Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A quality car seat can keep your baby safe and secure while driving. But which one is most suitable for your infant?
Selecting the best infant car seat isn't easy. There are many features to take into consideration, such as latch hooks, belt paths, and load legs. Here's what you should know to make the best buying decision for your family.
Easy of Use
You'll need to choose a model that's easy to install and use whether you're purchasing an infant car seat for a newborn or upgrading from your toddler's car seat. Think about the size and weight of your child, the size of the seat that will fit in the car, and any extra features, such as the lay-flat option that can also be used as a stroller.
Infant-only seats are a great option for infants because they're generally narrower than convertible car seats and fit newborns more snugly. They also have the safety of a harness to protect your child's head, which is fragile in the event of a collision which reduces the stress on their neck and the spinal cord.
Convertible car seats are great for parents who intend to keep their children rear-facing for as long as they can because most models allow children to ride in a rear-facing position up to the point that they're 30 pounds or more. Find a convertible seat that meets federal safety standards and has a a weight limit of at least 50 pounds.
When you're looking for a car seat it's important to consider that while all car seats must conform to strict NHTSA safety standards There are a variety of different models available on the market. To avoid the stress and danger of a dangerous or defective seat, select one that's certified by a reputable company or organization, and check for recalls or complaints from the manufacturer.
The top-rated car seats are constructed with skin-friendly materials, plush padding, and several recline positions. Some car seats come with extra padding on the straps for the shoulder and around the buckle to ensure your child is comfortable during long roadtrips. If you have a small vehicle, you should consider a small infant car seat like the Clek Liing. It is less than 17 inches wide and is easily installed in most automobiles. The Mesa Max from UPPAbaby that is designed to be used with strollers made by UPPAbaby, is another great choice for families who want a no-fuss car seat that is simple to use. The harness that retracts automatically, EZ buckle and premium lower anchor connectors are all easy to use.
Safety Features
There are the following aspects when selecting the best infant car seat. If you're looking to ensure your baby is safe throughout the entire journey or you are looking for a lightweight, safe car seat for your child to use on long trips, it's important to consider some of the aspects. Be aware of the weight and height limits of your infant seat. This will determine how long your child can safely spend in the seat. Choose a seat that is able to accommodate the 90th centile of your child's height before turning 1. Also, consider whether you'd prefer to use blankets or coats on the straps of the harness. The AAP cautions against this, since thick clothing can cause a collapse and leave the straps too loose to secure your child, thereby increasing the risk of injuries.
Other factors to consider are whether you plan to install your car seat with a vehicle belt or the LATCH system, and if it's compatible with other strollers or travel systems. If you plan to use your seat for the majority of your journeys in the car it's best to pick one that fits easily onto the base that is compatible with it. This will reduce time and energy since you won't need to take off and reinstall your seat each time you take a trip in the car.
In our testing the Best of the Bump-winning Cybex Cloud G Lux earned top marks for its ease of installation and adjustments, with reviewers affirming that it "has everything you need for a quick and simple installation." This includes LATCH connectors of premium quality that flip out of the base and turn green once fully connected. Also included is a SuperCinch strap tightener for force multipliers as well as spring-loaded leveling feet.
Another option is the Baby Trend's budget-friendly Secure-Lift, which we've found to be just as simple to use as models that cost twice as much. The adjustable headrest that can be adjusted to five positions that adapts to your child's growth as well as its buckle holders with magnetic buckles, and its no-rethread harness have been highly praised by our test subjects.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade is great option for newborns because of its unique 180-degree flat sleeping position which allows them to sleep longer and more comfortably on travel. It's also been praised for its safety, with consumer champion Which? ADAC giving it the highest lab rating for infant car seats.
Rear-facing Options
In the majority of cars, the most secure spot for a newborn is the rear seat. The center position is farthest from any impact that could occur and will shield your child the best in the event of a crash. If you can, choose a car seat for infants that allows your baby to ride rear-facing until they're about one year old. It's also crucial to make sure the car seat is correctly installed and that the headrest fits snugly against your child's chest and head. The most efficient way to do this is to talk to an accredited child safety technician, who will give you the most current recommendations for car seat use and installation. Find one near you here.
The choice of a car seat for your infant is a significant purchase that you'll likely be using for a very long time, so you'll want to select one that has an impressive crash test sensor and analysis score, as in addition to features that will keep your child comfortable. The Clek LIing is an excellent choice for parents looking for a rear-facing infant seat that's affordable. It scored well in our analysis and sensor test. It comes with a simple LATCH system that changes color to show that the buckle straps are correctly secured to the car and a load-leg to help prevent frontal collisions.
Strategist senior editor and mother of two Jen Trolio used the Graco Extend2Fit for her two daughters who both went from birth until age 6. The adjustable harness size and height allows it to fit children of all sizes as well as taller ones. It's a great choice for a wide range of vehicles and has a low, 50-pound limit on rear-facing weight. The seat also converts into a booster seat, which Trolio used for her oldest daughter up to the time she was 10 years old.
Another option that is affordable is the Nuna RAVA. It does not come with a base like the majority of seats, however it is still very simple to put in using either method with its rigid LATCH connectors that flip out from the bottom of the seat. They then automatically turn green when secured to the vehicle. The RAVA is also a comfortable seat for babies, with a no-rethread harness and magnetic buckle holders that allow you to secure the straps without removing your child from the seat. It also has a six-position recline, which LaBracio found to be useful.
Options with a Forward-Facing
In front-facing seats the necks of children are held in the back of the seat, instead of being pushed forward by the hard seat of a vehicle. This position protects them in collisions with the sides. best car seats for infants allow infants to ride rear-facing until they are over 20 pounds and a year old. However, a lot of experts recommend that children ride rear-facing as long as possible--their neck muscles and bones will become stronger by the time they're ready for a forward-facing seat.
If you are looking at alternatives for forward-facing car seats, ensure that they meet i-Size requirements, have a cushioned head rest, and a deep harness pocket. Be sure to check the maximum height and weight limit and consider buying an automobile seat that can expand with your child to the position of a booster seat. Certain models have an all-in one feature that allows your child to move from a rear-facing car seat (with harness and tether) to a forward facing car seat.
It's also important to determine whether the seat fits your vehicle, particularly if you have a small trunk space or a vehicle with a low clearance. Make sure to check the seat's dimensions and the owner's manual to ensure that the seat is the best fit.
Look for a car-seat that provides good support and comfort for your child. Long journeys in the vehicle are more enjoyable if they are able to rest comfortably. This may include features such as an adjustable headrest and a five-point harness that can be tightened from the rear of the seat, and a variety of recline positions.
After narrowing down your options, think about crash replacement policies for the car seat you're thinking of buying. These policies can vary from a manufacturer's replacement policy to a case-by-case analysis.
Once you've done your research and determined what type of car seat you're interested in, it's time to start shopping around. Look through the selections at your local baby store or online retailer, and talk to friends who have young children to get their suggestions. You can also schedule a consultation with a CPST at Rockridge Kids to help you find the right car seat for your infant.