How to choose the best bassinet pram for your newborn

What is a bassinet pram?

A bassinet pram comes with a removable bassinet that fits into a standard pram frame. Unlike a seat pram, which is often positioned at an angle and is primarily for older toddlers, bassinet prams allow newborns to lie flat during strolls. As your new baby can't sit upright or hold their head up yet, this set-up provides a safer and more supportive environment for them. 

Factors to keep in mind before shopping   

Before you start shopping around for a pram, think about what you enjoy doing the most and what you hope to do with your new baby. Also, take into account how many kids you have now, or if you plan to have more in the future. This will help you find the perfect pram to fit your lifestyle. 

Your lifestyle: All-terrain vs city living  

Where will you be taking this pram? If you love getting out into nature, opt for a model that's made for all terrains, such as the Bugaboo Fox 5. Its advanced wheel suspension and extra-large, puncture-proof wheels are designed for smooth strolls and restful naps, wherever you're heading.

For city dwellers, you might consider a pram that's more lightweight and compact. For example, the Bugaboo Dragonfly pairs comfort with a patented design that folds with one hand without removing the bassinet or seat. Unfolding is just as simple, so you can easily hop on and off public transport with your baby in tow.

The size of your family 

Bassinet prams aren’t only for parents of one. There are double or twin pram with a bassinet that can accommodate families with multiple children. For example, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo is perfect for siblings of different ages, with versatile configurations for a seat and a bassinet. For twins, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Twin can fit either two bassinets, two seats, or one bassinet and one seat side by side. These double prams are slimmer than you might think, measuring just 74 cm wide to fit through standard doorways easily. And if a third child is riding along, add a Bugaboo comfort wheeled board.

If you have one child for now but plan to expand your family later, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Mono arrives in the box as a single bassinet pram with an extra side luggage basket, so you can enjoy more storage for your essentials. It can convert into a double later if you have another baby on the way. 

What to look for in a bassinet pram

Safety and durability 

Start by checking that a pram has been rigorously tested and built to meet the highest quality and safety standards. Also, look for prams made with high-quality, easy-to-care materials to ensure longevity with your family.

Bugaboo offers a 4-year warranty for all new prams when you buy on Bugaboo.com or register your pram with us. As part of our commitment to building a sustainable future, our prams are engineered and tested beyond industry standards to keep going for generations. They’re crafted with premium materials in safe and fair conditions at our award-winning factory. Most Bugaboo fabrics are easy to clean and even machine-washable. We’re also introducing low-carbon and recycled materials to reduce our products’ footprint by 47% by 2026 — without compromising quality.

Comfort 

Look for bassinets that offer ergonomic designs with padded and breathable fabrics to prevent overheating, especially if you live in a hotter region. Adjustable canopies that offer protection from the sun, wind, or rain can keep your newborn comfortable during naps.

For example, Bugaboo bassinets are spacious and come with a soft, aerated mattress to give your baby next-level comfort all year round. They also feature a mesh breezy panel which helps your baby stay cool in summer. You can close the panel and extend the extra-large canopy for a cozy cocoon on colder days. 

Maneuverability 

Easy steering is a must-have for any pram. Whether you're navigating curbs or weaving through tight spaces, you need a pram that's smooth to manoeuvre and easy to push with one hand. This frees you up when you have lots to juggle or another child to keep entertained. 

Easy to transport  

For families that are constantly on the move, you might choose a pram that's more lightweight and easy to fold. This makes moving between locations simpler, especially with your newborn in tow. If you're a parent who relies on driving, remember to check that your pram's dimensions can fit into your car's boot.

Adaptability 

Pick a pram that can transition into a regular seat when your baby has outgrown the bassinet — they're usually around 6-9 months old, but they have to be able to sit up unsupported. Both the Bugaboo Fox 5 and Bugaboo Dragonfly are future-proof and can easily convert to a seat pram when your baby becomes an active toddler.

Spacious storage 

Newborns come with plenty of essentials, so having room for everything while you're on the go is a must. All Bugaboo newborn prams feature generous underseat storage, starting from 10 kg to carry all you need. The Bugaboo Donkey 5 Mono even includes a side luggage basket and lets you carry up to 20 kg. If you need more space, add an extra organizer or bag. 

Accessories 

Look for a bassinet pram that is compatible with a wide range of extra essentials and accessories. This may be a newborn inlay for warmth and protection, a cup holder to keep drinks within reach while on the go, or a stand to let your child rest in their favorite bassinet at home. 

A bassinet pram for every family

Designed to let your baby lie flat, a bassinet pram provides the secure, cosy support they need from day one. When selecting a pram, think about your lifestyle, the number of children you have, and essential features like safety, comfort, and ease of manoeuvrability. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or off-road paths, the right pram will help you create lasting memories on every journey with your new arrival.