Frequently Asked Questions
Although most people have used these terms interchangeably, pushchairs and prams are entirely different types of baby strollers.
A pram, or a baby carrier, is specifically made for newborn babies and very young infants and should be pushed by an adult. It typically has a soft, padded sleeping surface, a sunshade and a canopy to serve as a protector, so they are usually large and bulky.
A pushchair, or a stroller, is designed for infants that are slightly older and toddlers who can sit up already. Pushchairs have a seat that can be reclined for babies to sleep or nap. Most models provide sunshades and adjustable footrests for the protection and comfort of your little ones. Strollers are easier to move around than prams and can be easily folded to avoid the worries of storing and transporting them.
To summarise, a pram is created for very young infants or newborns, while a pushchair is made for slightly older infants. Prams are generally larger and more challenging to carry around. Pushchairs, on the other hand, are more portable and simpler to manoeuvre.
Babies are able to start using strollers when they can sit up on their own; this happens when they are at six months old. They can now take naps or sleep while at ease and comfort as they can be placed in a stroller with a reclining seat in case any necessary adjustments are needed.
Select a stroller that also matches the age and size of your baby. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s capacity limit of the stroller, as it usually has a limited amount of weight it can handle.
During the first months of your baby, a pram or a bassinet is much more suited for your baby when going outdoors since they need a flat surface that can support them, and it is something that they can lie on. You can already purchase a pushover once your baby is able to sit up on their own since they give better comfort and movement.
Be prepared to always have an eye for your little one when they are placed in a stroller; this includes ensuring that the safety straps are well-placed and secure. In addition, consider the current weather conditions so that your baby gets to wear the appropriate clothing to protect them from the elements.
When babies can sit up independently or when they turn six months old, they can now use a pushchair since it offers a seat to the baby without additional support to their heads, as these babies can sit properly already.
Despite what is said above, it still depends on the development of the baby, as every baby has different paces when it comes to their development. Hence why monitoring your baby's development is vital, and the decision is up to you if you think your baby is developing well enough to use a stroller.
A pram or bassinet is something that you should buy for your baby during its first few months in this world. It allows your baby to lie whenever you are planning to go somewhere outside. After that, you can switch to a pushchair as it is more suited for babies and toddlers who already know how to sit up independently.
The weight and age of your baby as well as meeting your country's safety standards are essential factors to consider when purchasing a pushchair. In addition, always check if the safety harness is secure and watch closely on your babies, as they should never be left unattended in the stroller.
It is common to see most six-month-old babies stop using a pram, especially if your baby learns how to sit upright at an earlier age. The need to shift from a pram into a pushchair is critical because pushchairs give support to babies who can sit on their own, whereas prams have a flat surface on which babies lie.
It is also important to consider the pace of growth your baby has because it will determine whether your baby is ready to use a pushchair or whether you need to wait a little longer before transitioning them into using one.
As your baby becomes curiously active in exploring the things around them, pushchairs give them an excellent opportunity to have more interactive experiences for you and the baby. Furthermore, it provides your baby with valuable features like having a tray to place their snacks or toys.
When buying a stroller, always remember to take note of your baby’s age and weight and that the product is approved based on your country’s safety standards. It is also a good habit to constantly check the safety harness to see if it is secure and to ensure you do not allow your little one to be left unattended while in the stroller.