Walking around with your one-year-old baby in a big city, especially if you're in a hurry, is never either easy or convenient. You must take care of your little one, your bags, and other necessaries that you have.
The situation might become even worse if your child becomes grumpy and you have no clue how to solve the problem.
Fortunately, I'm here to help you avoid these issues and let you enjoy every going-out with your kiddo. How so?
It's simple - with the best Doona infant car seat! So please read below and see why it is absolutely fantastic!
Whenever I recommend an infant car seat - Doona is always my first choice!
I like it for various benefits since it always makes my vacation super easy, and my kids and I have a wonderful time together!
It means a lot when you can smoothly handle unexpected problems, and you don't need to bother about what could happen next.
So, let's see why Doona infant car seat frequently has the first rating in my heart!
Table of Contents
- Why Doona Infant Car Seat Is a Great Choice?
- Top Choice on the Market
- Doona Additional Travel System Accessories for Families on the Wheels
- #1. Padded Travel Bag – For Doona Car Seat & Stroller - Excellent Storage
- #2. Doona Rain Cover - Compatible with Doona Car Seat & Stroller - Budget-pick
- #3. Doona Snap-On Storage - Compatible with Doona Car Seat & Stroller - Sturdy Design
- #4. Doona Sunshade Extension - For Extra Protection
- #5. Doona - Liki Trike S3 - Grey Hound - Best For Convenience
- FAQs
- Why is Doona not approved in Canada?
- Is the Doona car seat safe?
- Is Doona too heavy?
- Is Doona rear-facing only?
- Can you use the Doona as a stroller?
- Should I buy a Doona car seat?
- Is there something similar to Doona?
- How long can a baby stay in a Doona car seat?
- When should I stop using Doona?
- What should I do to transition after Doona?
- Does a Doona car seat need a base?
- Is it safe to use a Doona without a base in the car?
- How do you adjust the straps on a Doona car seat?
- Can you take a Doona car seat on a plane?
- Does the Doona fit in an airplane overhead?
- Can you bring a Doona to Disney World?
- What is the difference between Doona and Doona +?
- Can I wash the Doona?
- Final Verdict
Why Doona Infant Car Seat Is a Great Choice?
- From Car Seat to Stroller in Seconds - 5-point harness, adjustable handlebar - also acts as an anti-rebound bar inside the car, 3 layer side impact protection, highest safety & quality standards, TUV...
- Made of Baby Safe Materials & Breathable Textiles - Removable and washable stretch material canopy and shoulder pads with contrasting dark grey bamboo infant insert and head support.
- Everything you need to get Started - This set includes the Doona infant car seat, Doona bamboo infant insert, Doona bamboo head support, Doona vehicle seat protector, and our Doona base.
- Important Sizing and Usage Information - Suitable for babies between 4 lbs. to 35 lbs. and max. 32 inches in height. The Doona Infant Car Seat is rear-facing only.
- Designed For Your Lifestyle - Doona is compact and lightweight: Folded - 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches, Unfolded - 39 x 17.3 x 32.2 inches, The car seat weighs only 16.5 lbs. The latch base weighs 10.3 lbs.
1. Easy Installation: With or Without the Base
Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base is the only infant car seat on the car seat market with two modes of usage: either as a stroller or as a car seat.
This way, the Doona car seat stroller combo is unique, and you'll get it ready for the car seat use.
One of the tremendous benefits the Doona car seat stroller reviews show is the possibility to install the car seat stroller without the base into your motor vehicle, although it comes with the base.
When in your car, you should install it in a rear-facing mode only since your baby's maximum weight should be 35 pounds, so the maximum age limit is 2-year-old.
Moreover, another big plus that I like is, of course, the LATCH base seat belt system and connectors.
Therefore, your kiddo will have extra stability inside your motor vehicle, but you can use a regular seat belt as well. The results will be the same, and you need to follow the instruction manual.
Speaking of installation, I have to tell you that once you do this part becomes effortless when you try it a couple of times (telling from experience).
Compared to other car seats, Doona is very adjustable; and no matter whether you install it with/without the base, the process is quick and straightforward.
