Buying a Pram Newborn

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

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

A pram is typically equipped with a bassinet but can be converted into a stroller seat when baby is ready.

Safety

Newborns are incredibly fragile and need to be kept as secure as possible. Purchasing a stroller or pram equipped with safety features will ensure that your baby is secure and safe during their travels. The most essential requirements for any pram or stroller include a functioning brake, a 5-point safety harness (2 shoulder straps, 2 waist straps and the strap for the crotch) and a wrist tether strap for the person pushing the pram. Check that your chosen pram is in compliance with these requirements before you buy.

Look for a pram that allows your baby to ride in the recommended lie-flat position. This position supports the baby and prevents an unintentionally dangerous spinal curve that can lead to spinal problems. It reduces the risk of SUID (Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome) or asphyxiation, by keeping the airways clear. The majority of prams that can be used from birth will have an infant seat that can recline to a lay-flat pram mode for younger babies and then convert into a pushchair seat unit for older children.

The suspension of the pram is crucial because it can affect how smooth the ride. A pram that has a lot of spring suspension will cost more, but it is worth the extra cost when you intend to use your pram every day for a few years or longer.

You should always take the time to read the instruction manual thoroughly and look over the warning labels on your pram or stroller. You should also make sure that your pram is parked in a safe spot free of bicycles, traffic or any other potential hazards when it is not being used. You should also remove any bags or other items from the handles as they could cause your baby to get caught or suffocate.

Even if the baby is asleep, it's not an ideal idea to leave a pram or folding stroller unattended. They can get wriggling and become trapped or the pram could be thrown away and the child could be injured. Hanging bags or other items on the handles isn't an ideal idea since they could fall and hit your child in the head.

Comfort

It is vital that newborns have the option of lying flat as this aids in lung and back development. Carrycots or cocoons are found on many prams. They create a cozy environment that is comfortable for your baby and can be removed easily from the frame. Some seats, such as the bucket-style seat found on the egg2, don't recline completely flat, but provide a comfortable ride for your child.

Some prams also have an additional bassinet, infant inset or stroller seat so you can easily switch between sitting and sleeping modes based on your baby's requirements. This is often described as a "travel system and is the first configuration you should try with your newborn.

Find a pram that has two shoulder straps (ideally with padding) and a sturdy five-point safety harness that fits your bub's body securely. Be sure there aren't gaps or areas that are loose in which fingers can get caught, and that the buckles are comfortable to use, especially for older children. You should also think about if you would like an adult-facing pram. It is ideal for keeping an ear on your child and makes them feel more secure being able to see their parents.

Our testers with parents enjoyed the features of some prams, like the Graco Near2Me, which lets you raise your baby at the push of a button. This is a great method to keep eye contact with your baby and stay in touch, particularly when they're sleepy. If you are looking for a travel system that is compatible with the car capsule you select, you will not have to wake your baby up to switch between the pram and car.

Convenience

When buying a pram newborn it is crucial to think about your baby's transport needs. Some prams come with a carrycot or bassinet, which allow your baby to be laid flat (essential for their development of their spine and breathing) while others have a seat that can recline to a lie-flat position. It is also important to know the other accessories that are included in the pram, for instance a footmuff or a changing bag. These are essential for keeping your baby warm in the event of cold.

Some prams and strollers can be converted into travel systems. You can connect a car pod to a frame using adaptors, so you can transfer your child from the car to the pushchair without waking them up. These are great for those who live a hectic lifestyle or you don't have enough space your car boot to accommodate a pram. But, you must be aware that you'll need to wait until your child is old enough to sit by themselves before you can change them from a car capsule into a pushchair.

Our tester's mother found that the ability to raise or lower the seat of her 10-month-old son was a wonderful feature. One good example is the Graco Near2Me, which can lower to allow your little one to 'glide towards you at the press of the button, and remain in constant eye contact.

Also, ensure that your pram newborn has a solid base and wheels that can handle potholes and bumps. Also, make sure you can fold it up easily, and check that the safety harness is in good working order and fits comfortably (five-point instead of three-point) and is able to be adjusted as your child grows. You should be able store bags for changing and shopping underneath the pram (but be aware that too much weight could cause it to topple over). If you're not sure what to choose, try various models at your local retailer.