What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat

A pushchair is a baby chair with wheels made for babies as young as 6 months. They often feature an adjustable seat that can recline and lie flat, and have a five point harness.

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

Safety

There are many essential safety features to look for in a 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 essential British standards and requirements.

Check if your pushchair complies with BS 749/1996 or BS 1888:2003. This will guarantee that it's safe for babies and children to ride in. This includes making sure it has an locking device that is secure and that the brakes work well.

It is important to look for an automobile seat that can recline into a flat position when choosing a pushchair. This is particularly important for infants, since research has shown that young infants who spend a lot of time in a straight position may have difficulty breathing. This is due to the fact that their airways become restricted by the scrunched up design of the car seat, and they struggle to take in oxygen.

You can also choose a travel system that comes with a baby car-seat that fits perfectly into the frame of your stroller. This makes the transition between the stroller and car simpler, as you won't have to wake your baby up each time you need to switch modes of transportation.

Some of the best pushchair car seat models offer side impact protection too. This is designed to decrease the force of a collision by providing extra padding and energy-absorbing material to protect your baby's shoulders, head and chest. This type of protection can be crucial in the case of a side-on collision which is a greater risk for infants.

A top tether strap is another useful safety feature to look out for because it prevents the car seat from swaying forward in an accident, and can reduce the risk of head injury. This is a legal requirement on all car seats that are coach-built.

Ease of Use

A pushchair car seat is among the most used baby products therefore it's crucial to have a seat that is comfortable and convenience features. It doesn't matter if it's a comfortable cushion for the baby's seat or a handlebar that can be adjusted for parents, there are plenty of accessories to choose from!

Some pushchairs include a carrycot that is ideal for infants. It allows them to rest in a reclining position, which is recommended for their health and development. A carrycot can be exchanged for a pushchair seat when they're older. Most can work safely with an automobile seat base as well.

Choose a model that folds quickly and compactly to fit into small spaces or in the boot of your vehicle. Some models fold with the seat tucked in making it much easier to use. A brake is also a must-have and there are a variety of options based on your needs and lifestyle. A foot brake is great for everyday use, and an active hand brake can be useful for those who are frequently stopping and starting on busy roads. There are also jogger style pushchairs that have three wheels which can help you keep the momentum while going uphill or downhill.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from-birth' let you choose which direction the seat faces either the direction of the parent facing pushchair or facing the world. It is possible to change this by simply pressing the seat onto the chassis. The Doona, however is a game changer because it allows you to choose both. You can either click the infant car seats into the Doona, and then recline the seat to a lying position for infants or use it as stroller. This feature is remarkable because it works without or with the base of your car and can be used on trains and planes!

If you intend to travel frequently or use ride-share cars A lightweight seat that is simple to install is essential. Make sure that the base can be clicked in and out quickly and look into a travel system bundle which includes all the essentials.

Style

Style is a personal choice and you can find something that will suit both parents and infants. You can opt for a sleek, sophisticated look or something more striking and exciting, based on your personal preferences and budget. There are lots of options available from top brands, so whether you're looking for something timeless and modern or contemporary and vibrant, you'll be sure to find it.

It is also important to consider the amount you're willing to spend on your pushchair car seat as it will probably be one of the biggest baby purchases. Many parents decide to buy a travel system which includes both a car seat as well as the carrycot. This gives you the most comfort and convenience from the moment of birth and is ideal for families with busy schedules who require to be out and often.

Many pushchairs feature a lie-flat feature that allows newborn babies to lay on their backs. 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 reclining system that allows you to press a button to recline the seat of your pushchair to more comfortable posture.

Some models of pushchair also come with adjustable handlebars, footrests and other features so that you can tailor them to your child's needs. Some models even have a reversible seat so that your baby can face you for reassurance and bonding or can face the world to explore their surroundings.

Finally, some brands provide a variety of accessories for pushchairs, including the footmuffs that are ideal for colder weather as well as sun parasols to shield your little one from the sun. A sunshade is essential as it will help to keep your baby from overheating.

The best pushchair car seats come with a five-point harness which is designed to restrain your child's shoulders and hips, the most rigid points on their body. This is the safest and most secure way of restraining your child in their pushchair and you should only ever use folding pushchair car seats that are fitted with this type of safety harness. There are many new one-pull systems, like the Cybex foldable pram that permit you to precisely fit your baby's seatbelt with just a single pull. This will ensure a safe and secure fitting.

Storage

It's a fact that a pushchair car seat can be quite bulky. In this regard the best method to ensure you have enough space is to opt for one with an ample storage basket along with a tray for the parents and child seat cup holders. This will allow you to keep your essentials at fingertips when you're traveling.

You could also consider one with an built-in weather canopy that will ensure your child's safety from the elements. Other handy features include locking swivel front wheels to provide you with more maneuverability, an easy-access parent tray and a self-standing fold so it's easy to store when not in use.

The ultimate in convenience and security The ultimate in convenience and safety, a Doona travel system bundle lets you to effortlessly transfer your child from the car seat to the pushchair without causing any disturbance. The Doona ISOFIX base is secured to the vehicle's car seat belt buckle, then snaps onto the frame of the pushchair. This revolutionary system means you'll be ready start your journey from the moment you are born, making it easier to run your daily running errands.

Egg3 is another alternative. This award-winning 3-in-1 travel system allows you to put your infant in a car seat as they are born. You can then change them into the pushchair when they reach the appropriate age. This system is perfect for those without a car, as it comes with car seat adaptors that are compatible with all major brands.

If you're looking to expand your family or have twins, the egg3 offers the ability to be converted into a tandem using the optional egg2/3 tandem adaptors. With its smart SensorSafe technology the egg car seat will notify you via your phone in real-time when there are any of the following conditions: chest clip unbuckling temperatures that are too cold or hot in the carrier, or your baby being in a seated position for too long.

Consider purchasing a rejuvenation kit for your hood or a deep cleaning service to ensure that your pushchair is in top condition for your next journey. Start by vacuuming, then wipe the fabric with warm soapy or sterilising water.