What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat

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

Some pushchairs are able to be used from the time of birth, by incorporating the appropriate car seat or carrycot to create a travel system. This allows your baby to effortlessly move from car to pushchair without disturbing them.

Safety

There are many essential safety features to be looking for in a pushchair car seat. It is essential that the car seat you choose is in compliance with British standards and prams for sale regulations, regardless of whether it’s a brand new model or a used one.

Make sure that your pushchair is in compliance with BS 7409/1996 or BS 1888:2003. This will ensure that it’s safe for babies and children to ride in. This includes ensuring that it’s equipped with an effective locking device and that the brakes work well (check them frequently).

It is worth looking for an automobile seat that can recline to a flat, comfortable position when you choose a stroller. This is crucial for infants because research has shown that babies who spend a large amount of time in a seated position can have breathing problems. The car seat’s curly shape restricts their airways, causing them to struggle to breathe.

You can also opt for a travel system that comes with a baby car-seat that fits seamlessly into the chassis of your stroller. This allows the transition between car and twin stroller a lot simpler, since you don’t need to wake your baby awake every time you want to switch modes of transport.

Some of the top pushchair car seat models offer side impact protection, too. This is designed to lessen the force of a crash by offering extra padding, energy-absorbing material and protecting your baby’s chest, shoulders and head. This type of protection is especially important in the event of collisions with the sides that could be dangerous for babies.

A top tether strap is an additional important safety feature to look out for to prevent the car seat from whipping forward in an accident and can reduce the risk of head strikes. Make sure that your pushchair comes with this since it is a legal requirement for all car seats made by coaches.

User-Friendliness

A pushchair car seat is one of the most frequently used baby products so it’s important to ensure it comes with good comfort and convenience features. There are a variety of options available, including a cushion that is comfortable for the baby or a handlebar that can be adjusted to suit parents’ needs.

Some pushchairs come with a carrycot that is ideal for infants. It lets them rest in a reclining position that is recommended for their health and development. A carrycot is a great alternative for a pushchair seat when they’re older and most can work safely with the base of a car seat too.

When choosing a pushchair, make sure you choose one that folds easily and is able to fold, so it can be tucked away in small places or the boot of your car. Some models fold with the seat attached, making them much easier to use. A brake is a must-have and there are many options based on your needs and lifestyle. A foot brake is suitable for everyday use, while an active handbrake is beneficial if you are frequently stopping and beginning your journey on busy streets. There are also jogger-style pushchairs that have three wheels that help you maintain the momentum when you go either uphill or downhill.

The majority of pushchairs that are ‘from birth’ will let you choose which direction they face either facing the parent or facing the world and this can be changed by pressing the seat into the chassis. The Doona however, is a game changer as it allows you to choose both. You can plug the infant car seat into the Doona and then set it upright as stroller, or recline it to a full lying flat position for infants. It’s an incredible feature that works with or without the base inside your vehicle and can even be utilized on trains and planes!

If you plan to travel frequently or use ride-share cars A light seat that is easy to put in is essential. Make sure the base can be easily clicked in and out. Also, think about a travel system package that includes all your essentials.

Style

A pushchair’s style is a personal preference and it’s easy to find one that will suit both parents and children. You can go for an elegant, sleek look or something more striking and fun, based on your preferences and budget. Top brands offer a broad range of options, so you can choose from something modern and colourful or classic and contemporary.

You’ll also need to consider the amount you’re willing to spend on your pushchair car seat as it will probably be one of your biggest baby purchases. Many parents decide to purchase an entire travel system that includes the car seat and carrycot in all-in-one package. This provides the ultimate convenience and comfort right from the beginning and is ideal for families with busy schedules who need to get out and out and.

Many pushchairs have the option of lying flat, which allows newborn babies to sleep 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 above and beyond by incorporating a premium hand recline system that allows you to simply push a button to recline the seat of your pushchair to a more comfy position.

Some models have adjustable footrests, handlebars and other features that let you customize them for your child’s growing needs. Some models are reclined chair so that your child can either face you to connect and reassure them or face the world for exploration.

Certain brands also provide accessories for pushchairs, such as socks for colder weather, or sun parasols that shield your child from the sun. A sunshade can help prevent your baby from overheating.

The best pushchair car seats come with a 5-point harness which is designed to restrain your child’s hips and shoulders, which are the most rigid points of their body. This is the safest and secure method to restrain your child’s body in their pushchair. You should only ever use pushchair car seats that have this type of safety harness. Look out for new one-pull harness systems similar to the Cybex Priam that allow you to precisely fit your child’s seat belt with just the pulling of a strap, making sure it is secure and safe fit.

Storage

It’s a fact that a pushchair car seat can be quite bulky. Therefore, the best way to make sure you have enough space is to opt for one that has large storage baskets as well as a tray for parents and cup holders for your child’s seat. This will allow you to keep everything you need when you’re out and about.

Look for models with a built-in canopy to protect your child from the weather. Other useful features include lockable swivel wheels on the front to allow for greater maneuverability, an easy-access parent tray and a self-standing fold so it’s super easy to store away when not in use.

Doona travel systems bundles offer the best in convenience and security. You can easily move your child from their car seat to their pushchair without disturbing him or her. The Doona ISOFIX base attaches to the vehicle’s car seat belt buckle and then clicks on to the pushchair frame. This innovative system means you can be ready to start your journey from the moment you are born, and save time on daily tasks.

The egg3 is another option. This award-winning 3-in-1 travel system lets you to place your newborn in a car seat when they are born, and switch them to an infant pushchair once they reach the right age. This is a great option for those who don’t have the luxury of a car, as it includes car seat adaptors compatible with all major brands.

If you’re looking to expand your family or have twins, the egg3 comes with the versatility to convert to tandem using the optional egg2/3 tandem adaptors. The egg car seat features an intelligent SensorSafe technology that alerts you in real time via your smartphone in case of four possible dangers. This includes unexpected chest clip unbucklings, temperature too cold or warm in the car seat or your child being in the carrier for too long.

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