Choosing a Pushchair Newborn

The choice of a new pushchair is among the biggest decisions you'll make for your child. The right model will allow your baby to grow comfortable and healthy.

Experts suggest that babies lie flat in order to encourage breathing and growth. This is why a good pushchair should have a lie-flat seat.

Seating with a lie-flat

Newborns should be able to lie flat in their pushchair for the first six months since it helps their back, development and breathing. However, not all pushchairs can be rolled flat, so it's important to check this prior to purchasing. The shop attendant should let you try out the pushchair to see whether your child is comfortable in it.

Choosing a newborn pram with a cocoon or carrycot that can create a lie-flat chair is a great option for infants because it allows them to sleep in a fully reclined position, protecting their spine and helping them breathe normally. Some prams include baby carriers and some permit you to attach a carrier separately to the frame. If your baby gets older, you can swap it out for the seat.

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

A travel system is a popular choice because it lets you use a newborn cocoon or carrycot that is attached to the frame of a compact pushchair and then move to a reclining seat when your baby is older, saving you the hassle of buying separate items. Some models can be converted from a single to a double pushchair allowing you to save on equipment and have flexibility as your child grows. You should consider the weight of the travel system with or without the carrycot. It might be heavier than other pushchairs. This is particularly important when you are planning to use public transport or travel often with your child. You should also check the stability of the travel system and if it's free-standing when folded. You'll need a stroller that is sturdy and able to handle the weight of a growing baby.

All-terrain models

The best baby stroller is one that's designed to handle all kinds of terrain. This is especially crucial if you prefer to wander around in the countryside or reside in a rural location 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 kind of terrain in mind. The key thing is to determine how durable and robust the chassis is, and if there's a suspension system in place to aid in the ride over rough terrain. The tyres should also be considered - if they're air-filled, you'll have to carry a pump, or at least have an emergency repair kit for punctures with you.

There are many all-terrain strollers available. They include models made by the top names in the baby equipment industry. One of the most sought-after is the Out n About Nipper V5 stroller, which has a great reputation and is suitable from birth with a carrycot or first-stage car seat (not suitable for overnight sleep). Its air-filled tyres are perfect for off-roading and its suspension can assist in cushioning your baby's ride. It's also a great option for jogging when your child is old enough.

Another alternative is the iCandy Core, which can be used in a double or single mode, and comes with a huge basket that can accommodate up to 10kg of shopping. Its front wheels, which are larger than those on the majority of single pushchairs make it easier to maneuver over a wide variety of surfaces. It has a reclining chair that can be adjusted to a nearly flat position. It is also equipped with an infant car seat adaptor so it could be used as an entire travel system.

Another all-terrain stroller worth looking into is the Mamas And Papas Armadillo Pushchair: Lockable Wheels Black (a knockout post) & Papas Ocarro, which is narrow enough for buses and shop aisles however it has large, sturdy tyres that can cope with rough surfaces. It also has a massive basket that folds easily using just one hand. It's not cheap, however you'll have to weigh the pros and cons before making an investment.

Easy to Manoeuvre

There are many different types of pushchairs, but when selecting one for a newborn consider the following points:

To ensure a healthy development of the spine A newborn baby should be laid flat. This can be done best in a carrycot or pram, but as they get older, you can shift to a pushchair, and then a toddler seat. A 3 in 1 pushchair - sometimes known as a pram travel system bundle - is the best choice, as it will grow with your child. It usually consists of a frame with a pram/carrycot and the baby seat that can be attached to the chassis.

You might also think about a reversible unit, to be able to use it with your baby facing you, or turn it around and let them see the world. This will keep them content and reassured. Certain models come with a canopy that is facing the parent and allows you to keep an eye on your child and maintain eye contact during the trip.

Another factor to consider is the weight of your pushchair. Make sure it's light. It's not necessary to carry it up and down from public transport or your car frequently, so ensure it's light. Also, you'll want ensure that the pushchair folds easily and compactly, making it easier to fit in the boot of your car.

Check that the pushchair can fold and be easily transported in the event of traveling with your children. This is essential, particularly if you plan to use the pushchair overseas where customs officials might need to inspect it for security reasons.

You might also want to determine if the pushchair has a single or linked handle and what height it is adjustable to. Single handles are easier to fold and fold more compactly when using single handles. It is possible to consider a steering wheel that can be adjusted in height, too, which will be useful for any grandparents who might help you with it. The ideal thing to avoid is to spend hours struggling to disassemble and assemble your pushchair, while carrying a newborn on board!

Storage space

A good sized basket is essential to keep baby's diaper kit and toys. Look for a model with ample storage space that is easily accessible when using the carrycot, and doesn't require you to get your infant out of the cot by lifting the lid.

A carrycot is a light portable cot with some sort of handle which can be attached to the chassis of a pushchair, making it an effective travel system. They are typically used with newborns and are an essential element of a "from birth" pushchair. They allow your baby to lay on their backs, which is good for their spinal and lung development.

A sun canopy is an essential feature of a pushchair because it helps to protect your child from the elements. Certain models come with sunshades built-in while others come with removable SPF/UPF 50+ canopies. A footmuff is a must as it will help to keep your baby warm on colder days - look out for models which include one in the bundle or within their accessories range.