Pram vs pushchair: which is better?
Short answer: They do different jobs. A pram is a pushchair with a lie-flat carrycot or bassinet for newborns, so your baby can lie flat. A pushchair is a wheeled seat for babies and toddlers, often with a reclining seat and sometimes a carrycot option. Choose by your baby's stage, your space and how long you want to use it.
Pram
Used from birth, with the lie-flat part used until your baby is ready to sit up in a seat unit.
- Check the folded size against your car boot and hallway.
- Try the handlebar height, the weight and the one-hand fold.
- Check whether a car seat can click on, and which adapters you need.
Pushchair
Used from the age the maker states for the seat (some recline flat from birth, others are for older babies).
- Check the minimum age for the seat and how far it reclines.
- Try the fold, the weight and the basket size.
- Look at the wheels and suspension for your usual routes.
| Pram | Pushchair | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | from birth, with the lie-flat part used until your baby is ready to sit up in a seat unit | from the age the maker states for the seat (some recline flat from birth, others are for older babies) |
What the guidance says
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep, in the feet-to-foot position (feet at the bottom of the cot, Moses basket or pram).
- It is fine for a baby to fall asleep in a car seat while you travel, but take them out as soon as you arrive.
Related questions
How long can you use a pram?
From birth, with the lie-flat part used until your baby is ready to sit up in a seat unit.
How long can you use a pushchair?
From the age the maker states for the seat (some recline flat from birth, others are for older babies).
Shop at Baby Kingdom
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
What prams & pushchairs does Baby Kingdom sell?Pushchair buying checklistDo I need a pram?Pushchair vs travel system: which is better?Guide to car seats: what to look forIs a double pushchair right for you? Quick quizAll prams, pushchairs and travel systems advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.