What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat

A pushchair is a type of chair with wheels that is designed for infants from 6 months. They usually have an adjustable seat that can recline and lie flat, and feature a five-point harness.

Some pushchairs can be used from birth by incorporating the appropriate carrycot or car seat to create an entire travel system. This lets your child move easily from the car to the pushchair without being distracted.

Safety

There are a number of essential safety features to look for in a pushchair car seat. Whether you're considering a brand new or second-hand model it's crucial to make sure that the model you choose is in line with the necessary British standards and regulations.

Make sure that your pushchair is compliant with BS 7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003 prior to you buy it. This will ensure it's safe for babies and children to ride in. This includes ensuring that it's equipped with a secure locking device and that the brakes are working properly (check them regularly).

It's worth looking for car seats that recline to a flat position when you choose a stroller. This is important for newborns because research has shown that babies who spend a significant amount of time in an upright position can experience breathing problems. The car seat's scrunched-up shape blocks their airways, causing them to struggle to breathe.

Alternatively, you can opt for a baby car seat that clicks seamlessly onto the chassis of your stroller 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 your baby each when you switch modes of transport.

Some of the top pushchair car seat models offer side impact protection, too. This is designed to decrease the force of a crash by offering extra padding, energy-absorbing materials and protecting your baby's shoulders, chest, and head. This kind of protection could be particularly important in the case of a side collision which is a greater risk for infants.

A top tether strap is another important security feature to search for, as this prevents the car seat from moving forward in an accident, and can reduce the chance of head strikes. Make sure your child's pushchair is equipped with this feature since it's a legal requirement for all car seats made by coaches.

Easy of Use

A pushchair car seat is among the most used baby products so it's essential that it has good comfort and convenience features. If it's a comfy cushion for the baby's seat or an adjustable handlebar for parents, there are also many accessories to pick from too!

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

When choosing a pushchair, look for one that folds easily and is compact in its fold, so it can be tucked away into small places or the boot of your car. Some models fold with the seat still attached, making them much more user-friendly. A brake is also essential and there are many options to choose from based on your preferences. A foot brake is ideal for everyday use, whereas an active handbrake is useful for those who are constantly stopping and beginning your journey on busy streets. There are also jogger-style pushchairs that have three wheels that can help you maintain momentum when going either uphill or downhill.

Most pushchairs that are "from birth" will allow you to select which direction they face either towards the parent or facing the world, and this can be changed by putting the seat into the chassis. However the Doona is an innovative product that takes this to the next 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 sit it upright as a stroller. This feature is amazing because it works without or with a base in your car. It is also used on planes and trains!

If you intend to travel frequently or use ride-share vehicles A lightweight seat that is simple to install is essential. Make sure the base can be easily clicked into and out. Also, consider an all-in-one travel system that includes all your essentials.

Style

The style of a pushchair is a personal preference and it's easy to find a style that is suitable for both parent and baby. You can opt for a sleek, sophisticated look or something more eye-catching and fun, based on your taste and budget. There are a variety of choices that are available from top brands so whether you're looking for something classic and contemporary or modern and colourful you'll be sure to find it.

You'll have to think about how much you're willing to spend on a pushchair car seat, as it is likely to be the largest baby purchase. Many parents decide to buy a travel system that has the car seat and a carrycot. This is the ultimate in comfort and convenience for families that are always traveling.

Many pushchairs include the option of a lie-flat seat, allowing newborn babies to sleep in a fully flat position that is recommended by experts to help with spinal and lung 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 the seat of your pushchair for a more comfortable and comfortable position.

Certain models come with adjustable footrests, handlebars and other features that allow you to tailor them for your child's growing needs. Some models are reclined chair so that your child can face you to bond with and be reassured or face the world for exploration.

Some brands also offer a range of accessories for pushchairs, including the footmuffs that are ideal for colder weather as well as sun parasols that protect your baby from the sun. A sunshade can prevent your baby from overheating.

The best pushchair car seat will also come with five-point harness that is designed to hold the child at their hips, shoulders, and other rigid points on their body. This is the most secure method to secure your child in a pushchair. You should only use pushchair car seat that have this type of safety harness. Check out new one-pull harness systems similar to the Cybex Priam which allow you to fit your child's seat belt using just the pulling of a strap, guaranteeing a secure and safe fit.

Storage

There's no denying that a car seat for a child can be quite bulky. To ensure that you have plenty of room make sure you choose an infant car seat that has large storage bins, parent tray, and child seat cupholders. This will help keep all your essentials at hand when you are out and out and about.

Look for models with a built-in canopy to protect your child from the elements. Other useful features include lockable swivel front wheels to provide you with more maneuverability and a parent tray that is easy to access and a self-standing fold, so it's easy to store away when not in use.

The ultimate in convenience and safety The ultimate in convenience and safety, a Doona travel system bundle lets you to seamlessly move your child from the car seat to the pushchair without disturbing them. The Doona ISOFIX Base is attached to the belt buckle of the car seat, and then snaps onto the pushchair frame. This revolutionary system allows you to be prepared from birth and cut down in running pushchair chores.

The egg3 is another option. This award-winning 3-in-1 travel system lets you to put your infant in a car seat at the time they are born and then change them into a pushchair unit once they reach the appropriate age. This is a great option for those who do not have a car, as it includes car seat adaptors compatible with all major brands.

If you are expanding your family or have twins, the egg3 has the versatility to convert to a tandem using the optional egg2/3 tandem adaptors. Featuring smart SensorSafe technology, the egg car seat will notify you via your phone in real-time if there are 4 potentially unsafe conditions: chest clip not buckled, temperature too hot or too cold in the carrier or your baby is in a seated position for too long.

If you want to ensure that your pushchair is in good condition for the next time you take it out, think about investing in an hood fabric refresh kit or a deep clean service. Start by vacuuming and then wiping down with warm soapy water or gentle sterilizing fluid, making sure to dry the fabric in the sun.