Buying a pram can be really confusing, particularly if it's your first time, it is a rite of passage and also one of the biggest investments you'll make. You don't want to end up with the wrong one!
There are so many different types of prams on the market these days, and it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Do you need a traditional pram? Or a buggy that converts into a car seat?
I've taken the hard work out of it for you so read on to see my top suggestions.
How to choose the best pram for you and your baby
First you need to decide what is important to you in a pram. If you want something that is lightweight and easy to fold, then a standard umbrella pram would be a good option. If you are looking for something more luxurious, with all the bells and whistles, then you might want to consider a convertible pram or stroller.
Some other factors to consider when choosing a pram include the type of terrain you will be using it on (ie. city streets or hiking trails), how often you will be using it, and whether you have any other young children who will also need to use it so an integrated ride on board would be a benefit.
How We Choose – Best Prams
We know that the safety and comfort of your baby is your top priority so I personally have read through thousands of user reviews and star ratings and spoken to tons of Parents to find the best products out there for your little angel. As well as recommendations from other parents, I cross check facts with medical advice where necessary and the latest recommendations.
So, what is the best pram brand in the UK?
There is no one "best" brand of pram in the UK. It really depends on your personal preferences and what you are looking for in a pram.
Lets get into it!
CYBEX Gold Melio stroller
Why Parents Love It
Parents love how easy this pram is to fold to get into and out of the car, something you’ll probably be doing a lot of! It is said to be compact when folded down and parents love how lightweight it is.
This pushchair has a removeable cushion for hot days with breathable mesh at the back for ventilation so is great in both summer and winter.
This pushchair frame is also compatible with Cybex car seats to turn it into a travel system.
What You Need to Know
Size 91 x 49 x 107 cm
Weight: 5.9kg
Suitable for a newborn baby to 3 years (max weight 15kg)
Includes Integrated handle for easy lifting and stowing, XXL sun canopy with sun protection factor USF50 +, 2 mesh windows for optimal ventilation
The CYBEX Gold Melio stroller is also compatible with the Melio Cot, Cocoon S and Cybex baby car seats
Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2-in-1 Pushchair
Why Parents Love It
Parents enjoy using this pram saying that it is smooth and easily maneuverable. It was reported to be easy to assemble and the shopping basket is huge so ideal for spending the day out of the house or a trip to the supermarket.
The frame is compatible with Maxi Cosi car seats making it easily adaptable in to a travel system.
Parents loved the puncture free wheels although some did note that it can be difficult to clean because the material doesn’t come away from the frame so is wipe clean only.
What You Need to Know
Size 75.8 x 55.6 x 32.4 cm;
Weight 14Kg
Suitable from birth to age 4 (22kgs)
Shopping basket holds up to 10kg
The carrycot includes a real mattress so is comfortable for baby to take a nap while on the go and car seat adaptors if you get the travel system.
Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Plus
Why Parents Love It
Having used this pram for both my kids, I had to include it on the list! I personally have used this pram on all kinds of terrain and it has remained sturdy, smooth to ride and SUPER easy to control with just one hand. As an added bonus you can reverse the handlebar to put the big wheels forward for extra rugged terrain, I’d never seen that on any other pram!
I love the quality, the fact it comes with a bassinet/ carrycot for newborn babies and that the brake is hand operated.
A downside for me was that the shopping basket is very small so I’d often have to carry a changing bag myself as well.
Other parents echoed my love for this pram saying its incredibly easy to assemble and very stable as well as loving the sleek design. The aprons can also be switched out for different colours and there are loads of add on available.
What You Need to Know
Size 80 x 59 x 100 cm;
Weight 9.6kg
Suitable for newborn to 3 years (max 17kgs)
Includes Frame; Leather-look carry handle, Seat unit, Carrycot, Underseat basket, Extendable sun canopy, Carrycot apron, Extendable sun canopy wires/clamps, Rain cover.
Joie Chrome DLX Pram Set
Why Parents Love It
Parents love how cosy this pram is and that the frame will fit the popular Joie i-level car seat. The reversible seat also has an adjustable handlebar which is a favorite, especially with taller parents or parents with a height difference.
The shopping basket is said to be spacious and parents also note that this pushchair has a comfy leg rest for baby to rest their feet on.
What You Need to Know
Size 86 x 59.8 x 113.2cm
Weight 12.7kg
Suitable for newborn to age 3 (17.5kg max)
Includes a mattress, an extendable hood, a cosy apron and a rain cover.
Silver Cross Reflex Stroller
Why Parents Love It
Parents love that this pram is spacious and is great for tall kids although they did say the shopping basket can be a little difficult to reach. Many parents took this pram overseas and loved how easy it was to travel with for young babies, a smooth ride and is of excellent quality.
Parents noted that its not easy to steer with one hand due to it having two handles but that it is easy to get into and out of the car boot and they love the lie flat seat.
