Choosing a Pushchair Newborn

Choosing a pushchair newborn is among the most important choices you make for your baby. The best model will allow your child to grow comfortable and healthy.

Experts recommend that babies should be able to sleep flat to aid breathing and development. This is the reason a great pushchair will have lie-flat seating.

Lie-flat seating

For the first six months, babies should be seated on their pushchair. This is beneficial for their back development as well as breathing. It's important to make sure that the pushchair you're considering is able to lie flat. One method to test a baby's pushchair is to ask the store assistant if you can try it out and see if you can comfortably sleep with your child.

Selecting a baby stroller with a cocoon or carrycot that creates a lie-flat seat is a fantastic option for babies in the early years because it allows them to sleep in a fully reclined position, securing their spine and helping them breathe normally. Some prams and strollers include a carrycot for newborns with them, while others offer the option of attaching it separately to the frame, and changing it into the seat when your baby is old enough.

The majority of experts agree that babies should be placed in a carrycot or pushchair facing their parents. This lets them see their parents directly and allows their parents to monitor their needs and supervise their infant. However many parents aren't sure of the direction to take or when their baby can start facing out to the world.

A travel system is a popular option since it lets you use a baby carrycot or cocoon attached to the frame of a pushchair and then switch to a reclining chair once your baby is older, saving you the hassle of purchasing separate items. Certain models also offer the option of changing from a single pushchair to double when your baby grows, allowing you to be flexible and making it possible to save money by purchasing only one piece of equipment. It is important to check the weight of a travel system (with and without the carrycot attached) because you might find it heavier than other pushchairs, especially if you are going to be taking public transport or travel frequently with your baby. It is also important to determine the stability of a travel system, and if it is free-standing when folded. You'll need a stroller that is sturdy and can handle the weight of a growing baby.

All-terrain models

The ideal baby pushchair is one that is designed to withstand all kinds of terrain. This is particularly important if you wander around in the countryside or live in a rural area where you're likely to encounter bumpy and uneven surfaces. The good news is that there are several models that are specifically designed with this type of terrain in mind. The most important thing is to determine how strong and robust the chassis is, and whether there's a suspension system in place to help with the ride over rough terrain. The tyres also need to be considered. If they're air-filled, you'll require to carry a pump or at least have an emergency repair kit for punctures with you.

There are many all-terrain strollers on the market. They include models made by the top names in the world of baby equipment. Out n About Nipper V5 is a popular stroller which can be used with a car seat or carrycot from birth. It's not recommended for sleeping at night. Its air-filled tires are ideal for off-road usage and its suspension will help cushion your baby's ride. It's even suitable for jogging when your child is old enough.

The iCandy Core is another option. It can be used as a double or a single pushchair. It also has a large basket that can hold up to 10kg of food items. The front wheels are bigger than most single pushchairs, which makes it easier to manoeuvre across a wider range of surfaces. It also has a reclining seat that can be set to a nearly flat position. It also includes an infant car seat adaptor kit that allows it to be used as an e-travel system.

Another all-terrain pushchair worth considering is the Mamas & Papas Ocarro, that is small pushchair enough to fit on buses and shop aisles but has big, rugged tyres that are able to withstand rough surfaces. It also has a huge basket that folds effortlessly with just one hand. It's not cheap you'll have to weigh up the pros and cons prior to making the purchase.

Easy to Manoeuvre

There are a myriad of pushchairs. But, when you are deciding on one for your newborn, consider the following:

To ensure a healthy development of the spine, a newborn push chair baby should be laid flat. This can be done best in a pram or carrycot however, as they grow older you can move them to a small pushchair and then a toddler seat. It is recommended to select the 3 in 1 stroller or a travel system pram or bundle. This will allow your child to grow up with it. It is usually frame with a pram/carrycot attached to it as well as the baby car seat snaps on.

You may also want to look into a reversible device to be able to use it with your baby facing you or turn it upside down and let them explore the world. This will keep them comfortable and reassured. Certain models come with an open canopy that faces the parent and allows you to keep an eye on your child and maintain eye contact during the trip.

The weight of your stroller pushchair is an additional aspect to take into consideration. You don't want to carry it on and off public transport, or in and out of your car often, so check that it's light. Similarly, you'll want to ensure that the pushchair folds well and compactly, making it easier to fit in the boot of your car.

If you have plans to travel with your family, make sure that the pushchair is easy to maneuver and can be easily folded to be stored. This is especially crucial if you plan to use it in another country, where customs officials might need to examine your pushchair for safety reasons.

You might also want to consider whether the pushchair comes with a single or linked handle and the height it is adjustable to. Links handles are more comfortable to push with one hand, while single handles let you fold it up more compactly. It is possible to consider a height-adjustable steering wheel, too, which will be useful for any grandparents who might help you with it. The ideal thing to avoid is to be slogging away for hours trying to assemble and dismantle your pushchair, while carrying a heavy newborn on board!

Storage space

A good sized basket is essential to keep baby's changing kit and toys in. You should look for a model that has a big storage space that you can access easily while using the carrycot. It is also crucial to choose a model in which you don't need to remove your child from the cot in order to lift the lid.

A carrycot is a light portable crib that has a handle and can be attached to a pushchair chassis to create an entire travel system. Commonly used with infants, they are an essential element of the pushchair that is 'from birth' as they allow your baby to lie flat which is better for their spine and lung development.

A sun canopy is an essential accessory to a stroller since it protects your child from the elements. Some models come with sunshades while others have removable, extendable SPF/UPF 50+ canopy. A footmuff is also worth considering because it will help keep your baby warm on colder days - look out for models which include one as part of the bundle or in their accessories range.