What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat

A pushchair is a baby chair with wheels that is specifically designed for babies as young as 6 months. They usually have an adjustable seat that can recline to lie flat and feature a five-point harness.

Some pushchairs travel systems can be used right from birth by adding a compatible car seat or carrycot to create an entire travel system. This allows your child to move easily from the car to the pushchair without having to be distracted.

Safety

There are several important safety features to look for in a car seat. It is crucial that the pushchair you select is compliant with British standards and regulations, regardless of whether it's a new model or a second-hand model.

Make sure that your pushchair meets BS 7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003 before you buy it. This will ensure that it's safe for infants and children to ride in. This will include ensuring that it's fitted with an effective locking device and that the brakes are working well (check these frequently).

It's important to look for an automobile seat that can recline to a flat, comfortable position when you choose a stroller. This is essential for infants because research has shown that babies who spend a significant amount of time in a straight position can have breathing problems. The car seat's wavy shape blocks their airways, causing them to struggle to breathe.

You can also opt for a baby car seat that snaps onto the chassis of your pushchair as part of a travel system bundle. This allows you to switch between your the stroller and car easier, as you won't need to wake your baby awake every time you want to switch between modes of transport.

A few of the top pushchair car seat models offer side impact protection, too. This is designed to reduce the force of a collision, by providing extra padding and energy-absorbing material to safeguard your baby's head, shoulders and chest. This kind of protection can be crucial in the case of a side collision which is a greater risk for babies in the earliest stages of development.

Another safety feature that is beneficial is the top tether. This prevents the car seats from spinning forward during an accident and can reduce the risk of head hits. This is a legal requirement for all coach-built car seat.

Easy to Use

A pushchair car seat is among the most commonly used baby items therefore it's crucial to ensure it comes with good comfort and convenience features. Whether that's a comfortable cushion for the baby's seat or an adjustable handlebar for parents, there are many accessories to pick from too!

Some pushchairs come with the option of a carrycot, which is perfect for babies. It allows them the opportunity to sleep flat and is beneficial for their health and growth. When they are older the carrycot can be converted into a pushchair. The majority can be used with an automobile seat base.

When you are choosing a stroller, ensure that it folds easily and is able to fold that allows it to fit into small spaces or the boot of your car. Some models can fold with the seat attached, making them easier to use. There are numerous brake options that are available based on your needs. A foot brake is great for general everyday use and an active hand brake can be useful for those who are frequently stopping and starting on busy streets. There are also jogger style pushchairs that have three wheels that can help you maintain the momentum while going either uphill or downhill.

Most 'from-birth' pushchairs let you choose which direction the seat faces, either parent facing or the world facing. The option to change this can be done by simply pressing the seat onto the chassis. However the Doona is an innovative product that elevates this to the next level by allowing both. You can either click the infant car seats into the Doona and then recline the seat into a lying position for infants or use it as a stroller. This is a fantastic feature because it works with or without the base of your car. It is also utilized on planes and trains!

If you plan to travel frequently or use ride-share vehicles A lightweight seat that is simple to install is a must. Make sure that the base can be pushed into and out easily. Also, think about purchasing a travel system bundle which includes all the essentials.

Style

Style is a personal preference and you can find something that will suit both parents and infants. Based on your budget and preference you can pick an elegant and stylish appearance, or something that is more striking. There are a variety of choices available from top brands, so whether you're looking for something timeless and modern or contemporary and vibrant, you'll find it.

It is also important to consider the amount you're willing to invest in your pushchair car seat as it will probably be one of the biggest baby purchases. Many parents opt to purchase an entire travel system that includes the car seat and the carrycot. This is the ultimate in convenience and comfort for families who are always traveling.

Many pushchairs have a lie-flat feature that allows newborn babies to sleep flat. This is recommended by experts due to its benefits for lung development and spinal development. Some brands go an extra mile and include a top-quality one-handed recline system so that you can simply press a button to recline your pushchair's seat to a more comfortable sitting position.

Some models come with adjustable footrests, handlebars and other features that let you customize the seat to meet your child's changing needs. Some even come with a reversible seat, so that your baby can sit with you for reassurance, bonding or go out into the world to explore their surroundings.

Additionally, some brands offer a variety of pushchair accessories including the footmuffs that are ideal for colder weather as well as sun parasols to shield your little one from the sun. A sunshade will help keep your baby from becoming overheated.

The best pushchair car seats come with a five-point harness that is designed to secure your child at their hips and shoulders, the most rigid points on their body. This is the safest and most secure method of restraining your child in their pushchair. You should only ever use pushchair car seats that have this type of safety harness. There are new one-pull systems, such as the Cybex Pram, which allow you to precisely adjust your baby's seatbelt with only one pull. This will ensure a safe and secure fitting.

Stores

It's a fact that a pushchair car seat can be pretty bulky. In this regard the best way to ensure you have enough space is to opt for one with an ample storage basket as well as a tray for parents and child seat cup holders. This will help keep all your essentials at hand when you are out and out and about.

You may also search for one with a built-in weather canopy to protect your little one from the elements. Other helpful features include locking swivel front wheels to allow for greater maneuverability, an easy-access parent tray and a self-standing fold that means it's super easy to store away when not in use.

The ultimate in convenience and security A Doona travel system bundle lets you to seamlessly move your child from the car seat to the pushchair without causing any disturbance. The Doona ISOFIX Base attaches to the belt buckle on the car seat and then clicks onto the pushchair frame. This innovative system lets you to be prepared from birth and save time on daily errands.

Egg3 is another alternative. This award-winning 3-in-1 travel system lets you to put your infant in a car seat at the time they are born. You can then change them to a pushchair unit once they reach the right age. This system is ideal for those without the luxury of a car, as it comes with car seat adaptors that are compatible with all major brands.

The egg3 is able to be converted into a tandem using egg2/3 adaptors that are available when you have twins or are expanding your family. The egg car seat is equipped with smart SensorSafe technology that will alert you in real-time through your smartphone if there are four possible dangers. These include sudden chest clip unbucklings, temperature too cold or warm in the car seat or your baby being seated for too long.

If you want to ensure that your pushchair is in top condition for your next trip out, you should consider investing in a hood fabric refresh kit or a deep clean service. Start by vacuuming first, then wiping the hood down with warm soapy water or gentle sterilizing fluid, making sure to dry the fabric in the sunlight.