Choosing a Car Seat Pram
Choosing the right car seat pram is among the most important decisions new parents make. You'll want a product that is easy to use and fits your lifestyle.
Car seat/pram combos generally only work for infants (new-born 1-year old) therefore you'll need to purchase a new stroller after that.
Comfort
Car seat prams should be comfortable for both baby and parent to ensure they feel at ease on the road. It is essential to have plenty of padding on the seat as well as the handlebar can be adjusted to ensure an appropriate fit. Some models also have an attractive shade canopy and stow pockets to keep your newborn cozy. The pram should be simple to use, with a strap that can be attached with one hand, and easily removed from the base.
It is also crucial that the pram is easy to clean. This is especially important when the fabric is machine washed. A few of our top picks, like the Mountain Buggy Nano have a removable fabric that can be cleaned. This is a great option for parents who are busy and don't have time to fuss with their gear.
Graco 4Ever DLX and Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 and Graco Extend2Fit DLX are some of the car seats that are relatively easy with LATCH to install. However, they only have average crash test analysis scores and aren't the best options for those looking for the highest safety considerations.
Other seats, like the Clek Keyfit 35 and Clek Liing, offer better than average crash test sensor results, and are easier to install using LATCH. These seats are more expensive than seats with top performance however they offer superior comfort and quality to make up for the higher cost.
Another option that offers superior crash test results and is simple to install in a car and stroller is the Doona infant car seat and latch base. It is a popular choice for many families, with 90 percent of its Amazon reviews being five stars. It can be a bit difficult to use without the base, because it requires a two-step process of putting the base in place and then strapping over the bottom of the carrier and some parents might forget to do or intentionally ignore (always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid injury).
If you plan on using your car seat for taxis, select one with a base that can attach quickly and easily to the car seat. This will allow you to switch from stroller to car in seconds. The Mountain Buggy Nano is compatible with all of the infant car seat models we tested and is compatible with Cosco Scenera NEXT. This makes it ideal for Uber.
Flexibility
A car seat pram is a must for every parent. They're designed to combine all the benefits of a stroller along with the security and convenience of a car seat. They're extremely versatile, and the best option for walking or jogging around the town.
These combos can be transformed from a car seat to a pram in just a few 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 get about as it means you can just keep on going instead of waking your baby every time you need to get in or out.
A lot of these car seat prams are facing the parent or the world. This is a great option for families who spend a significant amount of time outdoors, particularly when the weather is pleasant. You can keep an eye on your child and talk with them or sing to them.
There are a myriad of types of car seat prams available so you can choose the one that's right for your lifestyle. Some are light and easy to push, whereas others come with extra features like big sunshades or baskets that are easy to access. Some even have a recline seat, allowing your baby to lie-flat in a way that's secure and comfortable.
Doona infant car seats and latch bases are a great option when you're looking for something simple and simple to use. It's also the first system that combines a car seat with a pram, making it easier to navigate the busy roads without worrying about your child. Plus, it has a secure click-in/click out mechanism that's ready to go right out of the box.
Safety
Car seats are one of the most important investment you can make for your baby because they protect them when they travel. Depending on the kind of car seat pram you choose there are many different safety features you might be looking for.
A carrycot attached to a pram chassis will allow your baby to lie flat. This is beneficial for lung and spine development. Also, you should make sure that your car seat is fitted with a five-point system. This is comprised of two straps that are for the shoulders and two others that connect the hips. It is also important to ensure that your car seat has an adjustment on the front to help you tighten the harness and a maximum recline angle of 45 degrees to prevent your baby from being suffocated.
Brands will have different weight and height limits for their infant car seats. Make sure that your child's height and weight are in line with these standards as well as those of the stroller. Stanton recommends that when purchasing a travel set the car seat and stroller should connect seamlessly and be in compliance read more with the federal motor vehicle safety standards.
If you're unsure of how to properly install your car seat, ask an experienced child safety technician in a hospital or fire department. They can provide precise instructions and answer any questions that you may have.
You'll have to decide if you would like your child's car seat to come with a top tether which is a tether connecting the seat to the hook in the trunk or back seat of the vehicle. The tether can prevent your child's head from bouncing forward during a crash, thereby reducing the chances of head trauma.
If you are choosing a car-seat pram, ensure that the car seat and the base are able to be slid in together and the locking device is easy to operate with just one hand. Always lock the chassis before folding your pram. This will stop you from folding the pram while your child is still in the seat.
Stores
A car seat can be a convenient method of transporting a child. You can also keep your baby close to you so that you can feed and soothe them easily when needed. However, these handy items aren't cheap, and they can be difficult to store. If you're thinking of purchasing a car seat pram, take into consideration the cost of storage.
Stowing a car seat in a spot that is free of moisture and pests is the best option. The back of a closet is the ideal, but if this isn't possible, look for an area of your home that has good ventilation and ample room to move around. Another option is a garage, or a finished attic. Keep your car seat in plastic bags or similar containers when not in use. Also keep it out of places where rodents hide.
If you plan on using your car seat pram as baby carrier, be sure you keep all the additional parts that came with it. Included are infant inserts, strap pads and any additional bases you have. It is also possible to store stroller adaptors that fit the car seat in this same area. This will make it easier to reinstall the car seat at a later date.
Check for signs of wear before you stow away your car seat. If you notice cracks in the base, tears or stains in the fabric, or problems with the latch or buckle systems, it could be time to buy an entirely new one.
A baby carrier or stroller can offer the same functionality as a car seat pram however, they're usually used for older infants. Some of these include frame backpack carriers, hip carriers, slings, or mei tais. If you're considering using a carrier for your baby, choose one that lets you recline the seat so that your baby can lay flat when they're not asleep.
A travel system is both a car seat, and stroller. The baby seat snaps onto the base, which is then kept in your car. You can easily transfer your baby from the car to the stroller and return after you're done.