Choosing a Car Seat Pram
The right car seat pram will be one of the most important decisions new parents make. You'll want one that's simple to use and fits your lifestyle.
The combination car seat/pram is usually only suitable for infants (newborns - 1 year old) Therefore, you will need to buy another stroller.
Comfort
Both the baby and the parent must feel comfortable in the car seat pram. This requires plenty of padding for the seat and a movable handlebar to allow for a snug fit that is secure. Some models also have a smart shade canopy and pockets to keep your newborn cozy. It is also important that the pram is simple to use with a one-handed strap attachment and can be easily removed from the base to help you save time and effort.
It is also crucial that the pram is easy to clean. This is particularly true when it is made of fabric that is machine washable. A few of our top picks, such as the Mountain Buggy Nano, feature a removable fabric seat to clean. This is a great feature for parents who don't have lots of time for fussing with their gear.
Graco 4Ever DLX 3 in 1 Graco Extend2Fit and the Graco Extend2Fit DLX are a few car seats that are easy with LATCH to install. However, they only have average crash test analysis scores and aren't the best options for those seeking the highest security standards.
Other seats, like the Clek Keyfit 35 and Clek Liing, show better than average crash test sensor results, and are easier to install with LATCH. They are a bit more expensive than other seats that are top-performing, but they offer superior quality and comfort that offset this higher cost.
Another option that provides superior crash test results and is easy to install in the stroller and car is the Doona infant car seat and latch base. The Doona model is highly evaluated by Amazon customers, with 90% of them giving five stars. It is difficult to use without the base as it requires a two-step procedure of pressing the base into place, and then strapping it over the bottom part of the carrier that some parents overlook or even ignore (always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid injury).
If you intend to use your car seat for taxis, select one with a base you can attach quickly and easily to the car seat. This will allow you to switch between strollers and cars in seconds. The Mountain Buggy Nano is compatible with all of the infant car seats we tested and works with Cosco Scenera NEXT. This makes it perfect for Uber.
Flexibility
Car seat prams are an essential item for any parent. They combine the benefits of both a stroller and car seats. They're extremely versatile, and the best option for jogging or walking around town.
These combos can be transformed from a car seat to a pram in a matter of seconds and allow you to quickly get out of the car without disturbing your child. This is a huge benefit for parents who use ride-hailing services or taxis to travel. You can continue to travel without having to wake your baby each when you leave or enter the vehicle.
Another benefit is that a lot of these car seat prams can be configured to be used in either a parent facing or facing the world. This is a great option for families who will be spending a lot of time outside, particularly when the weather is good. The idea of having your child face you while you walk will help you keep an eye on them. It will also allow you to talk or sing to them plus you'll be able to see them better too.
There are a myriad of car seat prams available so you can choose the one that suits your lifestyle. Some are super light which makes them a breeze to push, while others come with extra features such as large sunshades, as well as easy-to-access storage baskets. Some come with a recliner so that you can get your child to lie flat in a secure and comfortable way.
If you're looking for something simple and easy to use then look into the Doona infant car seat and latch base. It's also the first travel system that combines a car seat with a pram which makes it easier to navigate the busy roads without worrying about your child. It also has an easy-to-use click-in/click-out mechanism that can be used straight from the box.
Safety
Car seats are one of the most crucial purchases you'll make for your baby, as they ensure their safety when they travel. There are a variety of safety features to consider when selecting the right car seat.
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 ensure that your car seat has five-point harnesses, which is made up of two straps that secure the shoulders, and two straps that cross over the hips. Check that your car seat comes with a front adjuster to tighten the harness, as well as a maximum recline of 45 degrees to avoid the suffocation.
Another thing to consider is the weight and height limitations of your infant car seat, which may differ based on the brand. Make sure that your child's height and weight are in line with these standards and also those of the stroller. If you're buying a transport system, make sure the car seat and stroller fit into each other without a hitch and conform to the federal standards for motor vehicles according to Stanton.
If you're unsure of how to install your car seat, consult a certified child passenger safety technician at a hospital or fire department. They can provide you with detailed instructions as well as answer any questions you may have.
It is also important to think about whether you would like your child's car seat to include the top tether strap which is a tether which connects to the seat via a hook embedded in the vehicle's back seat or trunk. The tether can prevent your child's head from bouncing forward in a crash, reducing the chances of head injuries.
When choosing a car seat pram, ensure that the car base and seat fit comfortably and that the locking devices are easy to operate with one hand. Also, always lock the frame of your pram before folding it. This will help you avoid accidentally folding it when your child is in the seat.
Storage
A car seat is a great method of transporting your child. It also allows you to keep the baby snug and close to you, making it easier to feed them and calm them when needed. However, these useful items aren't cheap and can be difficult to store. If you're considering a car seat pram make sure you consider the cost of storing it.
Car seats should be stored in a place that is free of insects and moisture is the best solution. The back of a closet is the ideal, but if this isn't feasible, try finding an area within your home with a good airflow and ample room to move around. Another option is a garage or completed attic. Be sure to keep your car seat in bags made of plastic or similar to it when not in use, and keep it away from areas where rodents commonly have a place to hide.
If you are planning to use your car seat pram to serve as a baby carrier, make sure you store all accessories that came with it. Included are infant inserts, strap pads, and any additional bases you have. You might also want to keep stroller adaptors for the car seat in here the same area. This will allow you to easily reinstall the car seat at a later time.
Check for signs of wear before putting away your car seat. If you find cracks in the fabric or base, or stains or tears in the fabric then it's time to replace the seat.
A baby carrier or a stroller may provide the same benefits as a car seat pram however, they're usually used for older babies. These include frame backpack carriers as well as hip carriers, slings, or mei tais. If you're planning on using a baby carrier, look for one that has the option of recline to allow your baby to lay flat when they're not asleep.
A travel system includes a car seat and stroller. The baby seat snaps into an upright that stays in your car. You can easily transfer your baby from the car to the stroller and return when you are done.