Choosing a Pushchair Newborn

The choice of a newborn pushchair is one of the most important decisions you'll have to make for your child. The right model can help your baby grow comfortably and stay healthy.

Experts advise that young babies should sleep flat in order to assist breathing and development. This is the reason a great pushchair will have lie-flat seating.

Lay-flat seating

Newborns need a lie-flat position in their pushchair for the first six months since it improves their back, development and breathing. However, not all pushchairs can be rolled flat, so it's important to check this prior to buying. A good method to test a baby's pushchair is to ask the shop assistant whether you can test it out and see if you can comfortably lay down with your baby in it.

Selecting a baby stroller with a carrycot or cocoon that creates a lie-flat seat is a great option for babies in the early years as it will allow them to sleep in a completely reclined position, securing their spine and allowing them to breathe normally. Some prams come with baby carriers, while others allow you to connect one separately to the frame. When your baby is older, you can exchange it for the seat.

Most experts agree that infants should be placed in a pushchair or carrycot with their parents facing them. This lets them see their parents directly and makes it easier for parents to keep track of their needs and supervise their baby. Many new parents aren't sure of which direction to choose for their child or when they should let them face the world.

A travel system is a very popular choice since it lets you utilize a newborn cocoon or carrycot that is attached to the frame of a pushchair and then move to a reclining chair once your baby is old enough, avoiding you the expense of purchasing separate items. Some models also have the option of converting from single to double pushchairs as your child grows, double pushchairs giving you flexibility and giving you the opportunity to save money by purchasing just one piece of equipment. You should check the weight of the travel system including or without the carrycot. It could be heavier than other pushchairs. This is especially important when you are planning to use public transport or travel frequently with your child. Check the stability of the travel system, and if it stands up on its own when folded. You'll want a strong and secure pushchair that can support the weight of your growing infant.

All-terrain models

The best pushchairs for newborns are ones that can handle different terrains. This is especially important if you like to wander around in the countryside or live in a rural area where you're likely to encounter uneven and bumpy surfaces. There are many models that have been specially designed to handle this kind of terrain. The most important thing is to determine how durable and double pushchairs durable the chassis is, and if there's a suspension system in place to aid in the ride over rough ground. If the tyres have air in them it is essential to think about whether you will need a pump to fix a puncture or a puncture repair tool.

There are a number of all-terrain pushchairs on the market and are made by the big names in baby equipment. One of the most sought-after is the Out n About Nipper V5 stroller that has a stellar reputation and is suitable from birth using a carrycot or a first-stage car seat (not suitable for overnight sleep). The air-filled tires of this stroller pushchair are perfect for use off-road and its suspension will cushion your baby's trip. Once your child reaches the appropriate age, it's appropriate for jogging.

Another alternative is the iCandy Core, which can be used in single or double mode and has a large basket that can hold up to 10kg of shopping. Its front wheels are larger than most single pushchairs, which allows it to maneuver over a wider range of surfaces. It also features a recline seat that can be adjusted to a near-flat position and comes with an infant car-seat adaptor kit, which allows it to be used as a travel system.

The Mamas & Papas Ocarro is another all-terrain stroll worth considering. It is narrow enough to fit in bus aisles and shops however it has huge, rugged tyres which can be able to handle rough terrain. It has a large basket that can fold with one hand. It's expensive, however it's important to weigh up the pros and cons prior to making an investment.

Easy to manoeuvre

There are a myriad of pushchairs. When choosing one for your child, consider the following:

To promote healthy spine development For a healthy spine, babies should be laid flat. This is best done in a pram or carrycot but as they get older you can move to a pushchair and then to a toddler seat. It is best to opt for the 3 in 1 stroller or a travel system bundle or pram. This will allow your child to grow up with it. It's typically frame with the pram/carrycot and a baby car seat that snaps onto.

You may also want to look for a reversible seat unit to use it with your newborn facing you or turn it around so that they can explore the world around them. This will keep them calm and content. Certain models may even come with a parent-facing canopy, which will allow you to keep an eye on them and keep an eye on them throughout the trip.

Another aspect to consider is the weight of your pushchair. Check that it's lightweight. You don't need to carry it up and down from public transport or in your car often, so make sure it's light. Also, you'll want make sure that the pushchair folds neatly and compactly, making it easier to fit into the trunk of your car.

If you're planning to travel with your family members, ensure that the pushchair is easy to manoeuvre and can be easily collapsed for storage. This is particularly crucial if you intend to use it in another country, where customs officials might have to inspect your pushchair for safety concerns.

You may also want to think about whether the pushchair comes with a single or linked handle and what height it's adjustable to. The linked handles are easier to push with just one hand, whereas single handles let you fold it up more compactly. Consider a steering wheel that can be adjusted in height to accommodate grandparents who may help you. The ideal thing to avoid is to spend hours struggling to assemble and dismantle your pushchair, while carrying a heavy newborn on the back!

Storage space

A basket of adequate size is required to store baby's toys and changing kit. Choose a model that has an ample storage space that you can easily access when using the carrycot, and that does not require you to take your infant out of the cot by lifting the lid.

A carrycot is a light portable crib that has a handle and can be connected to a chassis for a pushchair to create a travel system. They are typically used with infants and are an essential component of an "from birth" pushchair. They permit your baby to lie on their backs, which is good for their spinal and lung development.

A sun canopy is an essential feature of a pushchair because it can help protect your child from the elements. Some models have sunshades that are built-in, and others come with a removable SPF/UPF50+ canopies. Consider using a footstrap to keep your baby warm during colder winter months. Look for models that include one in the bundle or accessories range.