Buying a
New Born Push ChairA high-end
pushchair suitable from birth that's perfect for babies due to its luxurious woven fabrics and ergonomic support. It's also easy to set up and can easily manage narrow aisles in the shops.
Newborns should be able to lay flat, so look for a baby model that comes with the car seat/carrycot combination that is suitable from birth. Some models have a reversible seating unit so you can choose to have your baby either face you or the world.
Safety
A
pushchair near me (also referred to as a buggy, pram or stroller) is one of the most used baby products and safety is a priority when choosing one. The first thing you should look for is a five-point harness. This harness secures the child in the seat by securing five points: two across shoulders two around the hips, two between legs, and two in the middle. This system prevents the child from falling out of the seat when it tips over or when driving down or up the kerb that is steep.
For newborns carrying a carrycot or infant prams, car seats and carrycots combination is vital. They must be able to lie down. This helps protect their spine development and allows them to breathe fully. This is crucial as it reduces the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Babies born today should not be allowed to be able to travel for long distances in a pushchair without this feature even if it features an adjustable seat.
It is also advisable to buy a pushchair that is suitable for babies from the time of birth. The pushchair should be suitable for use with a carrycot which can lay flat or with an infant car seat/pram. It should also include the seat unit that can be completely reversible, so that the baby can look at either the parent or the world.
The wheels of the stroller must be strong, have good suspension and be easily accessible. A lot of pushchairs have pneumatic tyres that absorb shocks better than standard tyres and can run on uneven terrain.
Additional accessories such as a raincover, shopping baskets, or changing bags for prams are useful for everyday use, especially when you are running errands with your baby in the stroller. A lot of pushchairs come with an hood that can be placed over the face of the baby to protect it from the sun or the wind. Certain hoods can be adjusted to suit the conditions.
Comfort
You want a newborn pushchair that is comfortable for both the baby and the parents. This could mean padded seats, easy to manoeuvre and sturdy enough to withstand rough terrain. You should also consider other features such as storage options and protection against weather. If you intend to use the stroller to run, or off-road adventures you'll need an infant stroller with bigger wheels. This will provide your child maximum comfort on the most uneven terrain.
The best pushchair to use for the newborn is a pram or travel system with a carrycot. This allows your baby to sleep in a lying-flat position, which is crucial for the development of the spine and lung. Some pushchairs labeled "suitable from birth" require that your child sit up independently. Check this prior to making a purchase.
A bassinet is an alternative that provides a compact crib-like area for your baby to relax in, while still being safe and secure in the pushchair. They are generally more expensive than a pushchair or travel system. However, if your child is happy in this seat, it may be worth the price.
Many pushchairs come with the option to 'face' the seat towards you for bonding and comfort, or away from you, to explore the world. They may be called parent-facing or world-facing pushchairs. Some models will come with a single-to-double pushchair option, meaning they can be converted to accommodate two children without the necessity of an additional double pushchair frame.
You will need a shade for your pushchair on hot days to protect your baby from the sun and avoid overheating. Find it in pushchair bundles or separately. In colder weather you might want to purchase a footmuff which will keep your baby warm and snug. There's a broad selection of these and the majority are machine washable.
Style
It is crucial to be aware of the details when shopping for a new baby pushchair since this is one of the most frequently used products. Certain models are designed for rough terrain, and have larger wheels and a robust frame. Some models are lighter and easier to move when folded. Some models also come with adjustable seat padding, a extendable SPF canopy and a footmuff to keep warm during colder months.
It is recommended that babies lie flat as this aids the development of their spine and opens their airways. It is best to use a pram/pushchair with the carrycot or travel system. Some pushchairs come with a fully reclining seat unit or carrycot that are suitable from the time of birth. Check that this feature is available, as certain descriptions only mention the option of reclining, but do not mention the option of a lie-flat seat.
Most pushchairs let you choose between a parent facing or a world facing unit. This allows you to choose whether your baby faces you for bonding or reassurance with you, or is away from you to explore the world. Some pushchairs even offer both choices at the same time!
Many pushchairs are equipped with a range of accessories, like shopping trays and baskets to simplify the lives of parents. Some pushchairs have an inbuilt sunshade constructed of UPF50 or SPF+ fabrics. This protects the baby against the sun. Other popular accessories include a parasol that can be attached with clamps to the pushchair frame or a sunmuff, which is usually included in the bundle or sold as an add-on.
Budget
A new pushchair is likely be one of the most expensive items your baby will own therefore it's essential to take your time researching and purchasing within your budget. Keep in mind that you will use your pram for many years and it's the most used item. You need to pick one that is compatible with your lifestyle and is comfortable both for both you and your child.
You should consider purchasing a travel system that includes a carrycot and seat. This is the safest way to transport a baby because it makes sure they sleep flat. This is great for protecting their spinal development and opening up their airways. Newborns should be transported in a lying position until they are six months old.
Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, and also have a seat that reclines fully to an upright position. This is important as it protects the baby's growing spine and allows them to rest comfortably during long trips. However, it's worth noting that not all pushchairs that state they are 'lie-flat' actually provide the full flat position, and you should confirm this before making your purchase.
Consider a model that has a large basket for all the baby's necessities and other items. The basket should be easily accessible and you should not have to struggle to get your shopping in or remove your baby's carrycot.
Another factor to consider is the wheels, which can vary from model to model. Some have swivel, fixed or lockable wheels that help you manoeuvre the pushchair in various situations. Some have larger wheels that can be more sturdy on rough terrain or have PU tires that are designed to be puncture-resistant.
You must also consider the size of the handlebar and whether it can be adjusted to your height. You should also make sure that the pushchair can be folded down to fit in your car's boot or on public transport. Certain models, such as the Joie Vinca, have one-handed folds that were highly evaluated by our MFM home testers and was awarded an award of Gold Award in previous MadeForMums awards.