Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A good car seat keeps your baby safe, comfortable and secure while on the road. Which one is best for your baby?
With features like latch hooks, load legs, and belt routes to consider, picking the right infant car seat can be a challenge. Here's what you need to know to make the best purchase for your family.
Ease of Use
You'll want to choose one that is easy to install and use, whether you're buying an infant car seat for a newborn or upgrading your toddler's seat. Think about the size and weight of your child, the seat's fit in your car, and any extra features, such as the lay-flat option that can also be used as a stroller.
Infant-only chairs are a great option for babies because they are typically smaller and fit more comfortably than convertible car seats. They also come with a harness that can support your child's fragile head in the event of a collision, which can reduce tension on their neck and the spinal cord.
Convertible car seat are ideal for parents who want to keep their child rear-facing for as long as they want. The majority of models let the child sit rear-facing until the weight is 30 pounds or more. Choose a convertible car seat that complies with the safety standards of the federal government and has a a weight minimum of 50 pounds.
When shopping for a car seat it's important to keep in mind that, even though all car seats must meet strict NHTSA safety standards There are a variety of different models available on the market. To avoid the burden and risk of a defective or dangerous seat, make sure you choose one approved by a reputable business or organization, and then look for recent recalls and complaints from the manufacturer.
Top-rated car seats are made with skin-friendly materials, plush padding and several recline positions. Some of them also have padding near the buckle area and on the shoulder harness to help your baby remain comfortable on long road trips. If you drive a smaller car, look for a smaller infant seat, such as the Clek Liing one, which is less than 17 inches wide and is easy to install in most vehicles. The Mesa Max from UPPAbaby, which is designed to be used with strollers made by UPPAbaby, is another excellent option for families who want a no-fuss car seat that's easy to use. Its auto-retracting straps, EZ buckle and premium lower anchor connectors with guides, and a no-rethread harness make it simple to use for any car journey.
Safety Features
There are the following aspects when selecting an infant car seat. Whether you want to ensure your baby is comfortable during the entire journey or you are looking for a light car seat that is safe for your child to use for long trips, you need to think about some of the features. Be aware of the weight and height limits of your infant car seat. This will determine how long your child can be safely in the seat and so, choose a seat that can be adjusted to minimum your child's 90th percentile measurement before they turn 1. Consider whether you want to cover a blanket or coat on the straps of your harness. The AAP warns against this because thick clothing could be compressed during a crash, leaving straps too loose for your child to be restrained which increases the risk of injury.
You should also consider whether your car seat can be secured using the LATCH system or a belt for your vehicle or if it's compatible with other strollers or travel systems. If you plan to use your seat for most of your driving, it's best to choose one that is easily fitted onto the base that is compatible with it. This will help you save time and energy since you won't have to take out and reinstall your seat each time you take a trip in the car.
In our tests, the Best of The Bump-winning Cybex Cloud G Lux earned top marks for its ease of installation and adjustments, with reviewers commenting that it "has everything you need for a fast and simple installation." This includes premium LATCH connectors that flip out from the base and change to green when fully connected, plus a SuperCinch strap tightener that can force-multiply and an adjustable foot with springs.
Another option is the affordable Baby Trend Secure-Lift that we've found to be just as simple to use as other models that cost twice as much. Our test participants have applauded it for its five-position headrest, height-adjustable that grows with your baby, no-rethread harness, and magnetic buckle holders.
The Maxi-Cosi jade is a ideal choice for babies because of its unique 180-degree flat sleep position, which allows them to stay asleep longer and more comfortably during road trips. It's also praised for its safety, with consumer champion Which? ADAC awarding it the highest laboratory score for car seats for infants.
Rear-Facing Options
In most vehicles, a newborn's safest position is the center rear seat. The center position is farthest from any impact that could occur and will protect your child best in the event of a crash. If you can, select an infant car seat that lets your child ride rear-facing until they're about an year old. It's also crucial to ensure that the car seat is correctly installed and that the headrest fits perfectly against your child's head and chest. Find a certified child passenger technician who can give you the most current suggestions for car seat installation and use. Find one in your area here.
The car seat you choose for your baby is a significant investment, and you'll use it for a long time. You'll want a seat that has a good crash test score and analysis score. It should also include features to ensure your baby is at ease. The Clek Liing is a great option to parents looking for a budget-friendly rear-facing infant car seat. It scored high in our analysis and sensor test. It has a simple LATCH system that changes color to show that the buckle straps are properly attached to the car, and a load-leg to help prevent frontal collisions.
Jen Trolio, senior editor at Strategist and mother of two, opted for the Graco Extend2Fit for her daughters, who were both born up to age six. The seat's adjustable height and length help it fit the needs of a variety of children from short to tall. It's an excellent option for a wide range of vehicles and comes with a modest 50-pound rear-facing weight limit. Additionally, the seat can be converted into a booster, which Trolio used for her daughter's oldest until she was 10 years old.
click this link is the Nuna RAVA. It doesn't have a base, but it is still easy to put in using the LATCH connectors that are rigid. They flip out of the bottom and turn green when the seat is attached to the vehicle. The RAVA is also a comfortable seat for infants, with a no-rethread harness and magnetic buckle holders that allow you to attach the straps without taking your baby from the seat. LaBracio also discovered the recline with six positions to be useful.
Options with a Forward-Facing
Children's necks can be cradled by the seat back in front-facing seats instead of being pushed forward onto the hard seat of a vehicle. This protects them from side collisions as well. The majority of car seats allow infants to ride rear-facing until they weigh over 20 pounds and one year old. Many experts advise that children remain rear-facing as long as they are able to. Their neck muscles and bones will be stronger when it's time to switch to a front-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 large harness pocket. Consider purchasing a car seat that will grow with your child and become a booster. 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 important to also consider whether the car seat will fit in your vehicle, particularly when it has a narrow trunk or low clearance. Take a look at the dimensions of the car seat and the owner's manual to ensure that the seat is the most appropriate fit.
Lastly, look for an automobile seat that offers adequate support and comfort for your child's body. Long journeys in the car will be more bearable in the event that they rest comfortably. This can include features like a reclining seat back as well as a five-point harness that can be tightened from the back of the seat, and a variety of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed your options, think about crash replacement policies for the car seat you're considering. These could be anything from a manufacturer's replacement policy, to a specific case review.
After you've done your homework and determined what kind of car seat you're interested in It's time to begin looking around. You can also ask your friends who have children to recommend. You can also request an appointment for a Rockridge Kids consultation with a CPST to help you select the right car seat for your baby.