Pram

Types of prams

A pram, which is also known as a baby carriage, is designed for infants and young children. It has a reclining seat so that the child can lie flat on their back. It is different from a stroller, which has a seat that faces the parent or the outside world. There are different types of prams that are suitable for various needs and lifestyles.

• Traditional prams

  Traditional prams have a large, deep carrycot that is suitable for newborns. The carrycot is designed so the baby can lie flat on their back as recommended by pediatricians. It has a suspension system for a smooth ride on uneven ground. Traditional prams are ideal for parents who like taking long walks on uneven surfaces. However, it can be hard to lift traditional prams into the car boot because they are heavy.

• Stroller prams

  Stroller prams have a seat that can recline to a flat position. They are lighter than traditional prams and easier to fold with one hand. Stroller prams have swivel wheels that make tight corners easy. They also have a smaller turning radius than traditional prams. This makes stroller prams ideal for city living and public transport. However, stroller prams may not be comfortable for long babies with short nap cycles.

• 2-in-1 prams

  2-in-1 prams have a carrycot that can be removed from the frame when the baby outgrows it. The carrycot can be replaced with a stroller seat. This means the same frame can be used for both a carrycot and a stroller seat. The 2-in-1 prams are great because they grow with the child. They also save money because the frame can be used for two different types of prams. However, the 2-in-1 prams take up more space when the carrycot is attached because they are longer than traditional prams.

• Travel system prams

  The travel system pram is the most flexible because it comes with a car seat. The car seat can click into the stroller frame when moving the child from the car to the house. This means the parent does not have to wake the baby up when moving them from the car. The car seat is great for short trips because babies can stay in their car seat when going to the grocery store. However, the travel system pram can be more expensive than other prams.

• Jogging prams

  Jogging prams are made for active parents who like running and hiking. They have three large air-filled wheels and a strong frame that can handle bumpy surfaces. The front wheel of the jogging pram can be locked for better stability when going around corners. This makes the pram ideal for uneven surfaces like mountain trails. However, the jogging pram is not designed for use in malls and grocery stores.

How to choose pram

• Ease of use

  A pram that is easy to use makes life easier for parents. Look for features like a simple one-hand fold system, easy steering, and a smooth wheel action. These make the pram simple to collapse, unfold, and maneuver in busy places like shops or parks.

• Comfort for the baby

  The comfort of the baby is of utmost importance. A pram with a soft padded seat, good back support, and a smooth suspension system ensures a comfortable ride for the baby. Also, a seat that can recline fully is important for younger babies who need to lie flat.

• Safety features

  Safety is non-negotiable when it comes to babies. Always check that a pram has a strong brake system that locks the wheels in place. A safety harness keeps the baby strapped in securely. Also, a hood or canopy protects the baby from the sun and rain.

• Longevity and versatility

  A pram that lasts and grows with the baby is worth the investment. Look for a pram with a convertible seat that changes from a carry cot to a toddler seat. Some prams also allow adding a second seat when the family grows. A pram with a high weight limit can be used for longer as the baby grows.

• Portability

  A pram that is portable is important for families who travel or have small car boots. A lightweight pram is easy to lift and carry around. Prams that fold up small take up less space in the car boot or when stored at home.

• Price and budget

  Prams come in all prices to suit different budgets. Setting a budget helps narrow down the choices. Prams within the budget offer all the important features needed. While some prams are more expensive, they offer payment plans to make buying easier.

Features, functions, and design of prams

Prams come with many features and designs suitable for different situations. For instance:

• Canopies

  Most prams have canopies or hoods. They are helpful since they protect babies from direct sunlight or rain.

• Seating arrangement

  Some prams have a single seat for one baby. Others have two seats side by side or one on top of the other. Buyers get a double pram when they want a pram for two babies. The seats can be placed to face each other, face away, or face forward.

• Adjustable handles

  Some prams have adjustable handles. Parents and guardians can change the handle's height to match their comfort levels.

• Storage

  A storage basket is a common feature in many prams. It is usually located beneath the seat. Parents can store the baby's essentials or their belongings in the basket. Some prams have additional storage pockets on the sides or at the back.

