Choosing a Car Seat Pram
The right car seat pram will be one of the most important decisions new parents make. You'll want a product that is easy to use and is compatible with your lifestyle.
Car seats and prams typically only fit for infants (new-born - 1 year) so you'll need to buy a different stroller later on.
Comfort
Car seat prams need to be comfortable for both the baby and the parent to ensure they feel comfortable on the road. It is essential to have plenty of cushioning on the seat and an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted to provide a snug fit. Some models have shade canopy that's easy to use and can be stowed in a pockets to ensure your baby's safety. It is also crucial that the pram is easy to use using a single strap attachment, and that it easily detaches from the base to help you save time and effort.
It is also crucial that the pram is easy to clean. This is especially important when it is made of fabric that can be washed in the machine. Our top picks, like the Mountain Buggy Nano, feature seats that can be removed to clean. This is a great feature for parents who don't have lots of time to spend tinkering with their equipment.
Graco 4Ever DLX 3 in 1 Graco Extend2Fit and Graco Extend2Fit DLX are some of the car seats that are easy with LATCH to install. They have average crash test scores and are not recommended for those who want the highest level of safety.
Other seats, such as the Clek Liing and Chicco Keyfit 35, have better-than-average crash test sensor results and are easier to install with LATCH. These seats are more expensive than the top-performing seats however they offer the best comfort and quality to offset the higher price.
The Doona infant seat and latch base is an additional option that is rated with superior crash test results, and is a breeze to use in both a stroller and a car. The Doona model that is highly rated is a favorite of many families, with 90 percent of its Amazon reviews being five stars. It is difficult to use without the base because it requires a two-step process of putting the base in the base and then securing it to the bottom of the carrier that some parents overlook or even skip (always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid injury).
If you plan to use your car seat primarily in taxis, look for a model that is able to attach easily and quickly to its base so that you can switch from stroller to car and back in just a few seconds. The Mountain Buggy Nano, for example is compatible with all of the infant car seats we tested and also works with the Cosco Scenera NEXT, making it ideal for Uber.
Flexibility
A car seat pram is essential for every parent. They're designed to blend all the benefits of a stroller, along with the safety and convenience of a car seat. They're extremely versatile, and the best option for jogging, walking, or running around town.
These combos can be transformed from car seat to pram in a matter of seconds which allows you to effortlessly leave the car without disturbing your child. It's a huge advantage for parents who often use taxis or ride-hailing apps in order to move around, as it allows you to keep going instead of having to wake your baby each time you need to jump in or out.
A lot of these car seat prams are facing the parent or the world. This is a great choice for families who will be spending a lot of time outside, particularly when the weather is nice. You can watch your baby and also chat with them or sing to them.
There are a myriad of car seat prams available so you can choose one that best suits your needs. Some are light and easy to push, and others come with extra features like big sunshades or easy-to-access baskets. Some even have a recline seat to allow your child to lie flat in a manner that is secure and comfortable.
If you're looking for something super simple and easy to use then check out the Doona infant car seat and latch base. It's the only complete travel system that's a car seat and pram in one, making it so much easier to navigate the busy streets without worrying about your baby. It also has an easy-to-use click-in/click-out mechanism that is ready to use right out of the box.
Safety
The car seat is among the best investments you can make for your child, since it protects them when travelling. There are a number of security features to take into consideration when selecting the right car seat.
A carrycot attached to the chassis of a pram allows your baby to lay flat. This is great for lung and spine development. Also, you should ensure that your car seat comes with a five-point system. This consists of two straps that are for the shoulders and two others that connect the hips. Check that your car seat is equipped with a front adjustment to tighten the harness, and a maximum recline of 45 degrees to prevent the suffocation.
Brands may have different weight and height limits for their infant car seats. Be sure that your child meets these specifications and also those of the stroller. If you're purchasing a travel system, make sure the car seat and stroller fit seamlessly into one another and conform to the federal standards for motor vehicles, recommends Stanton.
If you're unsure of how to install your car seat, consult an experienced child safety technician at a hospital or fire department. They'll be equipped to provide specific instructions and answer any questions you may have.
You'll have to decide if your car seat for your child to come with a top tether which is a tether connecting the seat to the hook that is located in the back seat or trunk of the vehicle. The tether will stop the head of your child from bouncing forward during an accident. This decreases the chance of sustaining head injuries.
When you are choosing a car seat pram, make sure the car seat and base fit together snugly and that the locking mechanisms are easy to operate using just one hand. Also, ensure that you lock the chassis of your pram before folding it. This will prevent you from accidentally folding the pram while your child is still in the seat.
Storage
A car seat is a convenient method of transporting your child. It also allows you to keep your baby warm and close to you, making it easier to feed them and calm them when needed. However, these handy pieces of equipment aren't cheap, and they can be difficult to store. If you're considering a car seat pram take into consideration the cost of storing it.
Storing a car seat in a place that is free of insects and moisture is the best choice. The back of a closet is ideal, but if this isn't possible, look for an area within your home that has good ventilation and ample room to move around. A garage or finished attic is another alternative. Make sure to store your car seat in a plastic bag or something similar while it's not being used, and put it away from areas where rodents commonly hide.
If you intend to use your car seat pram as baby carrier, be sure to store all the accessories that were included with it. Included in this are infant inserts, strap pads and any other bases you might have. You might also want to store stroller adaptors that fit the car seat in this same space. more info This will allow you to easily reinstall the car seat at a later time.
When you're ready to stow your car seat, inspect it for signs of wear and tear before putting it away. If you notice cracks in the base, tears or stains in the fabric, or problems with the buckle or latch systems, it's time to buy an entirely new one.
Baby carriers and strollers can provide the same convenience of car seats but are generally used for older infants. Some of them include frame backpack carriers, hip carriers, mei tais, or slings. If you're planning to use a carrier for your baby select one that allows you to recline the seat so that your baby can lie flat when they aren't asleep.
A travel system includes a car seat, and stroller. The baby seat snaps into the base, which is then kept in your car. This lets you move your baby from your car to the stroller with little or no effort and then back when you're done for a day out and about.