10 Easy Steps To Install Doona Base

Featured Image: [Image of Doona Base installed in a car]

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Ensuring the safety of your little one during car journeys is paramount, and the Doona Base plays a crucial role in this endeavor. Its innovative design and ease of installation make it an essential accessory for parents who prioritize both safety and convenience. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or a first-time driver with an infant, the Doona Base will provide peace of mind and simplify your travel experience. By following these detailed instructions, you can effortlessly install the Doona Base in your vehicle, ensuring a secure and comfortable journey for your precious passenger.

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Before embarking on the installation process, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the contents of the Doona Base kit. Inside, you will find essential components such as the base itself, a user manual with step-by-step instructions, and a support leg for added stability. Gather all the necessary tools, such as a wrench, socket, and level, to ensure a seamless and efficient installation. Once you have assembled the necessary tools and components, you can proceed to the next step with confidence.

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To commence the installation, locate the appropriate location in your vehicle for the Doona Base. Typically, car manufacturers recommend installing the base in the center seat of the second row for optimal safety. Consult your vehicle’s user manual or seek guidance from a qualified technician if you require further clarification. Once you have determined the installation site, carefully align the base with the vehicle’s seat belt anchors and insert the seat belt buckle into the base’s connectors. Securely fasten the seat belt by pulling it taut and ensuring a snug fit. This step is vital, as it provides the primary anchoring point for the Doona Base.

Preparing for Installation

Before You Begin:

Before embarking on the installation process, it’s essential to ensure you have everything you need and that your surroundings are conducive to a safe and successful installation.

1. Gather Your Materials:

Doona base
Car seat
Vehicle owner’s manual
Leveling tool (optional)
Towels or blankets (for protection)

2. Choose a Suitable Location:

Select a well-lit and spacious area with ample room to maneuver around the car seat and base.
Ensure the location is free from any obstructions, such as clutter or toys.

3. Flatten the Vehicle Seat:

Remove any objects or debris from the vehicle seat.
Flatten the seat by adjusting the backrest to an upright position and ensuring the seat is level.

4. Identify the Vehicle’s Lower Anchors (LATCH) Connectors:

Locate the LATCH connectors on the vehicle seat using the owner’s manual.
They are typically situated between the seatback and the seat cushion, marked with labels or colored loops.

5. Protect Your Vehicle’s Upholstery:

Place towels or blankets on the vehicle seat to protect the upholstery from potential scratches or marks during the installation process.

Unboxing the Doona Base

Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to unpack the Doona Base and familiarize yourself with its components. The following items should be included in the box:

Component	Quantity
Doona Base	1
ISOFIX Latch Connectors	2
Top Tether Strap	1
Instruction Manual	1

Once you have confirmed that all components are present, proceed to the next step of the installation process. Handle the components carefully and read the instruction manual thoroughly before attempting any actions to ensure the safety and proper functionality of the Doona Base.

Assembling the Base

Assembling the Doona base is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps:

1. Unpack the Base

Begin by unpacking the Doona base from its packaging. Ensure all components are present, including the base, ISOfix connectors, and support leg.

2. Install the ISOfix Connectors

Locate the ISOfix connectors on the base and extend them into the upright position. Then, insert the connectors into the corresponding ISOfix anchor points in your vehicle. Push down firmly on the connectors until they lock into place.

3. Extend the Support Leg

Adjusting the Support Leg Height

Next, extend the support leg from the base. Its length needs to be adjusted according to the angle of your vehicle’s seat. To adjust the height, press the red button on the side of the support leg and slide the leg to the desired length.

Seat Angle	Support Leg Height
Upright	Fully extended
Reclined	Partially extended or retracted

Securing the Support Leg

Once the support leg is adjusted to the correct height, rotate the foot of the leg clockwise until it locks securely against the vehicle’s floor. This provides additional stability for the base.

Congratulations, you have successfully assembled the Doona base. Please refer to the Doona user manual for further instructions on properly installing the car seat and infant carrier onto the base.

Connecting the Base to the Car

The Doona base is designed to make installing your child’s car seat quick and easy. Here are the steps on how to connect the base to your car:

1. Position the Base

Place the Doona base in the desired location in your car, either in the front or back seat. Ensure that the base is placed on a flat and stable surface.

2. Secure the Base

Locate the LATCH connectors on the base and attach them to the corresponding anchors in your car. If your car does not have LATCH anchors, use the vehicle seat belt to secure the base. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.

3. Adjust the Support Leg

Extend the support leg on the base until it firmly touches the floor of your car. This will provide additional stability and prevent the base from moving.

