Buying a Pram Newborn
Prams and pushchairs are multi-functional, flexible partners of caregivers and parents. They're the co-pilots of the journey of your child.
A pram newborn is a must for infants and newborns. It comes with a a deep, sturdy carrycot that has soft and secure walls.
A pram is equipped with a bassinet. However, it can also be converted into a stroller if the baby is ready.
Safety
Newborns must be protected to the greatest extent possible. Purchasing a stroller or pram equipped with safety features will ensure that your baby is safe and secure during travel. The basic requirements for any stroller or pram are to have a working brake, a 5-point safety harness (2 shoulder straps, 2 waist straps, and an strap for the crotch) and an adjustable wrist tether strap for the person pushing the pram. Make sure that the pram you choose is in compliance with these requirements before you buy.
Find a pram that allows your baby to travel in the position recommended for lying flat. This position is supportive for the baby and prevents an unintentionally dangerous curve in the spine which can lead to spinal problems. It reduces the risk of SUID (Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome) or asphyxiation, by keeping the airways open. The majority of prams can be used as early as the moment of birth. They come with seats that recline to lay flat for infants, and can be converted to a pushchair for older children.
The suspension of a pram will determine how smoothly it runs. A pram with lots of spring suspension will be more expensive however, it's worth the extra expense when you intend to use your pram every day for a few years or longer.
Always read the instructions and look at the warning labels on your pram or foldable stroller. When not in use, keep your stroller away from dangers like traffic, bicycles or other people. Also, you should remove any bags or other items that are not removed from the handles as they could cause your baby to get trapped or even suffocate.
Even if the baby seems asleep, it's never recommended to leave a pram or stroller unattended. They could wiggle and get stuck or the pram might roll away and they could be injured. Hanging bags or other items from the handles is not an ideal idea as they can fall and hit your child in the head.
Comfort
It is essential that newborns have the option of lying flat, as this promotes lung and back development. Cocoons or carriers are available on a variety of prams. They create a nest-like environment that is a comfortable place for your baby and can be detached easily from the frame. Others, such as the egg2's bucket-style seat do not recline to lie flat, but offer a comfortable ride for your baby.
Some prams come with a separate bassinet, newborn stroller or inset seat so that you can easily switch between sitting and sleeping modes based on your baby's requirements. It is commonly referred to as a 'compact travel pram system' and is the first option you should test with your baby.
Find a pram that has two shoulder straps (ideally cushioned) and a five-point safety harness that fits your baby's body securely. Make sure there are no gaps or areas that are loose where fingers could become trapped, and that the buckles are simple to use, particularly for older children. You should also consider whether you want a parent-facing pram. It is great to keep an eye on your child, and makes them feel more secure by seeing their parents.
Some prams, such as the Graco Near2Me have a nifty raise and lower feature that allows your baby to come right up to your face at the push of an button, which our parent testers really loved! This is a great method to keep eye contact with your baby and keep in contact, particularly when they're sleepy. If you're in the market for an appropriate travel system, be sure that the frame's compatibility with your chosen car capsule and this will prevent you having to wake them up every time you're changing between car, pram and back again.
Convenience
When buying a pram sets newborn it is essential to consider your baby's needs for transport. Some prams have a carrycot or bassinet, that allows your baby to be laid flat (essential for their spinal development and breathing) while others come with seats that recline to a lie-flat position. It is also important to know what other accessories are included in the pram, such as a footmuff and changing bag. These are essential for keeping your baby warm in the event of cold.
Some strollers and prams can be converted to best travel pushchair systems. You can connect an auto pod to the frame with adaptors, meaning you can transfer your child from the car to the pushchair without waking them up. These can be useful if you have a busy schedule or don't have the sufficient space for a pram capsule, although it is worth bearing in mind that your child must be old enough and able to sit up on their own before you can switch between the car capsule and pram.
Our tester's mother found that the ability to raise or lower the seat of her son's 10 months old was a fantastic feature. One good example is the Graco Near2Me, that can be adjusted to lower the seat, allowing your child to 'glide into your arms with the push of the button, and remain in constant eye contact.
Finally, make sure your pram newborn has a solid base and wheels that are able to handle potholes and bumps. Ensure that you can fold it down with ease and ensure that the safety harness is in good working order and fits comfortably (five-point rather than three-point) and can be adjusted as your child grows. It should be possible to store bags for changing and shopping under the pram (but keep in mind that too much weight can cause it to tip over). If you're unsure which to choose, test out some different models at your local retailer.