Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A well-designed car seat will keep your baby safe, secure and comfortable when you're on the road. Which one is the best for your baby?
Choosing the right infant car seat can be difficult. There are so many features to consider such as latch hooks, belt paths and load legs. Here's what you should be aware of in order to make the right buying decision for your family.
Easy of Use
Whether you're shopping for an infant car seat for your newborn or if you're upgrading from a toddler's car seat, you'll need an option that is simple to install and use. Consider the size and weight of your child, the size of the seat that will fit in your car, and any extra features, such as lay-flat options that can also be used as stroller.
Infant-only chairs are a good choice for small babies because they're typically narrower than convertible car seats and can fit babies more comfortably. They also have a harness that supports your child's delicate head in a crash and reduces strain on their neck and the spinal cord.
Convertible car seats are perfect for parents who plan to keep their children rear-facing as long as possible because most models allow children to ride in a rear-facing position up to the point that they're 30 pounds or greater. If you choose to purchase a convertible car seat, you should look for one that meets the safety standards of the federal government and has a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds or more.
When you're looking for a car seat, it's important to keep in mind that even though all carseats must be in compliance with strict NHTSA safety standards, there are a lot of different models available on the market. Select a car seat that has been certified by a trusted organization or company. Also, be sure to look for recalls or complaints from the manufacturer.
The most rated car seats for babies feature skin-friendly fabrics, plush padding and a variety of recline positions. Some car seats come with additional padding on the shoulder straps and around the buckle to keep your baby comfortable during long roadtrips. If you have a small vehicle, consider an infant car seat that is narrow, such as the Clek Liing. It's less than 17 inches wide and is easily installed in all automobiles. rotating infant car seat , that is compatible in conjunction with UPPAbaby Strollers, is a great option for families looking for a simple car seat. Its auto-retracting straps, EZ buckle and premium lower anchor connectors with guides, and a no-rethread harness make it simple to use for every car trip.
Safety Features
Whether you're looking for an infant safe, lightweight car seat to take your little one on long journeys or want to ensure that your baby is comfortable for the duration of a ride, a few key features are important to keep in mind. Be aware of the weight and height limits of your infant car seat. This will determine how long your baby can be safely in the seat So, you should choose a seat that is able to reach minimum your child's 90th percentile measurement before they turn 1. Consider whether you would like to put a blanket or coat on the harness straps. The AAP advises against this, because thick clothing could cause a collapse and leave the straps too loose to hold your child, thereby increasing the risk of injuries.
You should also consider whether your car seat can be installed via the LATCH system or a vehicle belt or if it's compatible with other strollers or travel systems. If you plan to use your car seat for a majority of your driving it is best to select one that is easily fitted onto a base compatible with it. This will reduce time and energy because you won't have to remove and reinstall the seat every time you drive.
The Cybex Cloud G Lux, which won Best of The Bump, received top marks in our tests for its ease of installation and its ability to adjust. Testers stated that it "has everything you need to make a quick and easy installation." This includes premium LATCH connectors that open 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 great option is the affordable Baby Trend Secure-Lift We've found it to be as simple to use as other models that cost twice as much. Our testers have been raving about its five-position, height-adjustable headrest that can be adjusted to fit your child's height harness, 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 sleep longer and more comfortably on travel. It is also praised for its safety by the consumer advocate Which? ADAC awarding it the highest laboratory rating for car seats for infants.
Rear-Facing Options
In most vehicles, a newborn's safest position is the center rear seat. The center seat is most away from any collision, and will shield your baby from harm in the event of an accident. You should choose an infant car seat which allows your child to be in a rear-facing position for around an entire year. It is also important to ensure that the car seat is correctly installed and that the headrest fits comfortably against your child's head and chest. The easiest way to do this is to consult a certified child passenger safety technician who will provide you with up-to-date recommendations for car seat use and installation. Find one in your area here.
Choosing an infant car seat for your baby is a significant purchase that you'll likely be using for a very long time, so you'll want to choose a seat with an impressive crash test sensor and analysis score, as well as features to ensure your child's comfort. The Clek LIing is an excellent option for parents who are looking for an infant seat with a rear view that is affordable. It scored highly in our sensor and analysis test, has a simple LATCH system that changes color to indicate whether the buckle straps are properly secured to the car. It also has a load-leg to help prevent frontal collisions.
Senior editor of the Strategist magazine and mother of two Jen Trolio used the Graco Extend2Fit for her two daughters who both grew from birth to age 6. The harness's adjustable height and size allow it to accommodate children of all sizes and heights, including taller ones. It's a great option for a variety of vehicles. It also has a low, 50-pound rear-facing weight limit. Plus, it converts to a booster seat that Trolio used with her oldest daughter up until she turned 10 years young.
Another option that is reasonably priced is the Nuna RAVA. It does not have a base, but it is still easy to put in using the rigid LATCH connectors. They slide off the bottom and turn green when the seat is attached to the vehicle. The RAVA is also comfortable for babies, thanks to an unrethread harness that is not rethread and magnetic buckle holders that allow you to attach the straps without taking your child from the seat. LaBracio also liked the recline that has six positions.
Options with a Forward-Facing
Children's necks can be cradled by the seat back in front-facing seats, rather than being pushed forward on the car seat. This protects them from collisions with the sides. Car seats typically allow children to ride rear-facing until they weigh over 20 pounds and one year old. Many experts suggest that children remain rear-facing for as long as they can. Their neck muscles and bones will be stronger when it's time to move to the front-facing seat.
When looking for options for forward-facing seats, ensure they meet the i-Size standards, have a padded harness pocket, and a padded seat headrest. Check the maximum height and weight limit and think about purchasing an automobile seat that can be able to grow with your child until they are the position of a booster seat. Some models come with an all-in-one feature that lets your child go 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 will fit your vehicle properly, particularly in the case of a tiny trunk space or a car with an uninspiring clearance. Take a look at the dimensions of the car seat as well as the owners' manuals for your vehicle to determine the best fit.
Find 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 could include features like the ability to recline the seat back as well as a five-point harness that tightens from the back of the seat, and a variety of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed your options, consider the policies on crash replacement for the car seat you're thinking of buying. They can differ from a manufacturer's replacement policy to a case-by -case review.
After you've done your research and determined what kind of car seats you want then you can begin shopping. Check out the selection at your local baby store or online retailer, and talk to family members who have children for their recommendations. You can also book a consultation with a CPST at Rockridge Kids to help you find the right car seat for your infant.