As parents, we firstly used it without the base to check the transition from the car seat to the stroller, and our baby was very comfortable, safe, and protected.
What might be an issue regarding the Doona car seat and stroller is the weight.
The car seat is more robust, weighing symbolically 16.5 pounds. When you add your child's extra value, you'll quickly become tired, and your hands are full of pressure.
However, once you have the car seat out of the vehicle, the wheels come in quickly, so you can rest without any additional weight.
2. Smooth Transition From the Car Seat to Stroller
The Doona infant car set has 3 modes of use:
- car seat (already explained),
- pull-along system (the adjustable handlebar, which is an anti-rebound, takes place above the canopy so that you can pull the car seat stroller instead of pushing it), and
- stroller mode (for on-the-go use) may seem challenging to do so; however, it's not. You can press the rotation buttons on both sides of the handlebar to rotate it into various positions and the safety red lock button to release the wheels. Hence, the wheels are more than adjustable, you'll see.
The pull-along mode is excellent for crowded spaces, especially in a vast city.
In the stroller mode, the Doona infant car seat went quickly across the paved areas. I found it a little bit hard when walking since it would be better if it were a forward-facing car seat.
However, this isn't possible due to its updated design. And it's undoubtedly NOT a big issue. You'll like it as much as I do!
3. Age Range
Even though the Doona infant car seat is a perfect choice for your little ones, they have a limit of growth.
If they outgrow 35 pounds and 32 inches of height, it's time you changed the car seat! Although they can be cozy and comfortable, their feet will hang over the edges.
It's more convenient for a younger baby, around one-year-old (it might become small for the two-year-olds due to the weight limit).
Also, it's critical to mention that the Doona car seat stroller doesn't rotate or recline angles when in the stroller mode, and it can be not very reassuring for a child like mine - the one that likes to sit upper and explore the world while in the stroller.
4. Newly Upgraded Design Technology
Whenever I walk with my baby in the Doona car seat and stroller, people turn around. It's stylish, although simple.
I love it since it's suitable for air travel, it fits smaller cars, and has excellent travel systems!
Concerning the content, it's user-friendly since it contains machine-washable fabrics made of heat and humidity-regulating, hypoallergenic and antibacterial materials.
The frame includes sturdy aluminum; therefore, the car seat is practically indestructible!
The canopy is water-repellent and provides 50+ SPF.
Also, the head support and seat protector contain energy-absorbing foam; thus, the side-impact protection is at its maximum!
5. Excellent Safety Features
I was delighted to discover that the Doona infant car seat meets all US, NHTSA, and European Safety Standards for car seats and strollers. It also meets FAA regulations and the TUV test; thus, it's safe for all travel types.
Further, the 5-point harness system proved extra stability and guaranteed that the baby wouldn't sleep away, although they can move freely in the car seat.
The handlebar provides the space between the seat and baby in the vehicle and serves as anti-rebound protection.
In the case of car accidents, the handlebar absorbs the impact and prevents the seat's rear shifting.
The Doona seat protector contains two-layers of durable impact-absorbing plastic, foam, and EPS (expanded polyethylene).
Therefore, the Doona passed hundreds of tests, and I never doubt its maximum safety features!
There's the car seat protector that keeps your vehicle's car seat safe and unharmed when you place the Doona infant car seat or the base on it.
I was pleased since the protector prevented all the stains and snacks that my baby was leaving there, and I washed it quickly to keep it clean, which is critical.
One thing that might be missing is the storage space since there's no space to attach anything to the handlebar in the case of slipping or for a basket.
So, you'll need a backup plan - mine is always a backpack.
6. Price: Unbelievable, but for a Good Reason
Despite the fact that the price might be hard to swallow ($499.00), trust me, it's worth every dollar!
The regular car seats cost between $100 and $200 plus the stroller $200 - $700!
Hence, the Doona infant car seat and stroller combination is the best option if you need all-in-one.
Top Choice on the Market
Compared to other products and their cost, the Doona always has the first rating due to its various modes of use, and you'll get a stroller and car seat for the same amount of money.