• Folding mechanism

  Prams with a one-hand folding mechanism are easy to fold and unfold. They are a great choice for busy parents or those with little strength. Some prams require two hands to fold and unfold them.

• Brakes

  Prams have brakes for safety reasons. Parents can lock the wheels so the pram doesn't move when parked.

• Comfort

  Babies will be comfortable in prams with padded seats. The seats also recline to different angles. A reclining seat is great when a baby wants to take a nap.

• Weather protection

  Besides canopies, some prams have rain covers and mosquito nets. Rain covers protect the baby from rain. Mosquito nets keep mosquitoes and other insects out.

• Luxury features

  Luxury prams come with many additional features. They have removable seats, baby swings, and built-in speakers. The removable seats can double as car seats or baby chairs. Parents can wash the seats whenever they get dirty. Seats with built-in speakers can play soothing music for the baby. Baby swings gently swing the baby when they get fussy.

Safety and quality of pram

Safety

A pram for a newborn is designed with various safety features to ensure the infant's protection and comfort. Here are some common safety features found in modern prams:

• Five-point harness

  A five-point harness with padded straps secures the baby in the seat and prevents them from slipping or falling out.

• Brakes

  Reliable brakes, including foot-operated ones, ensure that the pram stays in place when parked, preventing accidental rolling. The brakes should be easy to engage and disengage from the handlebar.

• Swivel locks

  For prams with swivel wheels, a lock that keeps the wheels fixed can help maintain better control and stability on uneven surfaces.

• Secure locking mechanism

  A secure locking mechanism is vital to keep the pram firmly closed when in use and prevent accidental folding when in use.

• Canopy or sunshade

  A large, adjustable canopy protects the baby from harsh sunlight, rain, wind, and other environmental factors.

• Ventilation

  A pram with good ventilation and mesh panels regulates the temperature and improves airflow, keeping the baby comfortable.

• Quality materials

  Prams made with quality material, including aluminum for the frame, are strong but lightweight. Additionally, the fabric should be durable, non-toxic, and easy to wash.

Quality

When assessing the quality features of a pram, several important factors come into play to ensure the safety, comfort, and convenience for both the baby and the caregiver. Here are some key quality features to consider:

• Safety Features

  Look for prams with a robust braking system, including foot-operated brakes that lock the wheels in place. A five-point harness keeps the baby securely strapped in. Additionally, the pram should have a stable base and a wide wheel track to prevent tipping.

• Comfort

  The pram should have a padded, reclinable seat that can accommodate a growing child. Additionally, it should have suspension systems to smoothen the ride.

• Ease of Use

  Prams with a one-hand folding mechanism are easier to operate. Also, an adjustable handlebar accommodates caregivers of different heights. The handlebar should be comfortable to hold and steer.

• Versatility

  A 2-in-1 pram is preferable since it can convert from a carrycot to a stroller. Additionally, a pram that has a reversible seat is ideal since it allows the baby to face the caregiver or the world.

• Durability

  The pram's frame should be sturdy, preferably made of aluminum or steel. Furthermore, the fabric should be high-quality, tear-resistant, and easy to clean.

Q&A

What is the difference between a stroller and a pram?

Strollers and prams are used for the same purpose, which is to carry babies around. The main difference between a pram and a stroller is that prams are designed for newborns since they have a fully flat bed. On the other hand, strollers are meant for older babies who can sit up. This is because the stroller seat has a reclined sitting position.

Are 3-in-1 prams better than 2-in-1 ones?

Both 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 prams are equally good as they have different features that will suit the needs of different parents. A 3-in-1 pram is more versatile because it has three modes of use. It also offers more options for parents on how to use the pram. However, a 3-in-1 pram may be bulkier than a 2-in-1 pram due to the extra parts. On the other hand, 2-in-1 prams are simpler and easier to manage because they have fewer components. It is also more lightweight than a 3-in-1 pram.

What is the weight capacity of prams?

The weight capacity of prams varies depending on the model and manufacturer. However, most prams can carry babies that weigh up to 36 kilograms.