9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Pushchair Car Seat
What to Look For in a Pushchair Car Seat
A pushchair is an infant chair with wheels specifically designed for babies as young as 6 months old. They typically have a seat that can recline to lay flat and feature a five-point harness.
Some pushchairs can be used with a car seats to form a travel systems. This lets your child move easily from the car to the pushchair without being disturbed.
Safety
There are many safety features that you should consider when selecting the right car seat for your pushchair. It is essential that the car seat you choose is in compliance with British standards and regulations, regardless of whether it's a brand new model or a second-hand model.
Check that your pushchair is in compliance with BS 197409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003 prior to you purchase it. This will ensure that it is safe pram for newborn babies and children to ride in. This includes ensuring that it has a locking device that's secure and that the brakes are working properly.
It's important to look for a car seat that can recline to a flat, comfortable position when choosing a pushchair. This is important for newborns as research shows that babies who spend a lot of time in an upright position may experience breathing issues. This is due to the fact that their airways are impeded due to the squishy shape of the car seat and they struggle to absorb 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, since you don't have to wake your baby awake every time you want to switch modes of transportation.
Some of the best pushchair car seat models offer side impact protection as well. This is designed to lessen the impact force by providing extra padding, energy-absorbing materials and also protecting your baby's chest, shoulders and head. This kind of protection could be particularly important in the event of a side-on collision which is more risky for young babies.
Another safety feature that is beneficial is the top tether. This prevents car seats from spinning forward in the event of an accident, and can also reduce the chance of head injuries. Make sure that your pushchair has this feature as it's a legal requirement in all car seats made by coaches.
Easy of Use
A pushchair car seat is among the most commonly used baby items so it's essential to have a seat that is comfortable and convenience features. There are a variety of options available, including a cushion that is comfortable for the baby or a handlebar with an adjustable height to accommodate parents.
Some pushchairs come with a carrycot that is ideal for babies. It lets them sleep in a lie-flat position that is recommended for their health and development. As they age it is possible to have a carrycot transformed into a pushchair. The majority can be used with a car seat base.
When you are choosing a stroller, make sure you choose one that folds easily and has a compact fold, so it can be tucked away in small places or the boot of your car. Some models fold with the seat in place which makes it more convenient to use. There are a variety of brake options to choose from based on your preferences. A foot brake is ideal for everyday use, whereas an active handbrake is beneficial if you are frequently stopping and starting on traffic-filled streets. There are also jogger style pushchairs that have three wheels that can help you maintain momentum when going either uphill or downhill.
Most 'from-birth' pushchairs allow you to choose which direction the seat is facing either the direction of the parent or world facing. It is possible to change this by simply clicking the seat onto the chassis. The Doona however, is a game changer as it allows you to choose both. You can either insert the infant car seats into the Doona, Pram Bag and then recline the seat to a fully lie-flat position for babies or set it up as a stroller. It's a fantastic feature that can be used with or without the base of your vehicle and can even be used on trains and planes!
If you plan to travel frequently or use ride-share vehicles, a lightweight seat that is simple to install is a must. Make sure the base can be pushed in and out quickly, and think about purchasing an all-in-one travel system that includes all the essentials.
Style
Style is a personal choice It is possible to find something that is suitable for both parents and children. Based on your budget and preference you can pick a sleek and elegant appearance, or something that is more striking. Top brands provide a wide selection of choices and you can pick from a modern and vibrant style or traditional and modern.
You'll also need to consider the amount you're willing to invest in your pushchair car seat as it's likely to be one of the biggest baby purchases. Many parents decide to purchase a travel system that comes with the car seat and carrycot all in one package. This gives you the most convenience and comfort from birth and is perfect for families with busy schedules who need to get out and about on a regular basis.
Many twin pushchairs feature the option of lying flat, which allows newborn babies to lay on their backs. This is recommended by experts due to its benefits for lung development and spinal development. Some brands even go the extra mile and offer an advanced one-handed reclining system, allowing you to simply press the button to recline your pushchair's seat to a more comfortable sitting position.
Some models of pushchair also have footrests that can be adjusted, handlebars that are adjustable, and other features so you can adapt the model to your child's requirements. Some even come with a reversible seat, to allow your child to look at you for reassurance and bonding or go out into the world around them to explore.
Finally, some brands offer a range of accessories for pushchairs prams, including footmuffs for colder weather and sun parasols that protect your baby from the sun. A sunshade is essential as it will help to keep your baby from overheating.
The best pushchair car seats will also have a 5-point harness which is designed to hold your child at their hips and shoulders, the most rigid points of their body. This is a safest and most secure method of securing your child in their pushchair. You should only ever use pushchair car seats equipped with this type of safety harness. Look out for new harnesses with one-pull systems similar to the Cybex Priam which allow you to fit your baby's seat belt with just the release of a strap making sure it is secure and safe fit.
Storage
There's no denying that a pushchair car seat can be quite bulky. To ensure you have plenty of space, choose a car seat with large storage bins, parent tray, and cup holders for the child seat. This will ensure that you have everything you need when you are out and out and about.
You may also search for one with an built-in weather canopy that will protect your little one from the elements. Other useful features include locking front wheels for greater maneuverability, a parent tray that is easy to access and an auto-standing fold.
Doona travel systems bundles offer the most convenient and security. You can easily move your infant from their car seat to their pushchair, without disturbing him or her. The Doona ISOFIX base secures to the car seat's belt buckle, and then snaps onto the frame of the pushchair. This innovative system means you can be ready to start your journey from the moment you are born, making it easier to run your daily errands.
Another alternative is the egg3 - an award-winning, attractive 3-in-1 travel system that allows you to take your newborn in the car seat of an egg from birth, and then switch them over to the pushchair seat once they're large enough. With car seat adaptors that are compatible with the majority of major brands, this model is the best option for those who don't have an automobile.
The egg3 can be transformed into a tandem using the egg2/3 adaptors available in case you have twins or are looking to expand your family. The egg car seat is equipped with smart SensorSafe technology that will notify you in real time via your smartphone if there are four potential dangers. These include sudden chest clip unbucklings, temperatures too cold or hot in the carrier, or your baby sitting for too long.
If you're looking to ensure your pushchair is in top condition for the next time you take it out, think about purchasing an 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.