Other seats and strollers will cost more, so this is an ideal option for your family.
Yet again, the weight comes with the wheels, but the wheels make your family outgoings convenient.
- From Car Seat to Stroller in Seconds - 5-point harness, adjustable handlebar - also acts as an anti-rebound bar inside the car, 3 layer side impact protection, highest safety & quality standards, TUV...
- Made of Baby Safe Materials & Breathable Textiles - Removable and washable stretch material canopy and shoulder pads with contrasting dark grey bamboo infant insert and head support.
- Everything you need to get Started - This set includes the Doona infant car seat, Doona bamboo infant insert, Doona bamboo head support, Doona vehicle seat protector, and our Doona base.
- Important Sizing and Usage Information - Suitable for babies between 4 lbs. to 35 lbs. and max. 32 inches in height. The Doona Infant Car Seat is rear-facing only.
- Designed For Your Lifestyle - Doona is compact and lightweight: Folded - 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches, Unfolded - 39 x 17.3 x 32.2 inches, The car seat weighs only 16.5 lbs. The latch base weighs 10.3 lbs.
Doona Additional Travel System Accessories for Families on the Wheels
Let's see why this product has a 5-star rating on Amazon!
The first benefit is that travel bag makes your journey easy! The padded straps won't hurt your back. Hence, you can place all your baby stuff in the extra space and make your hands free.
The content is fantastic, as well! Namely, the fabrics are water-repellent, durable, and rip-proof; therefore, the bag would protect your Doona car seat stroller from any bumps or crumps.
The review shows that you can handle it quickly at the airport since you won't lose in transit or damage it. Also, you can check and control the stroller while at the airport.
Finally, when you don't use it, it offers a large storage part for your necessaries when folded. Such a great product for simple parenting!
- For air travel system
- Durable
- Excellent storage
- /
You may wonder why parents would buy this Doona product. I will tell you about my family experience.
I love it since it contains baby-safe and friendly fabrics; thus, you can focus on more vital things and not bother about whether the rain cover will harm your little ones. And its rating shows the same!
It offers maximum comfort and a relaxing atmosphere since the material has a ventilation system that keeps your baby cool, pressure-free, dry, but more vitally SAFE.
You can open/close it with ease - only zip or unzip it and keep the rain out. Thanks to the Snap-on connectors, the Doona cover4 is super easy to use, and you can remove it effortlessly.
Regarding the cleaning part, it's a breeze as you can wipe off any spills, and you would get a storage bag when you don't use the cover. So simple and great!
- Affordable
- Warm
- Thick
- Minor design flaws
And now, something incredible! I present to you the Doona must-have product for all parents!
Made out of the breathable and ergonomic mesh, followed by the carry handle, the Doona storage provides more space for the baby stuff and all other belongings, keeping them secure and safe.
Thanks to the Snap-On connectors, you can remove the additional part with ease and quickly attach it.
Due to the sturdy and durable design, this Doona bag can handle up to 7 pounds of heavy stuff, regardless of your kiddo's weight. You can place the baby-related products there, such as diapers, toys, bottles, snacks, etc.
Important note for every family: remove this additional part before folding the Doona car seat into your vehicle.
- Thick
- Excellent additional space
- Affordable
- Connection issues
The review shows that extension increases SPF and UV protection for more than 50, even during the sunniest days! Wow, your little ones will have the ultimate protection!
What's also significant regarding the extension is its adjustability to various sunlight conditions; hence, you can handle the situations in all scenarios.
Moreover, you could use it in your vehicle as additional sun protection for your children.
When it gets dirty, you could clean it easily and leave no spills, stains, and other dirt, and keep it clean for the next use. Also, you'll get a carry bag for storing it when you don't need it.
Thanks to the Snap-On attachments, you can attach or remove it to the stroller or car seat with much ease.
- Stretchable
- Versatile
- Easy usage
- Lightweight
- Not practical
Regarding this Doona product, let me tell you that it's super portable! Thus, you can carry it with you wherever your family goes out with your children and friends. Yes, it's just great!