4. Inspect the Base

Once the base is installed, check the following points to ensure proper functionality:

Component	Inspection
Base	Securely connected to the car seat and stable
LATCH Connectors/Seat Belt	Properly attached and tightened
Support Leg	Fully extended and touching the floor
Indicator Lights	Lit and green (if applicable)

If you encounter any difficulties or have any concerns, refer to the Doona user manual or consult with a qualified car seat technician for assistance.

Securing the Doona Car Seat

Ensuring the safety of your infant while traveling is paramount. The Doona car seat is meticulously designed to provide both comfort and optimal protection for your precious little one. Follow these detailed instructions to securely install the Doona car seat:

1. Select a Suitable Location

Choose a position in your vehicle that allows for unobstructed access to the rear-facing position. The Doona car seat is designed for rear-facing installation only, providing maximum head and neck support for your infant.

2. Extend the Base

Grasp the release lever on the base of the Doona car seat and pull it upwards. The base should effortlessly extend and lock into place.

3. Connect the Car Seat to the Base

Align the Doona car seat with the base and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure that the car seat is securely fastened to the base.

4. Install the Base in Your Vehicle

Locate the LATCH connectors in your vehicle and hook them onto the corresponding attachment points on the Doona base. Tighten the LATCH straps as much as possible for maximum stability.

5. Stabbing the Base

This is a crucial step that ensures the Doona car seat remains tightly secured in your vehicle even in the event of an accident. Follow these detailed instructions meticulously:

Step	Action
1	Using a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool, locate the designated stabbing point on the underside of the base.
2	Insert the screwdriver firmly into the stabbing point and push down with considerable force.
3	Continue applying pressure until the metal stabilizing bar fully engages with the vehicle’s floor.
4	Repeat this process on both sides of the base to ensure optimal stability.

Adjusting the Height and Angle

The Doona base can be adjusted to fit a variety of car seats. To adjust the height, simply push the release button on the side of the base and slide the base up or down until it reaches the desired height. To adjust the angle, loosen the knob on the back of the base and tilt the base forward or backward until it reaches the desired angle.

Positioning the Base

Once the height and angle of the base have been adjusted, it’s time to position the base in the car. The base should be placed in the center of the back seat, with the back of the base against the back of the seat. Make sure that the base is level and that there is no space between the base and the seat.

Securing the Base

Once the base is in position, it needs to be secured to the car. The base is secured using two LATCH connectors. To connect the LATCH connectors, simply hook the connectors onto the LATCH anchors in the car seat. Make sure that the connectors are securely attached and that there is no slack in the straps.

Installing the Car Seat

Once the base is secured, the car seat can be installed. To install the car seat, simply place the car seat on the base and press down until it clicks into place. Make sure that the car seat is securely attached to the base and that there is no movement.

Adjusting the Harness

The harness on the car seat should be adjusted to fit your child snugly. To adjust the harness, simply pull the straps on the back of the car seat until the harness is tight. Make sure that the harness is not too tight or too loose.

Checking the Installation

Once the car seat is installed, it’s important to check the installation to make sure that it is secure. To check the installation, simply shake the car seat from side to side and front to back. The car seat should not move more than 1 inch in any direction.

Testing the Installation

Once you have installed the Doona base, it’s crucial to test it thoroughly to ensure it is secure and safe for your child.

Step 1: Load and Release the Car Seat

Place the car seat on the base and lock it into place. Press the release button on the car seat and lift it off the base to confirm it is properly secured and releases easily.

Step 2: Inspection and Movement

Visually inspect the base and car seat to ensure there are no loose parts or damage. Try to move the car seat side-to-side and front-to-back to check for stability. It should not move more than 1 inch in any direction.

Step 3: Installation Position

Make sure the base is installed in a forward-facing position on the vehicle seat. The car seat should be placed rear-facing, with the child’s back facing the rear of the vehicle.

Step 4: Indicator Lights

Check for indicator lights on the base that confirm the proper installation. These lights should display green or another color to indicate secure and safe placement.

Step 5: Vehicle Seat Belt

Ensure that the vehicle seat belt is tightly fastened around the base. The belt should be routed through the designated belt paths and firmly tightened to keep the base secure.

Step 6: Recline Angle

Adjust the recline angle of the car seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The seat should be reclined to a comfortable position for your child, and the harness straps should be snug and at shoulder height.

Step 7: Professional Inspection

For added peace of mind, you may consider scheduling a professional inspection by a certified child passenger safety technician. They can ensure that the Doona base is installed correctly and that you have a thorough understanding of its proper use.

