The main risk with putting a young baby in a stroller seat that does not fully recline to a flat surface (or capsule for longer than an hour) is that their back becomes curved with legs up and neck tilted forward.
This can restrict the amount of oxygen they're getting and can put your child at risk, this is why Australian safety standards now require companies to advertise pram seats that do not recline to a fully flat surface as intended for babies who are '6 months plus'.
If your baby is over 6 months, it is safe to use a pram seat that does not recline fully flat but always check with your pram's user manual before use.
What should I use if my baby is under 6 months old?
Experts recommend prams are used with a bassinet for babies under 6 months of age as the safest travel option for their development and safety. Here's why:
- Bassinets are specifically designed to meet all of your babies needs
- Bassinets reduce the risk of SUIDS (Sudden Unexpected Infant Death – formerly called SIDS)
- Lying flat ensures their airways remain clear
- A flat, firm surface allows them to stretch out and move freely which is important for both muscle and spinal development (your baby is developing rapidly during this period)
- A flat position is also most comfortable for bub to sleep in, but keep in mind that pram bassinets are not recommended for overnight or unsupervised sleep
We recommend keeping your baby in the bassinet until they are around 6 months of age or can sit up unaided.
The alternative is purchasing a pram with a seat that fully reclines to a flat surface and comes with a newborn insert to ensure maximum comfort and safety. You can check out the LUNA to see how a newborn cocoon works.
