How To Attach A Car Seat To Your Stroller? Easy Step-by-step Guide

When looking for a stroller, one of the most crucial considerations is how you’ll be transporting your child. Some parents choose to hold their children while strolling, while others utilize a car seat and a stroller.

How do you choose the best car seat for your family out of the many options available? Putting a car seat on a stroller is a topic we cover in this piece.

How to Connect Graco car Seat to Double Stroller

Graco car seats are compatible with strollers thanks to an adaptor bar. Depending on the type of child seat or stroller you have, the adapters can be placed either in front of or behind the child.

Some brands (like Chicco) even allow the infant carrier to be attached without the need for any additional adapters.

While this may appear to be the simplest method for getting your baby into the stroller, it still poses a danger of injury if not utilized properly, since your child could be thrown out onto a harsh surface if they aren’t properly secured.

If you want to avoid damaging anything when carrying them on foot, make sure to fasten them tightly.

To what does one attach an infant car seat while using a stroller? – The stroller’s center is the most stable location for the car seat.

After installation, make sure all straps are snug so they don’t come undone when maneuvering around corners or up and over obstacles like curbs.

A strong indicator of this is the absence of visible slack in any of the straps; if even an inch of strap is protruding from overtightening, the straps need to be adjusted.

Once everything has been fastened, double-check to make sure nothing has come loose. Put safety first in all you do. The car seat might get dislodged from its attachments if any of the loops were to become loose, which could pose a serious safety risk.

Remember to remove the car seat from the stroller while not in use to prevent the straps from becoming accidentally loosened.

When installing a car seat, some parents find it easiest to do so before the child is already in it, while others prefer to wait until the child is buckled in. However, different families have found success with each approach, so there is no clear winner.

How to Care for Stroller

Cleaning your stroller properly should be a top priority.

Do not use bleach, ammonia, or perfume, or any other soap or detergent that may leave a residue on the fabric.

If it has gotten soiled, though, you should spot clean it with a tiny bit of washing detergent.

After washing the fabric, spray both sides with Lysol and let it stay for at least 30 minutes to disinfect. Then, before putting the stroller back together, give each piece a second wipe down to eliminate any remaining germs.

Steps on Attaching a Car Seat to Your Stroller

First, learn about the construction of the car seat. Learn how to detach the straps and how they attach to the stroller’s frame. When the time comes to attach it, this will come in handy.

Step Two: Align the vehicle belt or LATCH strap on top of the car seat with the stroller frame where the car seat will be attached. Fasten it to the top of the stroller’s frame using a LATCH connector or a vehicle’s seat belt loop, then fasten it again as securely as possible.

Step 3: Make sure there is no slack between the car seat and the stroller frame. Tighten the way they’re attached if there are any!

Fourth, loosen or tighten the connection between the car seat and the stroller frame as necessary. This will help with how much space there is for how you to get on or off, how much space there is in the stroller basket at the bottom of it, and how your child sits up.

Step Five: Fasten them together securely so that your car seat won’t fall out if they accidentally hit something.

How to Sanitize Baby Stroller

Wiping down the stroller with a bleach and water solution is the first step in sanitizing it for use with your kid. One part chlorine bleach to five parts warm water is a good cleaning solution.

Apply this solution to a clean cloth or paper towel and wipe down the entire stroller, making sure to get into any cracks or crevices and around the wheels, footwells, and back bumper.

The second step is to let the stroller dry completely after washing.

The Best Travel Systems to Wheel Your Baby All Around Town

Best Overall: BRITAX B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System

Pros

• Lightweight
• Simply collapses when not in use
• Cover may be washed in the machine.

Cons

• There is zero compatibility between the two
• It’s not easy to get to the basket of things you’re storing if you’re laying back.
• There is no child’s tray available.

The Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen Travel System earned our top spot because it’s safe to use immediately after birth and comes with a lightweight infant car seat, base, and stroller that can be used with the car seat. Once your child no longer needs the infant car seat attachment, the stroller easily transforms into a regular stroller that you can fold up with one hand. Plus, it features a UPF 50+ canopy to keep your precious cargo protected.

The Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen Travel System earned our top spot because it’s safe to use immediately after birth and comes with a lightweight infant car seat, base, and stroller that can be used with the car seat. Once your child no longer needs the infant car seat attachment, the stroller easily transforms into a regular stroller that you can fold up with one hand. Plus, it features a UPF 50+ canopy to keep your precious cargo protected.

Stroller

Our top pick is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen Travel System, which includes a lightweight infant car seat, base, and stroller that can be used with the car seat and is safe to use from birth. If your child outgrows the infant car seat, the stroller may be easily transformed into a regular stroller that you can fold up with one hand. It also has a UPF 50+ canopy to shield your valuables from the sun.

Car Seat

Weight limit is 4 to 35 pounds, and the height limit is up to 32 inches, and the car seat’s dimensions are 17.9 by 25.85 by 26.6 inches. No other vehicles are compatible with this car seat.

Best Budget: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Pros

• Lightweight
• Lots of room for storing things
• Filters the sun’s rays

Cons

• There is zero compatibility between the two
• It is possible that the front wheels will become stuck or cease moving.
• Wheels are very broad

The Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System has a car seat base, a stroller, and six interchangeable attachments to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for your baby from birth through their toddler years. The carrier and the stroller, which is extremely light, simply snap into and out of the base. Toys and your iced coffee can both be conveniently transported in the accompanying storage basket and parent cup holder while out for a stroll.

The stroller and car seat both feature an adjustable canopy to shield your child from the sun. The stroller has a canopy with a peekaboo window, a bumper bar that can be detached, and a removable snack and cup tray.

Stroller

Stroller, infant car seat, and infant car seat base are included; the stroller weighs 38.5 pounds and measures 19.8 by 21.7 by 34.3 inches. It can hold a child from birth up to 50 pounds and up to 38 inches in height.

Car Seat

Cross-Compatibility: None Listed Dimensions: Not Listed Weight: Not Listed Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds 32 inches tall

Best for Infants: Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base

Pros

• Simply collapses when not in use
• Simple to initiate action
• Available in a rainbow of hues

Cons

• Space for storing things is inadequate.
• Costly
• Possible insufficiency in height for those of greater stature

This stroller and car seat combo is as straightforward and space-saving as it gets, making it ideal for parents looking for transportation for their infants. This package includes a car seat base for your vehicle and a carrier that, with no additional components, can be used as a stroller.

The stroller’s handle extends out from the carrier when it’s in stroller mode, making it simple to push; when you’re ready to return to the car, the stroller folds down into the baby carrier, which snaps into the stroller’s base. The carrier has all the required safety measures, and it conforms to the highest US requirements.

Stroller

Included are the infant car seat, the seat cover, and the base. Stroller Weight Limit(s): NA | Product Weight: 16.5 Pounds | Stroller Dimensions: 39 x 17.3 x 32.2 Inches (unfolded)

Car Seat

Folded measurements of the car seat are 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches, and the maximum weight and height are 4 to 35 pounds and 32 inches, respectively.

Best for Twins: Baby Trend Sit N’ Stand Double Stroller

Pros

• Assists in keeping your head and neck in place.
• Lots of room for storing things
• The stroller can be used with other popular brands.

Cons

• Heavy
• When using a stand platform, the child safety seat must be in the front seat.
• Impossible to force forward

This bundle is ideal for parents of multiples, as it includes two infant carriers, two bases, and a versatile double stroller. The stroller is made to grow with the child from infancy to toddlerhood, and the car seats come with extra padding for head and neck support.

The stroller and car seats each have sun protection canopies, and the stroller has a large storage basket and a tray with cup holders for the kids and the parent.

