Buying a Pram Newborn
Prams and pushchairs are multi-functional, multi-purpose allies of parents and caregivers. They are the co-pilots on the new journey of your child.
A pram newborn is dedicated to infants and newborns. It comes with a a deep, sturdy carrycot that has soft and secure walls.
A pram comes with a bassinet, but it can also be converted into a stroller when the baby is ready.
Safety
Newborns should be protected to the greatest extent possible. A stroller or pram with safety features will keep your baby secure and comfortable while traveling. A pram or stroller must include a break that is working and a five-point harness (2 shoulder straps with two waist straps and the crotch belt) and a wrist tether for the person driving it. Check that your chosen pram is up to the standards before purchasing.
Look for a pram that allows your baby to ride in the recommended lying flat position. This position supports your baby and helps prevent the development of a risky spinal curve that could cause problems with their spine. By keeping the airways open, it reduces the risk for SUID (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or Asphyxiation). The majority of prams travel system that can be used from birth will include the seat unit, which will recline into a lie-flat pram position for babies younger than the age of one and transform into a pushchair unit for older children.
The suspension of the pram will determine how smoothly it is. A pram that has many spring suspensions will be more expensive however it is worth the extra cost in the event that you plan to use your pram every for a while or more.
Always take the time to go through the instruction manual and check the warning labels for your stroller or pram. 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, since they can cause your baby to get caught or choke.
Even if your baby is asleep, it's not a good idea to leave a stroller or pram unattended. They could wiggle and get stuck or the pram might slide away and the baby might be injured. Hanging bags or other objects from the handles is not an ideal idea because they could fall and strike your child on the head.
Comfort
It is crucial that babies have the option to lie flat, as this promotes lung and back development. Cocoons or carriers are available on many prams. They create a nest-like space that is comfortable for your baby and can be removed easily from the frame. Some seats, like the bucket-style seat on egg2, can't be reclined completely flat, but offer a comfortable ride for your child.
Some prams include an additional bassinet or seat for infants. This allows you to easily switch between the sitting and sleeping positions based on the requirements of your baby. This is sometimes called a "travel system" and is the first option to try out with your newborn.
Choose a stroller with two shoulder straps (ideally cushioned) and a functional five-point safety harness that fits your child's body securely. Be sure there aren't gaps or loose areas where fingers could become trapped, and that the buckles are easy to use, particularly for older children. You should also think about if you would like a parent-facing pram. It is great to keep an eye on your child and makes them feel more secure by being able to see their parents.
Some prams, like the Graco Near2Me, have an awesome raise and lower function that brings your baby close to your face with the touch of an button, which our parents testers absolutely loved! This is an excellent method of keeping connected to your baby, particularly if they're sleeping. If you're searching for a travel system that is compatible with the car capsule you choose you won't have to wake your baby up to switch between the car and pram.
Convenience
When buying a pram newborn it is essential to consider your baby's transport needs. Some prams have a carrycot or bassinet, that allows your baby to be laid flat (essential for their development of their spine and breathing) while others come with seats that recline to a lie-flat position. It's important to look at what other accessories the pram comes with like an infant changing bag and a footmuff which are essential to keep your baby warm during the colder winter months.
It's also worth noting that some prams and strollers can be transformed into travel systems permitting you to connect a car capsule with the frame via adaptors so that you can transfer your child between the car and the pushchair without needing to wake them up. These are great when you have a busy schedule or you don't have enough space in your car's boot to accommodate the pram. But, you must be aware that you'll need wait until your child is old enough to sit by themselves before you can convert them from a car capsule to the pushchair.
Another feature to consider is the possibility of raising and lowering your newborn's seat from a low to a high setting, which keeps eye contact with them and keeps them close to you, something that our parent tester found was very useful for her 10-month old boy! One example is the Graco Near2Me which allows your child to glide closer to you at the press of the button.
Also, ensure that your pram newborn has a sturdy base and wheels that can withstand bumps and potholes and that you are able to fold it down easily, and check that the safety harness you use is safe, fits comfortably and securely (five-point rather than three-point) and is able to be adjusted as your child grows. You should be able store shopping bags and changing bags under the pram (but keep 3 in 1 pram mind that too much weight can cause it to topple over). If you are unsure of which to choose, test various models at the local store.