Buying a Pram Newborn
Prams and pushchairs are the multi-functional, multi-purpose companions of caregivers and parents. They are the co-pilots on the new adventure of your child.
A newborn pram is a must for infants and newborns. It comes with a a deep, sturdy carrycot with soft and secure walls.
A pram typically comes with a bassinet, but it can be converted into a
foldable stroller seat once baby is ready.
Safety
Newborns are extremely fragile and should be kept as secure as possible. Buying a stroller or pram equipped with safety features will ensure that your baby is comfortable and safe during their travels. A stroller or pram must include a break that is working, a 5-point harness (2 shoulder straps and two waist straps and an e-crotch belt) and a wrist tether for the person pushing it. Check that your chosen pram meets these standards before purchasing.
Find a pram that allows your infant to ride in the recommended lie-flat position. This position is supportive for the baby and prevents an unintentionally dangerous spinal curve that could cause spinal issues. It reduces the chance of SUID (Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome) or asphyxiation by keeping airways open. Most prams that can be used from birth will have the seat unit, which will recline to a lay-flat pram mode for babies younger than the age of one and convert into a
pushchair pram seat unit for older children.
The suspension of the pram will determine how smooth it runs. A pram with a lot of spring suspension will cost more however it is worth the extra expense in the event that you plan to use your pram each day for a few years or longer.
Always read the directions and read the warning labels on your pram or stroller. You should also make sure that your stroller is placed in a safe spot away from bicycles, traffic or any other potential hazards when it isn't being used. It is also a good idea to take any bags or other items from the handles as they could cause your baby to become trapped or even die.
A stroller or pram should never be left unattended with a child in it, even if they are asleep. They can get wriggling and become stuck or the pram might slide away and the baby might be injured. It is also not a good idea to hang bags or other things off the handles as they may fall and hit your baby in the head.
Comfort
Having the option of lie flat seating is an absolute necessity for babies, since it aids in better lung and back development. Cocoons or carriers are found on many prams. They create a cozy environment that is comfortable 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 provide the comfort of your child.
Some prams also feature an extra bassinet, newborn stroller or inset seat so that you can easily switch between sitting and sleeping modes according to your baby's requirements. It is often called a "travel system" and is the first setup you should test out with your newborn.
Choose a stroller with two shoulder straps (ideally with padding) and a sturdy five-point safety harness that fits your baby's body securely. Be sure that there aren't any gaps or areas that are loose in which fingers can get caught and that the buckles are easy to use - especially for older children. It's also worth considering whether you'd prefer a parent facing pram (
Related Web Page) or not. It's ideal for keeping an eye on your child, and also helps them feel secure by the familiarity of their parents.
Our parent testers enjoyed the features of some prams such as the Graco Near2Me which lets you raise your baby and lower it at the push of one button. This is a great method to keep eye contact with your baby, and stay in touch, especially when they're asleep. If you're looking to purchase a travel system, make sure to check the frame is compatible with your car capsule, as this will save you from having to wake them up while changing between pram, car and back.
Convenience
It is important to take into account the needs of your baby's transportation when buying a newborn pram. Some prams come with an infant bassinet, carrycot or seat that reclines to an upright position. This is essential for your baby's development of the spine and breathing. It is also a good idea to look at what other accessories are included in the
childs pram, such as the footmuff and changing bag that are essential to keep your baby warm in colder months.
It's worth noting that certain
strollers strollers and prams can be transformed into travel systems allowing you to connect a car capsule with the frame using adaptors so that you can transfer your baby between the car and the pushchair without having to wake them up. These can be useful if you have a busy life or don't have a big enough boot for pram capsules, but it's important to keep in mind that your baby must be old enough and able to sit up independently before you can switch them from car capsule to pram.
Our tester's mother found that the ability to raise or lower the seat of her son's 10 months old was a great feature. One good example is the Graco Near2Me which can lower to allow your baby to glide towards you by pressing a button and stay in constant eye contact.
Finally, make sure your newborn pram has a sturdy base and wheels that can handle potholes and bumps. Ensure that you are able to fold it up easily and ensure that the safety harness is functional, fits comfortably and securely (five-point rather than three-point) and is able to be adjusted as your child grows. You should also be able to keep changing and shopping bags in the basket underneath (although be aware that loading the pram with too much weight could cause it to tip over). If you are unsure of what to choose, try various models at the local store.