What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat

A pushchair is a chair on wheels designed for babies starting at 6 months. They usually come with a seat that can recline to lay flat, and a five-point harness.

Some pushchairs are compatible with a car seats to create a travel system. This allows your child to move easily from the car to the pushchair, without being interrupted.

Safety

There are several essential safety features you should look for in a car seat. If you're thinking of buying a brand new or second-hand model it is essential to ensure that your chosen pushchair meets the essential British standards and guidelines.

Check if your pushchair complies with BS 197409/1996 or BS 1888:2003. This will ensure that it's safe for babies and children to ride in. This includes making sure that it's fitted with an effective locking device and that the brakes work properly (check them regularly).

It's worth looking 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 large amount of time in an upright position can experience breathing problems. The car seat's curly shape restricts their airways, causing them to struggle to breathe.

You can also choose a baby car seat that snaps onto the frame of your pushchair as part of a travel system bundle. This will make the transition from stroller to car much easier as you won't have to wake up your baby each when you switch modes of transportation.

Some of the top pushchair car seat models offer side impact protection too. This is designed to reduce the impact force of a collision by providing extra padding and energy-absorbing material to protect your baby's head, shoulders and chest. This type of protection is particularly important in the event of collisions with the sides, which can be more deadly for young babies.

A top tether strap is another useful safety feature to look for because it prevents the car seat from swaying forward in an accident, and can reduce the chance of head injuries. Make sure your pushchair is equipped with this feature as it's a legal requirement in all car seats made by coaches.

Simple to Use

A pushchair car seat is among the most frequently used baby products so it's essential that it has good comfort and convenience features. There are many options for accessories, whether it's a comfortable cushion for the infant or a handlebar with an adjustable height to suit parents' needs.

Some pushchairs include a carrycot that is ideal for infants. It gives them the chance to rest in a flat position which is ideal for their health and growth. A carrycot is a great alternative for a pushchair seat when they're older, and many can work safely with the base of a car seat too.

When you are choosing a stroller, ensure that it folds easily and is compact in its fold that allows it to fit in small spaces or in the boot of your car. Some models can fold with the seat still attached, making them easier to use. A brake is also a must-have and there are several different options depending on your lifestyle. A foot brake is suitable for everyday use, while an active handbrake can be useful if you are frequently stopping and starting on busy streets. There are also jogger style pushchairs with three wheels which can help you keep momentum when going either uphill or downhill.

Most 'from-birth' pushchairs let you choose which direction the seat will face, either parent facing or facing the world. It is possible to change this by simply pressing the seat onto the chassis. However, the Doona is a game changer that elevates this to a new level, with the option of both. You can either click the infant car seats into the Doona, and then recline the seat to a lying position for infants or set it up as a folding stroller. This feature is amazing because it can be used with or without an existing base in your car. It is also used on planes and trains!

If you intend to travel frequently or use ride-share cars A lightweight seat that is easy to install is a necessity. Make sure that the base can be easily clicked in and out. Also, consider the possibility of a travel system that includes everything you need.

Style

Style is a personal preference It is possible to find something that will suit both parents and babies. You can go for a sleek, sophisticated look or something more eye-catching and exciting, based on your personal preferences and budget. There are a variety of choices offered by top brands, so whether you want something classic and contemporary or vibrant and modern, you'll surely find it.

You'll also have to think about how much you're willing spend on your pushchair car seat as it's likely to be among your most expensive baby purchases. Many parents choose to purchase a travel system that has the car seat as well as the carrycot. This gives you the most comfort and convenience from the moment of birth and is perfect for busy families who require to be out and about on a regular basis.

Many pushchairs have a lie-flat feature that lets newborns lay in a flat position. This is recommended by experts due to the fact that it aids in the development of the spine and lung. Some brands go the extra mile by including a premium one hand recliner that lets you press a button to recline the seat of your pushchair for a more comfy position.

Some pushchairs include footrests, adjustable handlebars, and other features, so that you can tailor the model to your child's needs. Some models even have a reversible seating option so that your child can sit with you for reassurance, bonding or go out into the world around them to explore.

Certain brands also have accessories for pushchairs such as feetmuffs for colder weather or sun parasols that shield your child from the sun. A sunshade will help keep your baby from overheating.

The best pushchair car seats come with a 5-point harness that is designed to restrain your child at their hips and shoulders, the most rigid points on their body. This is a safest and most secure way of securing your child in their pushchair. You should only use pushchair car seats that have this type of safety harness. Be on the lookout for new harnesses with one-pull systems like that found on the Cybex Priam, which allows you to precisely fit your child's seat belt using just the pull of a strap, guaranteeing a secure and safe fit.

Stores

It's not a secret that a pushchair car seat can be pretty bulky. Therefore the best way to make sure you have enough space is to opt for one that has a large storage basket, parent tray and child seat cup holders. This will let you keep your essentials at the ready when you're on the go.

You can also look for a model that has a built-in weather canopy to shield your child from the elements. Other useful features include locking front wheels for greater maneuverability as well as a tray for the parent that is easy to access, and an auto-standing fold.

The most convenient and secure The ultimate in convenience and safety, a Doona travel system bundle allows you to seamlessly move your infant from the car seat to the pushchair without disturbing them. The Doona ISOFIX base attaches to the car seat's belt buckle and then clicks on to the pushchair frame. This innovative system means you can be ready to go from birth, making it easier to run your daily running errands.

Egg3 is another option. This award-winning 3-in-1 travel system lets you to put your baby in a car seat when they are born and then change them into the pushchair when they reach the proper age. This system is ideal for those who do not have the luxury of a car, as it includes car seat adaptors that are compatible with all major brands.

The egg3 is able to be converted into a tandem with the egg2/3 adaptors available when you have twins or are looking to expand your family. Featuring smart SensorSafe technology the egg car seat will alert you via your smartphone in real-time when there are four potentially dangerous conditions: chest clip unbuckling, temperature too hot or too cold in the carrier, or your baby being seated for too long.

Consider investing in a hood refresh kit or a deep cleaning service to ensure your pushchair is in great condition for your next trip. Start by vacuuming, then wipe the fabric with soapy water or sterilising water.