Best Features to Look for in a Baby Pram

Are you struggling to select a baby pram for your forthcoming bundle of joy? Make a cup of coffee and settle in - we’re here to help.

To make an informed decision, it’s important to know what features to look for in a baby pram. Here are some key aspects to consider as you shop around.

Height Adjustable Handlebar

You’ll be pushing the pram around a lot - and it can get tiring after a while. It is a good idea to find an option that comes with height adjustable handlebars. This way, you and your partner can push the stroller around without having to slouch. Height adjustable handlebars are a must-have feature if you and your partner have a significant height difference.

Canopy

Although a canopy on your pram is not important, it is a big convenience and can provide better protection to your little one and makes for a more comfortable experience. Just make sure the canopy doesn’t make any loud noises when you open or close it as doing so could startle your baby (especially if your toddler has difficulty sleeping).

Sun Protection

The ideal baby pram should come with additional features such as sun protection. These prams include sunshades that provide your baby with SPF protection. These trollers also keep your baby cold during hot weather.

You can buy a sun shade separately if your pram doesn’t come with one.

Portability (does it fold?)

Prioritize a stroller that is easy to fold and store. Not only are foldable prams easier to move around, but they also take up less space than standard strollers. Portable prams are especially useful if you plan to travel with your newborn in a car on a regular basis. This means you won’t have to invest your savings in a larger vehicle just so you could fit your pram in the trunk. Portable prams also tend to be lightweight than others, and many of them are easy to carry around. Keep that in mind if you have to travel often with your baby in town.

Brakes

Check that any pram you intend to buy has a functioning braking system, one that’s convenient to operate and securely locks the wheels. The brakes should lock at least two wheels to provide more safety. Most two wheel brakes can be activated in a single stroke with the help of a bar in the rear of the pram frame. Some brakes are operated by foot tabs above each rear wheel. Higher-end prams come with hand-operated brakes on the wheels.

Larger Wheels

Large wheels are a must-have feature in modern strollers because of one simple reason: they make it easier to maneuver around curbs and rougher terrain. The only downside is that bigger wheels also eat up a lot of trunk space. Most prams also come with front wheels that swivel to make steering easier. Some prams come with front wheels that don’t swivel; those are hard to use on rougher terrain.

Pro tip: Test the stability of the wheels by placing your baby inside the pram and taking it for a spin. If the wheels sit uniformly on the floor, then this is a good product.

Shock Absorbers

It helps to think of your prams as a makeshift vehicle - for babies. The prams should be built to protect a baby’s delicate spines while also providing maximum comfort. Think of all the terrains you’ll be pushing the pram on - forests, roads, hills, and tree roots on the streets. This is why it is important to have an all-terrain pram with shock absorbers that will ensure that your baby stays comfortable throughout the journey - even if you accidentally hit a pothole.

Pro tip: A shock absorber on both sides of the pram makes it easier to rock your baby so you can put them to sleep.

Restraint System

Get a pram with a durable safety belt and strap system. This will keep your baby from slipping out of the pram. Most restraint systems are made of thick nylon webbing that are very sturdy. Look for buckles that are easy for you to use but difficult for the baby to unfasten. As a rule, the straps should be height-adjustable for a more proper fit.

Mosquito Net

This feature is especially useful if you're taking your baby outdoors. Most prams come with mosquito nets that will protect your baby from mosquito bites and other insects.

Now that you know what features to look for in a baby pram, it’s time to find the right one. Check out the best pram for newborn babies here.