Stroller

Tandem double stroller, two baby car seats, and two car seat bases are included in this set. The stroller weighs 34 pounds, has dimensions of 49 by 21.5 by 43 inches, and can hold up to 50 pounds. PLATFORM: 2.5 years old and up to 40 pounds in weight or height | SEATS: up to 40 pounds in weight or height

Car Seat

Cross-Compatibility: Stroller accommodates baby car seats from most major brands Weight and dimensions of car seats not listed Height and weight limits for car seats 5 to 35 pounds 30 inches

Best for Jogging: Baby Trend Expedition Travel System

Pros

• Adjustable seating
• Tires for all types of terrain
• Filters the sun’s rays

Cons

• There is zero compatibility between the two
• Bulky
• Heavy

This item combines the functions of a jogger and a transport system, relieving parents of the burden of making a decision between the two. What you get is a jogging stroller, a car seat base, and a carrier for your infant. Using the stroller’s adjustable seat and five-point harness, it may be set up as a conventional jogger or utilized with the included carrier (which can be used once the baby is six months old).

The stroller can be folded with one hand, has a lockable front swivel wheel, plenty of storage, and a tray for both the child and parent that can keep drinks. The car seat may be adjusted in height, has a canopy for shade, provides extra support for the child’s head, and is lightweight.

Stroller

Package Includes Stroller, Infant Car Seat, and Base; Stroller Weighs 27 Pounds; Stroller Measures 47 by 21 by 41 Inches; and Stroller Holds Children 6 Months to 50 Pounds or Is 42 Inches or Taller.

Car Seat

Cross-Compatibility: Not Listed Weight: 7.7 pounds Dimensions: 26 inches in length, 16.5 inches in width, and 25 inches in height

Best for Travel: Graco Modes Nest Travel System

Pros

• A stroller with a seat that can be turned around
• Largest storage basket possible
• There are three different types of strollers available.

Cons

• folding bulky
• This bassinet wobbles a lot.
• There is no child’s tray (only cupholders)

This travel strategy is very popular among families who frequently go on trips. To allow your baby to sleep while you’re out and about, just attach the infant carrier to the stroller or convert the toddler seat to a bassinet. Both the infant carrier and the toddler seat configurations have a reversible baby seat that let the child to face you or the world.

Although there isn’t a dedicated spot for parents, there are two cup holders available. There is also a large storage basket below for storing other items like diapers and wipes. To top it all off, the infant carrier and stroller’s big canopies will be appreciated by all members of the family.

Stroller

Package Includes Stroller, Infant Car Seat, and Car Seat Base; Stroller Weighs 30 Pounds; Stroller Measures 22.9 by 20.9 by 32.4 Inches; and Stroller Holds a Maximum of 50 Pounds.

Car Seat

Dimensions: 29.09 x 18.31 x 16.22 inches; Weight: 18 pounds; Height/Weight: 4-35 pounds; Compatibility: None listed

Best Splurge: NUNA TAVO next Stroller & PIPA RX Car Seat Travel System

Pros

• Filters the sun’s rays
• Simply collapses when not in use
• Lots of room for storing things

Cons

• There is zero compatibility between the two
• Big tires
• Two-toned only.

This set includes a stroller, car seat base, and infant carrier that can be used from birth through the toddler years. You can use the vehicle’s seat belt to fasten the car seat, or you can use the magnets to gently snap it into its base. The organic jersey insert can be removed and the canopy may be adjusted to provide sun protection of up to UPF 50+.

The stroller features a variety of settings for use with a regular all-weather seat, and it also accommodates an infant car seat. The stroller can be folded with one hand, features a rear brake that activates with the press of a button, and uses progressive suspension technology to cushion your child’s ride, no matter how heavy they are.

