found very useful for her 10-month old boy! One example is the Graco Near2Me that lets your child 'glide closer to you at the touch of a button.

You should be able to put shopping bags and changing bags in the basket beneath. You should also be able keep changing and shopping bags in the basket underneath (although remember that loading the pram with excessive weight can cause it to tip over). If you are unsure of which one to pick, check various models at the local store.