Consider also where your newborn baby will sleep: in a Moses basket, crib, cot or carrycot. This will also help you decide on what type of pram or carrycot to buy.
Three-in-one pram and pushchair combinations
Although the name is often interchangeable with buggy or stroller, our definition of a pushchair is anything that is compatible with an infant carrier. Typically it will also have a lie-back seat unit or a reclining bucket seat
Things you may want to consider:
Newborn babies need to lie back, so if you are interested in a pushchair you will need either a pushchair/carrycot combination or a pushchair with a lie-back facility.
Some models have a reversible seat unit so your baby can face you, and when they’re a bit older they can look out as you stroll. A lie-back seat will make it suitable for newborns.
Different models fold in different ways, some can be folded and unfolded with one hand and some are freestanding when folded. A carry handle or fold strap may help to make things easier. The fold function and weight are particularly important features to consider if you often use public transport or a car.
You may wish to consider the terrain the pushchair will be used on as different models are equipped with different types of wheels (they may be fixed, swivel or lockable) to make strolling easier in different situations. The size of the wheels varies between models, larger wheels can offer better suspension. Some models are fitted with pneumatic tyres for a comfortable ride on uneven ground.
Shopping trays and baskets can make things easier if you’re running errands with a little one in tow.
You may wish to transport the pushchair in a carry bag, some models have this included or they may be sold separately.
A pram allows your baby to lie flat. The benefit of this is that they will be supported while being kept comfortable and protected in a warm and cosy carrycot. In this secure rear-facing environment you can maintain eye contact with your newborn, so you can keep an eye on them. You may also like the more traditional look associated with a pram.
Three-wheeler pushchairs
These will do the same job as a 3-in-1 combination pushchair, but they include everything you’ll need without you having to purchase extra components, so they’re easy and good value purchases.
They include either:
- A carrycot, pushchair and car seat
- Or a convertible two-in-one pushchair and car seat.
Some car seats can be used for babies up to 13kg/29lbs (approximately 9-12 months), they simply attach to the chassis of the pushchair.
Buggies and strollers
Buggies and strollers are lightweight, versatile and simple to use. They're ideal for shopping, travelling and holidays, and most can be used for newborn babies.
A buggy or stroller will not be compatible with carrycots or infant carriers and can be used only in seat mode - although some will feature a lie-back function, making them suitable for newborns.
You may find it particularly useful to compare the different weights of the models and the different ways in which they fold in order to find a lightweight and easy-to-use model to suit your lifestyle.
Doubling up - if you have more than one child
If you have twins, or small children close in age and weight, double buggies and tandems are ideal.
Tandems
A tandem pushchair has one seat in front of the other and offers a practical solution to transporting your baby and toddler together. They're suitable for babies from birth onwards, and some are suitable for twins.
Different models have a combination of the features below:
- A number of lie-back positions including full
lie-back or incline - Independent, multi-position reclining seats
- Independent adjustable foot rests
- Bumper bar for older babies
- Lockable swivel wheels
Double buggies
For carrying two babies, or a baby and toddler, side by side. Some are suitable for babies from birth and different models have a combination of the features below:
- Removable washable covers
- Padded liners
- Shopping basket
- A number of lie-back positions including full lie-back or incline
- Independent, multi-position reclining seats
- Lockable swivel wheels
- Umbrella fold for easy storage
- Optional carrycot
Avon Babycare stock a range of accessories that will help you make the most of your pram, pushchair or buggy - wherever you are.
Changing bag
A convenient way to store neatly everything you need to take your baby visiting. Most bags come with a PVC changing mat, pockets for soiled items and insulated pockets.
Sun parasol
Helps protect your baby from harsh sunlightFoot muff
Ideal in cold weather - keeps your baby snug and warm while you are out and about. Some foot muffs convert to pram quilts and liners.
Head support cushion
Specially designed to give young babies extra support and comfort in pushchairs, car seats and bouncing chairs.
Covers and nets
Protect your baby from top to toe in bad weather or keep bothersome insects away with a cover. Do not use indoors or in hot weather to prevent overheating or risk of suffocation.
Looking after your pram or pushchair
Your pram or pushchair will perform better and last longer when it's looked after. The instruction leaflet provided with your pushchair will tell you how to keep it in prime condition.
And you'll find more information on travel systems in our guide to car seats and car safety.Safety
Your pram or pushchair will perform better and last longer when it's looked after. The instruction leaflet provided with your pushchair will tell you how to keep it in prime condition.
And you'll find more information on travel systems in our guide to car seats and car safety.Your pram or pushchair will perform better and last longer when it's looked after. The instruction leaflet provided with your pushchair will tell you how to keep it in prime condition.
By law, all pushchairs sold in the UK must comply with British standards. Some travel systems may include a car seat that complies with European standards.
To ensure your child's safety, remember these simple points:
Do
Always read the instructions carefully and familiarise yourself with all the moving parts before you use your pushchair for the first time.
Show anyone who's going to use your pushchair, and who may be unfamiliar with it, how to open and close it, and how to operate the brakes and locking mechanism.
Always check that locking devices are secure when you open the pushchair. Remember to release all locks before folding it.
Always secure your child in the pushchair with the five-point harness.
Don't
Adjust the seat position while your child is in the pushchair.
Leave your child unattended.
Carry more than one child in your pushchair unless it's designed for that.
Hang shopping or other heavy items on the handles, as it could tip over the pushchair or pram.
Use PVC rain covers indoors or in strong sunlight.
Top tips from our Nursery advisers
"Budget aside, the space available in your home and car boot is important when choosing a buggy. Think about your lifestyle and consider the buggy’s weight and the conditions it’ll be used for: pushing along city pavements, lifting onto buses or manoeuvring down country tracks? Do you need a carrycot, travel system or do you want the facility of having a seat unit that can be either rear or forward facing?"