Inspecting for Proper Fit

Once the base is installed, it’s crucial to ensure a proper fit to guarantee the safety of your child. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Check the Base Level: Place the car seat into the base and check if it sits level on all sides. Use a level indicator if necessary.
Buckle the Seat: Fasten the car seat into the base using the provided harness straps. Tighten the straps until the seat is snug but not too tight.
Rock the Seat: Gently rock the car seat from side to side and front to back. It should move slightly, but not excessively.
Inspect the Indicator: Most bases have an indicator light or audible signal that will activate when the car seat is properly installed. Ensure that this indicator is giving a positive signal.
Check the Recline Angle: Adjust the recline angle of the car seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is especially important for infants to maintain a safe and comfortable position.
Tighten the Belt: If the base is installed using a seat belt, ensure that it’s tightened as much as possible. Avoid twisting or jamming the belt while tightening.
Unbuckle and Recheck: Unbuckle the car seat from the base and then reinstall it. Repeat steps 1-6 to ensure a consistent and secure fit.
Inspect the Base: Carefully examine the base for any loose parts, cracks, or damage. If any issues are found, do not use the base and contact the manufacturer immediately. Refer to the table below for a detailed checklist of base inspection points:

Inspection Point	Check for
Base Connectors	Securely locked into car seat
Seat Belt Tension	Tightened to the maximum extent
Indicator Light	Activated, indicating proper installation
Harness Straps	Snugly fitted and properly adjusted
Base Stability	No significant movement or rocking
Cracks or Damage	None present on the base or connectors

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

1. The base is not securely attached to the vehicle seat.

Ensure the base is correctly aligned with the vehicle seat and that the locking indicators are green. If not, remove the base, realign it, and reinstall it.

2. The car seat is not properly attached to the base.

Check that the car seat is fully seated on the base and that the release button is not depressed. If it’s not, remove the car seat, reposition it on the base, and try again.

3. The belt is not tight enough.

Pull the belt as tight as possible, using the belt tensioning mechanism. Refer to the user manual for specific instructions.

4. The base is too far forward or back on the vehicle seat.

Adjust the base’s position to ensure it is centered on the vehicle seat and within the manufacturer’s specified range.

5. The vehicle seat is not in the upright position.

Adjust the vehicle seat to the upright position to provide a stable base for the Doona base.

6. There is a gap between the base and the vehicle seat.

Use a rolled-up towel or other suitable material to fill the gap and provide a firm connection between the base and the seat.

7. The base is rocking or moving excessively.

Check that the base is securely attached to the vehicle seat and that the vehicle seat is in the upright position. If necessary, adjust the base’s position or tighten the belt.

8. The car seat is not level.

Use the leveling foot on the back of the base to adjust the angle of the car seat as needed.

9. The Anti-Rebound Panel (ARP) is not properly installed.

Ensure the ARP is fully extended and rests against the vehicle seat, forming a solid barrier behind the car seat. If it’s not, remove the ARP, reposition it correctly, and reinstall it. Verify that the ARP’s indicators are green, indicating it is securely attached.

Maintaining the Doona Base

To ensure the safety and longevity of your Doona Base, it is essential to maintain it properly. Here are some key maintenance tips:

Clean the Base Regularly: Use a damp cloth with mild soap and water to clean the base. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Check the Locking Mechanism: Ensure that the locking mechanism is operating smoothly and securely. Any signs of wear or damage should be reported to the manufacturer.
Inspect the Harness: Examine the harness for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Replace the harness immediately if necessary.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate any moving parts, such as the hinges and latches.
Store Properly: Store the base in a dry, sheltered place when not in use to prevent rust and damage.

Special Considerations for Doona Base Maintenance:

Clean the Wheels: Regularly clean the wheels with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may affect their performance.
Check Tire Pressure: Ensure that the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure indicated on the base. Underinflated tires can affect stability and handling.
Avoid Extended Exposure to Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the colors of the base and damage the materials. Park the stroller in shaded areas whenever possible.
Safety Features: Inspect the safety features of the base, such as the indicator lights and alarms, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Manufacturer Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance instructions and recommendations.

Maintenance Task	Recommended Frequency
Clean Base	Monthly
Check Locking Mechanism	Every 6 months
Inspect Harness	Every 3 months
Lubricate Moving Parts	As needed
Check Tire Pressure	Every 2 weeks

How to Install Doona Base

Installing the Doona base is a simple process that can be completed in minutes. Once installed, the base will allow you to easily and safely secure the Doona car seat in your vehicle.

To begin, locate the two release levers on the top of the base. Squeeze the levers and pull the backrest of the base up and forward until it locks into place.

Next, locate the two ISOFIX connectors on the bottom of the base. Press the connectors into the ISOFIX anchors in your vehicle until they click into place.

Finally, pull the tension strap on the front of the base until it is tight. The base is now installed and ready to use.