Buying a Pram

There are three main types of pram:

a 2 in 1 pram converts from a lie flat to an upright pushchair for when the child is older. It comes supplied with a hood and cover to provide enclosed comfort for a small baby
a 2 in 1 plus converts in to a pushchair too but also has a removable enclosed pram seat with handles to be used as a carrycot
a 3 in 1 is as described above, with a full sized carrycot which can slide into the frame of a pushchair. Your baby can sleep in the carrycot at night which makes buying a crib or moses basket unnecessary
Travel Systems offer full mobility and transportability. They consist of a car seat plus a chassis enabling your baby to move from car to pushchair to home.
All Terrain pushchairs are an increasingly popular choice with active parents. The three wheels make them extremely versatile across many terrains whilst remaining comfortable

All parents will have different needs depending on their lifestyles and budget and livelihood. Some considerations might include:-

do you live in a rural or urban environment?
do you use public transport? If so a light weight, collapsible model might be appropriate?
do you use private transport? If so a collapsible model that fits in the boot of your car may be more desirable?
do you walk a lot? If so make sure your chosen pram has good suspension. For easy manoeuvrability look for swivel wheels
fixed wheels are better over bumpy terrain although some models switch between fixed and swivel wheel
check that the pram has a comfortable, ergonomic handle and is adjustable if you are going to use it a lot or if lots of different people will be looking after your baby
look for a seat that can be moved into different positions, including a lie flat position to help little babies to sleep. Consider reversible seats as this will enable to seat unit to face forward or be reversed.
an easily collapsible pushchair is useful if you are out and about a lot
check the storage space. Are you able to store your baby bag and shopping too?
you might like to look for optional extras too. These might include a foot muff, rain cover and sun canopy

never leave your baby unattended in a pram
always use the pram brakes when stationary, even on a flat surface
remove the rain cover indoors to avoid overheating
check all safety locks
check that the pushchair has a five point harness and the carry cot has D-rings enabling a harness to be attached to it
don’t use your pram to carry two children unless it is designed for that purpose
check that your pram complies with current British safety standards