How to Choose the Best Infant Carrier Car Seat

Parents should take into consideration a variety of factors when choosing the best infant car seat. Some parents are focused on safety features, such as the impact test results, while others are more concerned with the convenience and ease of use.

A versatile 3-in-1 design that can be converted from a car seat into stroller and baby car. Our product testers appreciate how easy it is to switch between modes.

Safety

Baby carriers are practical, but they also pose a number risks, including falling and suffocation. Be sure you use your infant carrier according to the instructions, and follow the manufacturer's instructions on proper positioning and weight and height recommendations for your child. Also, prior to purchasing make sure to check the site of the CPSC for recalls and safety issues. If your infant carrier is recall, don't use it. Contact the manufacturer to get a replacement.

You'll also need to ensure that your infant car seat is comfortable and easy-to-use. For example, the best infant car seat should have waist belts that are able to expand to accommodate different body types, and the design will support your child's development of the hip. It is important to ensure that the carrier is forward-facing inward or outward position, and a rear carry.

Certain infant car seats come with features like a plush infant insert, auto-retracting LATCH system and bubble level indicators to speed up installation and adjustments. There are also other unique features, such as an extended canopy or stroller compatibility in a variety of models.

Take a look at the Graco KeyFit35 when you are looking for a safe infant car seat that is affordable. It has excellent crash test results, and comes with a comfortable insert for infants. The model is also GREENGUARD gold certified for chemical emissions and JPMA-certified to meet the highest safety standards. The reclining seat base comes with an anti-rebounding bar to reduce movement in rear-end crashes and seven different headrest positions.

Whatever features you pick, bear in mind that portable infant car seat car seats should only be used for transport. They are not meant to replace a bassinet or crib. Infant car seats left unattended in furniture or on soft surfaces such as beds can cause babies to fall and drown. In fact, a study found that more than 8,000 babies a year are treated for injuries suffered when baby carriers tip or roll over. You should also never leave a sleeping infant in the car seat for longer than 15 minutes, since this can put them at risk of overheating and even death.

Easy of Use

In addition to safety features, parents should search for a car seat that is easy to use. This includes a base that's easy to put in your vehicle and a handle that's simple to lift out of the base and straps that are easily adjusted without having to rethread or alter the harness. Additionally, parents should look for seats with clearly labeled installation guides and a base with built-in bubble levels that show that it's secure in the vehicle.

Children also require to be comfortable, so look for a seat that has plenty of padding and support for the back and head. This includes seats that have soft fabrics and straps that aren't stiff or rough against the skin. Also the more comfortable your child is in the car seat, the less likely they are to cry which means they'll be more secure on rides.

Certain infant seats have additional features that make them more convenient, such as a rotating feature that allows the baby to look at you when getting them in and out of the seat. Some infant car seats can be turned directly into strollers. This is great for families that frequently switch vehicles or use public transport.

It's important to find a seat with an easy cleaning process. Babies spit up, have blowouts from diapers, and rub their sticky hands on everything, so it's best to find a car seat that is easy to wipe down or tossed in the washer with no hassle.

Infant carriers are rear-facing car seats designed for babies and newborns up to 13kg, or 4 months of age. Depending on your lifestyle you may want to consider an all-in-one convertible or convertible car seat instead that are designed to grow with your child as they reach toddlerhood and can also be used as a forward-facing car seat when they're 9 months or older (9 to 18kg). However, this kind of car seat takes up more space in your car and won't fit into certain vehicles without an adapter. You can also purchase an infant car attachment for your stroller. This is a more adaptable option.

Convenience

A rear-facing infant carrier car seat is able to be inserted into the base of your vehicle. These seats keep newborns safe and comfortable from birth until they reach their weight and height limits, typically around 18kg. Some models can also be used as a travel system, which allows you to convert them into a stroller to use while on the move. These car seats that are all-in-one are perfect for families that need to switch cars frequently or travel often.

When you are choosing an infant car seat, choose one that is simple to install and adjust. Buckles, straps for installation, and the handle should be easy to reach and operate. The adjusters for the harness and headrest should be easy to tighten or loosen, especially for children growing rapidly. Choose a design that has plenty of safety features, such as built-in bubble levels to help you achieve a proper fit.

Certain models let you rotate the seat 360 degrees, which is useful if your child sleeps in the car or you're putting them in or out of it. Ideally, you should choose an infant car seat that has the position of lying flat, which offers better support for babies and lowers the chance of sudden death.

A handy handle and canopy are two additional extras that can make a significant impact on your day-to-day routine. Some of the best car seats for babies have handles that can be raised and lowered with a single press. This makes them simple to use, even if your hands are full or your child is sleeping in the seat. Some seats also have a canopy that can be taken down from the bottom to safeguard your child.

If you intend to travel frequently with your child the infant car seat travel car seat with ISOFIX connectors is a great choice. They make it simpler to attach a seat using the seat belt of your vehicle. This is a safer alternative. They're also great for taxi rides, fly-drive holiday and trips in hire cars or grandparent's vehicles.

Value

A quality infant car seat isn't inexpensive, but you don't need to spend a fortune either. Budget-friendly options like the Baby Trend Secure-Lift demonstrate that you don't need to sacrifice safety features to save money. This seat is GreenGuard Gold Certified for low chemical emissions and JPMA-certified, which means it meets the highest standards of safety. Its Keepsafe(tm) and side-impact protection systems give newborns the most effective protection possible while its three-position adjustable base and carry handle with four positions will ensure that it grows with your baby.

Other features that save money are simple removal and installation, and machines-washable fabric covers. Some infant car seat inserts for newborns seats offer convenient extras like the built-in stroller, or the rotation capabilities. These features can help cut costs if you intend to use the seat for a long time or often change between cars.

Another factor to consider is the weight and height limits of the seat. If you plan to use the seat for a longer period, you should choose a seat that is able to hold your baby up to the 90th percentile in height and weight. This will help protect your baby from spinal cord injuries in the event of a collision.

If you are on a budget, choose a model that is narrower. This makes it easier for the seat to fit into smaller vehicles and cars. There are also budget-friendly models, with useful features like the large canopy or multiple carrying positions.

It is also important to select an item that can last for several years of usage. The Axkid One is suitable for infants all the way up to seven years, which makes it a fantastic value. Mum Rachael says "It is a great investment, and I save money on convertible car seats as it is sized to fit my babies from birth."

Many parents are seeking an all-in-one solution for their children when it concerns baby equipment. A car seat that doubles as a stroller is ideal and this model from Nuna is a great choice for families with a tight budget. Its safety and convenience features, like an anti-rebound leg and load bar, give peace of mind. Meanwhile, its top-quality fabrics and useful features, such as a stroller base lock and cup holder will surely delight.