What You Need to Know
Size 85 x 50 x 111 cm;
Weight 8.5kg
Suitable for newborn to age 5 (25kg max)
The seat has an ergonomic backrest design that creates a natural cradling position for your baby, protecting their back and spine for maximum comfort
Includes: Frame; newborn head hugger; multi-height handles, padded safety harness; articulating bumper bar, extendable UPF50+ hood; rain cover and shopping basket.
FAQs
In my experience shopping for a pram can be confusing and overwhelming, there are plenty of products out there but how do you know which is best for you and your baby? I have compiled some of the top questions around prams here for you to review.
Is a pushchair suitable for my newborn?
It depends on the weight and size of your newborn. A pushchair is not suitable for a newborn who is less than 8 pounds (3.6kg) or 21in (53cm) long. For newborns who weigh more than 8 pounds (3.6kg) or are longer than 21in (53cm), a pushchair can be a good choice if you will be pushing your baby in it often. Otherwise, you may want to consider a baby carrier instead.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a baby stroller that also includes a detachable car seat. This allows you to remove the car seat from the stroller and install it in a car without having to wake or disturb your baby. It's a great option if you have more than one mode of transportation and want to be able to use the same stroller for both.
How long can a baby stay in a carrycot?
The answer to this question really depends on the size and weight of the baby. As a general rule, most babies can stay in a carrycot until around six months of age. After that point, it's generally recommended that babies start to transition to pram. Of course, each baby is unique and should be evaluated on an individual basis by a pediatrician.
Can I put my 3 month old in a pushchair?
You may put your 3-month-old in a pushchair seat only if he or she weighs at least 10 pounds (4.5kg) and can sit up on his or her own. It is not recommended to use a pushchair before 6 months of age, when babies are developmentally ready to sit up without support.
When using a pushchair, be sure to follow guidelines for safe sleep. Always place infants in a car seat or bassinet that faces the rear until they reach the age of 1 year old and weigh at least 20 pounds (9kg). This will reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Why do babies have to lie flat until 6 months?
It's important for babies to lie flat until 6 months because it helps them develop their motor skills.
The muscles and bones in a baby's neck and spine are still developing, so if they were to stay in a sitting or standing position too soon, it could lead to problems with their development. By lying flat, babies can practice moving their head and neck around, which will help them build the strength and coordination they need to sit up and walk later on.
What is the best pram for a first time mum?
Some mums might prefer a lightweight stroller that's easy to fold and carry, while others might want a more heavy-duty model with all the bells and whistles.
Some factors to consider when choosing a pram include: your budget, the size and weight of the pram, how many additional features it has (such as an infant car seat adapter, a sun canopy, or storage space), whether it's easy to maneuver, and how comfortable it is for both you and your baby.
Hopefully this gives you a good starting point for choosing the best pram for you!
How many weeks pregnant do you buy a pram?
It depends on the type of pram you're buying. If you're buying a travel system, which includes a car seat and a stroller, you'll probably want to buy it around the time your baby is born so that you can use it right away. But if you're buying just a stroller, most people buy them around 6 or 7 months pregnant.
Some people wait until they know the baby's gender to make their purchase, but there really isn't any advantage to waiting. In fact, many stores have special deals for expectant mothers in the early stages of their pregnancies. So if there's a particular model or color of stroller that you have your heart set on, go ahead and buy it!
What should you not buy for your first baby?
You should not buy any clothes for your first baby. Wait until the baby is born to see what size the baby is and what type of clothing the baby needs.
If you are having a baby shower you may also be gifted with a lot of clothes, I didn't need to buy any for my baby until she was around 6 months!
What does a new baby really need?
A new baby really needs love, care, and protection.
In addition to the love and care parents provide, a baby also needs some essential items. These items may vary depending on your location and culture, but generally include nappies, clothing, food, a place to sleep, and a way to keep warm. It's important to make sure your baby has all of the essentials so they can grow and develop in a safe and healthy environment.
Is Silver Cross the best pram?
There is no definitive answer to this question as every family's needs and preferences are different. However, Silver Cross prams are often considered to be some of the best on the market, thanks to their combination of style, functionality and durability.
If you're considering purchasing a Silver Cross pram, it's important to do your research and read reviews from other parents who have experience with these products like here in this blog.
How do I choose my first pram?
When choosing your first pram, there are a few factors you'll need to take into account.
First, you'll need to decide what type of pram you want. There are three common types - the standard pram, the travel system, and the all-in-one.
The standard pram is just a regular pushchair with a large canopy to protect your baby from the sun and wind. The travel system includes a car seat that can be easily attached to and removed from the chassis of the pram, which is great for travelling. The all-in-one is like a hybrid between the two - it includes both a car seat and a chassis so that it can be used as both pushchair seats and car seat.
So, what is the best stroller right now?
There is no one "best" stroller. It depends on your needs and what you're looking for in a stroller so I have read through thousands of reviews from verified customers on Amazon to find the best options for you.
I hope you’ve found the information above useful, as a first-time parent I often wish I had access to information like this so I want to help other parents through the minefield that is parenthood!
All of the prams above are available on Amazon so click ‘Check price on Amazon’ to see which prams work best for your budget so you can shop today.
Thanks for reading!