Stroller

What’s in the Box: Stroller, Infant Car Seat, and Car Seat Base; Stroller Weight: 23.2 Pounds; Stroller Dimensions (unfolded): 28.4 by 22.4 by 43.7 Inches; Stroller Weight Limit(s): Newborn to 50 Pounds;

Car Seat

Cross-Compatibility: Not Listed Dimensions: 25.2 x 17.5 x 23 inches Weight: 7.6 lbs (21.9 lbs with base) Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 32 lbs / 32 in

Best Long-Term Use: Maxi-Cosi Zelia Max Travel System

Pros

• Assists in keeping your head and neck in place.
• Ergonomically designed carrier
• Lots of room for storing things

Cons

• Worst cup holder ever
• When folding, use both hands.
• There is no child’s tray available.

A car seat base, stroller, and baby carrier are all part of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia Max Travel System. It can accommodate a child weighing up to 50 pounds. The carrier has a padded insert for the infant’s head and neck, as well as other safety measures, making it suitable for even the tiniest of infants.

The ergonomic construction of the carrier adds to its convenience and comfort for the parent. The stroller can be folded up quickly, features all-wheel suspension, a large basket, and a handlebar that can be adjusted to the parent’s height.

Stroller

What’s in the Box: Stroller, Infant Car Seat, and Car Seat Base; Stroller Weight: 21.5 Pounds; Stroller Dimensions (unfolded): 37 by 25 by 45 Inches; Stroller Weight Limit(s): Newborn to 50 Pounds

Car Seat

Weight: 9 ounces; Weight/Height Limit: 5-32 inches; Dimensions: 29 by 16 by 25.5 inches; Cross-Compatibility: Stroller-to-car seat adapters of different brands (sold separately)

How We Rated the Best Car Seat and Stroller Travel Systems

Our top picks for convertible car seats and stroller travel systems each received 4.8-5 stars. Without any hesitation, we provide our highest recommendation.

These top car seat and stroller travel systems are nearly perfect; they’re missing a few key features, but they’re still highly recommended.

The finest car seat and stroller travel systems we’ve tested scored between 4.0 and 4.5 out of 5.0 stars, although there are certainly more capable options out there.

The finest car seat and stroller travel systems received 3.5–3.9 stars, which is somewhat above average.

How We Selected the Best Car Seat and Stroller Travel Systems

We compared user and expert ratings, as well as the specifications of more than a dozen different travel systems on the market before settling on the best stroller and car seat combinations. When making our selections, we took into account factors including cost, aesthetics, functionality, maintenance, compatibility with other products, and weight and height restrictions. We also checked with a pediatrician for advice and reviewed American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations while doing so.

What to Look for in a Stroller/Car Seat Combo

Safety Features

Check to see if the baby carrier on the travel system or car seat stroller combo you’re considering has been recalled and is up to current safety regulations for car seats. In addition, the stroller’s frame needs to be strong enough to prevent the child’s fall from heights in any of its configurations.

A UPF canopy, stroller wheel locking, harness straps (for stroller conversions), and increased car seat cushioning are all further safety elements to consider.

Weight and/or Height Limitations

Not all transportation methods are created equal; hence, weight and height restrictions may apply to specific models. 2 Be aware of the car seat’s size and weight restrictions so you’ll know when to switch your child to a larger, rear-facing seat.

Stroller Configuration Options

While certain travel systems and car seat stroller combos are only suitable for infants, others can be used by your child far beyond the baby car seat stage. Consider your needs and wants carefully in order to reduce your product selection.

Ease of Use

You should look for a stroller and car seat that can be quickly and easily attached and detached from their respective bases. If the stroller is too difficult or the carrier needs to be jostled in order to click into the car seat base or stroller correctly, then you should look elsewhere for a travel system.

FAQs

Do you need a stroller and car seat combo?

There are several strollers that can be used with a wide range of car seats since they come with optional conversion kits or attachments (across a range of brands). While purchasing a stroller and car seat set is the most convenient option, you may discover that using separate items works better for your family.