Due to its foldability feature, you can fold/unfold it in seconds! You can set off a journey by car, by plane, by boat - the options are limitless! It fits the plane's overhead bin or your vehicle's trunk.
Further, you don't have to assembly it since you can remove it from the box, and it's ready for usage!
The review and rating show that it provides maximum comfort, functionality, relaxation, and urban and sleek design. You'll undoubtedly like it!
And parents can, of course, navigate the location of their kiddo thanks to the dual steering system. Wow, such a great product for simple parenting!
- Comfortable
- Quick usage
- Thick
- folding with ease
- Minor design flaws
FAQs
Why is Doona not approved in Canada?
Doona car seats are, in fact, prohibited in Canada.
The primary reason for such a prohibition is that the angle of the car seat is not adjustable to fit the vehicle properly.
For this reason, the car seat is considered unsafe according to Canadian safety and security car seat standards.
In addition, if you try to sneak it through the border, you will have severe consequences. For example, the car seat is subject to voided insurance and multiple fines.
Is the Doona car seat safe?
YES! It is safe due to the side-impact protection, the LATCH seat belt system for more stability and security, and the handlebar that absorbs the energy and force during a car collision.
The seat meets the security test as well, so don't worry - we think of the well-being of your kids.
Is Doona too heavy?
Well, it might be heavy but not too heavy. You can get tired if you carry it around with the child; you can feel the pressure.
However, when you use the Doona as a stroller, it won't be hard for you at all.
Is Doona rear-facing only?
Yes, it is.
The car seat is a rear-facing infant car seat, supporting kids from four to 35 pounds. They should be around 32 inches tall to change the seat to a forward-facing one.
They should be around two years old to switch to the forward-facing car seat after the Doona rear-facing one.
Can you use the Doona as a stroller?
Of course, you can.
First, you will unfold the parts and extend them for stroller mode.
Then, if you need it as a compact car seat, simply fold it once again, and you can use it as a rear-facing car seat.
Should I buy a Doona car seat?
Undoubtedly YES! Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base provides much comfort, a relaxing atmosphere, and stability for your children.
It also offers many travel possibilities, and it meets the safety test, so there's no reason to avoid it!
Is there something similar to Doona?
When speaking about strollers, some specific models are similar to the Doona stroller, such as:
- Babyzen YOYO 2 - 13.6 pounds.
- Silver Cross Jet - 13.6 pounds.
- Baby Jogger City Tour 2 - 14.3 pounds.
- UPPAbaby MINU - 14.5 pounds.
How long can a baby stay in a Doona car seat?
Doona car seats don't have a limit by age but by weight.
Thus, the optimal limit is 28 pounds and around 12 -15 months of age. Some parents do keep their child in Doona until 24 months.
It's essential to follow the baby's development and instructions and start using Doona from birth.
When should I stop using Doona?
It would help if you stopped using the Doona car seat six years after the date of manufacture. It has a six-year lifespan.
Of course, you should stop using it immediately after you have a car accident. These are technical parts.
Regarding your children, they should use Doona from 4-35 pounds and up to 32 inches of the maximum height limit. They should be around two to stop using the car seat.
However, the NHTSA and the AAP experts strongly recommend keeping kids rear-facing as long as possible as these are the safest options.
So, please don't rush to place your kids into forward-facing units if they're not ready. You can seriously hurt them.
What should I do to transition after Doona?
Once your child overpasses the Doona manufacturer's weight and height limits, you should place your child in the forward-facing car seat.
You can pick the multiple convertible car seats, especially those with the extended rear-facing modes, to keep your little ones stable and secure.
Go with Graco Extend2Fit, Nuna RAVA, and similar models.
Does a Doona car seat need a base?
Yes, the Doona car seat includes a car seat base with the car seat when purchasing it.
You'll want to keep the car seat base in your primary vehicle for everyday use and might want to obtain a different Doona car seat base for other vehicles.
The Doona car seat can be installed in your motor vehicle with or without the base, using only a seat belt system, making the unit convenient and travel-friendly for traveling and taxis.
Is it safe to use a Doona without a base in the car?
Yes, it is. You can install the Doona car seat with or without the car seat base.
