What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat

A pushchair is a type of chair on wheels specifically designed for infants up to 6 months. They typically have seats that recline to lie flat and come with a five-point harness.

Some pushchairs can be used from birth by adding a compatible car seat or carrycot to create an entire travel system. This allows your baby to easily move from car to pushchair without causing any disturbance.

Safety

There are several important safety features you should look for in a car seat. No matter if you're looking at a new or second-hand model it's crucial to make sure that the double pushchair you select meets the required British standards and regulations.

Check if your pushchair complies with BS 197409/1996 or BS 1888:2003. This will ensure that it is safe for babies and children to travel in. This includes ensuring it has a locking device that's secure and the brakes function properly.

It's important to look for an automobile seat that can recline into a flat position when you are choosing a pushchair. This is especially important for infants, since research has proven that babies who spend a lot of time in a straight position can have difficulty breathing. The car seat's wavy shape restricts 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 car and stroller a lot easier, as you won't have to wake your baby up every time you need to switch modes of transportation.

A few of the top car seats for pushchairs offer side impact protection as well. This is designed to lessen the force of a crash by offering extra padding, energy-absorbing materials and also protecting your baby's shoulders, chest and head. This type of protection is especially important in the event collisions with the sides that could be fatal for infants.

Another safety feature that is beneficial is a top tether. This prevents the car seats from whirling forward during an accident and can reduce the risk of head collisions. Make sure your child's pushchair newborn comes with this, as it is a legal requirement for all car seats that are coach-built.

Easy of Use

A car seat for a pushchair is one of the most used baby products 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 also plenty of accessories to choose from too!

Some pushchairs come with a carrycot that is ideal for newborns. It lets them sleep in a lie-flat position that is recommended for their health and development. A carrycot can be exchanged for a pushchair seat when they're older and most can work safely with an automobile seat base as well.

When selecting a pushchair look for one that folds easily and has a compact fold so it can fit in tight places or the boot of your car. Some models even fold with the seat attached, making them easier to use. A brake is an essential item and there are several different options based on your needs and lifestyle. A foot brake is ideal for daily use, and an active handbrake can be useful for those who are constantly stopping and beginning your journey on traffic-filled streets. There are also jogger type pushchairs that have three wheels that help you maintain the momentum when you go uphill or downhill.

Most 'from birth' pushchairs will let you choose which direction they face either facing the parent or world facing and this can be changed by clicking the seat into the chassis. However, the Doona is a game changer that takes this to the next level with the option of both. You can choose to click the infant car seats into the Doona and then recline the seat into a lying position for infants or set it up as a stroller. This feature is amazing because it can work with or without a base in your car and can be used on planes and trains!

If you intend to travel frequently or ride-share vehicles, a lightweight seat that is simple to install is essential. Make sure that the base can be clicked in and out quickly and think about purchasing a travel system bundle which includes all the essentials.

Style

Style is a personal preference, and you can find something that is suitable for both parents and infants. You can choose sleek, sophisticated design or something more striking and fun, depending on your personal preferences and budget. There are lots of options that are available from top brands so whether you want something timeless and modern or vibrant and modern, you'll find it.

You'll have to think about how much money you're willing spend on a pushchair car seat, as it will probably be your biggest baby purchase. Many parents opt to purchase a travel system that comes with the car seat and carrycot in the all-in-one package. This is the best in comfort and convenience for families that are constantly on the go.

Many pushchairs include the option of a lie-flat seat, allowing newborn babies to rest in a flat position, which is suggested by experts to help with spinal and lung development. Some brands go above and beyond by offering a premium hand recline system that allows you to press a single button to recline the seat of your pushchair to an even more comfortable position.

Certain models of pushchairs come with footrests that can be adjusted, handlebars that are adjustable, and other features so you can adapt them to your child's needs. Some even have a reversible seat so that your baby can face you for reassurance and bonding or go out into the world around them to explore.

Some brands also offer a variety of accessories for pushchairs, including footmuffs for colder weather and sun parasols that protect your child from the sun. A sunshade can help prevent your baby from overheating.

The most effective car seats for pushchairs pushchairs come with a 5-point harness which is designed to restrain your child at their hips and shoulders, which are the most rigid parts of their body. This is the most secure and most secure way to restrain your child's body in their pushchair. You should only use car seats for pushchairs equipped with this type of safety harness. Look out for new harnesses that have a one-pull mechanism like the one found on the Cybex Priam that allow you to precisely fit your child's seat belt with just the pull of a strap, making sure it is secure and safe fit.

Stores

It's not a secret that a car seat for a child can be pretty bulky. To ensure that you have enough space, choose car seats with an ample storage bin, parent tray, and child seat cupholders. This will ensure that you have everything you need while you are out and about.

Look for models with a built-in canopy to shield your child from the weather. Other helpful features include locking front wheels that allow for greater maneuverability and a tray for parents that is easy to access, and self-standing fold.

Doona travel systems bundles provide the ultimate in convenience and security. It is easy to transfer your child from their car seat to their pushchair, without having to disturb them. The Doona ISOFIX base is secured to the vehicle's car seat belt buckle, and then snaps on to the pushchair frame. This innovative system means you can be ready to go right from birth, thereby and save time on daily running errands.

Another alternative is the egg3 an award-winning, attractive 3-in-1 travel system that allows you to put your baby in the car seat of an egg from birth, and then switch them over to the pushchair seat when they're large enough. With adaptors for car seats that are compatible with most major brands, this model is a great option for those who don't own cars.

If you are expanding your family or have twins, the egg3 offers the ability to be converted into a tandem using the egg2/3 tandem adaptors that are available. With its smart SensorSafe technology, the egg car seat will alert you via your phone in real-time when there are 4 potentially unsafe conditions - unexpected chest clip not buckled the chest clip, a temperature that is too hot or too cold in the car seat or your baby is sitting for too long.

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