This is especially important when you want to transform the car seat to stroller mode and vice versa.
Your child will be safe, secure, and protected in both ways, so you don't have to worry about their safety.
The installation, both with and without the base, might be a tricky process for a newbie, so I suggest you try it a couple of times until you're experienced enough for the straightforward and effortless operation.
How do you adjust the straps on a Doona car seat?
Follow the procedure below:
- Detach the shoulder straps from the metal harness plate at the infant car seat's back.
- Pull the shoulder straps out of the front part and remove the pads.
- Route the shoulder straps through the adequate shoulder strap slots. The shoulder straps need to be threaded slightly below or at the same height as the children's shoulders.
- Reattach the straps to the metal harness plate placed at the car seat's back of the car seat. Ensure that the straps are not twisted.
- The shoulder straps that are attached to the metal plate must be threaded between the seat body and the metal bar.
Can you take a Doona car seat on a plane?
Yes, you can. The Doona car seat/stroller model is FAA approved to be used for aircraft in the United States.
You will find the label stating the car seat meets all FMVSS and FAA standards for long distances at the back of the seat or somewhere near the bottom.
Or, look for it in the car seat manual.
Does the Doona fit in an airplane overhead?
Doona car seats have been famous for fitting larger plane overhead compartments, like those in 777s.
However, if the car seat does not fit such a place, you can always gate check your seat or use it in a plane seat (just contact your airline to confirm with them all possibilities in advance.)
Can you bring a Doona to Disney World?
Yes, you can, but only in the stroller form.
According to the Disney transportation rules and policy, you cannot install the car seat in the back of the vehicle's seat and use it in such a way.
You can only collapse and convert it into a stroller seat to carry it around.
I suggest you check all the regulations and even contact Disney experts to give you more information regarding the Disney limits and prohibitions.
What is the difference between Doona and Doona +?
First of all, many parents complain there are no Doona original car seats available.
That's not really true, as you can find both the Doona and the Doona + models available on Amazon and similar sites.
On the other hand, there's not much difference between the original Doona version and the Doona + car seat.
The main difference is that the Doona + had a minor change and advanced features only in the head support design so it might be slightly better than the previous model.
Other than this, there are no other different points, and you can pick both seats as your primary option.
Can I wash the Doona?
Sure you can! The car seat offers washable content, so you can choose the best washing style to fit your needs.
Thus, you can either maintain your Doona car seat by hand-washing in the bathtub or by soaking the seat in warm, soapy water.
Another cleaning mode method is placing the cover and removable content in the washing machine at a low temperature under the gentlest cycle.
Finally, it would help if you lined or tumbled after washing the car seat.
But, please ensure you protect your car seat from dirt by putting on a suitable car seat cover before the actual use.
Final Verdict
I love the Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base!
It's the only infant car seat that quickly transforms into a stroller! Thus, its practical and safe solution helps on-the-go families to organize the time as they wish.
No more hurry, installing/reinstalling of the bulky seats into cabs or rental cars!
More vitally, your baby won't cry if you replace him/her into a stroller mode from a car seat mode.
The Doona travel-friendly car seat is everything!
- From Car Seat to Stroller in Seconds - 5-point harness, adjustable handlebar - also acts as an anti-rebound bar inside the car, 3 layer side impact protection, highest safety & quality standards, TUV...
- Made of Baby Safe Materials & Breathable Textiles - Removable and washable stretch material canopy and shoulder pads with contrasting dark grey bamboo infant insert and head support.
- Everything you need to get Started - This set includes the Doona infant car seat, Doona bamboo infant insert, Doona bamboo head support, Doona vehicle seat protector, and our Doona base.
- Important Sizing and Usage Information - Suitable for babies between 4 lbs. to 35 lbs. and max. 32 inches in height. The Doona Infant Car Seat is rear-facing only.
- Designed For Your Lifestyle - Doona is compact and lightweight: Folded - 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches, Unfolded - 39 x 17.3 x 32.2 inches, The car seat weighs only 16.5 lbs. The latch base weighs 10.3 lbs.
