Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?

A well-designed car seat will ensure your baby is secure and comfortable on the road. Which one is most suitable for your child?

Choosing the right infant car seat isn't easy. There are a lot of features to consider such as latch hooks, belt pathways, and load legs. Here's everything you need to think about to make the best choice for your family.

Easy to Use

You'll want to choose an option that is easy to install and use, whether you're buying a car seat for a newborn or upgrading your toddler's car seat. Take into consideration the weight and size of your child, the seat's capacity in the car and any other features, such as a lay-flat option which can also be used as a stroller.

Infant-only chairs are an ideal option for infants because they are typically shorter and fit more snugly than convertible seats. They come with a harness that can ensure your child's head is supported in an accident, which will reduce the strain on their neck or the spinal cord.

Convertible car seat are ideal for parents who want to keep their child rear-facing for as long as they are able to. The majority of models allow children to rear-facing for 30 pounds or more. Choose a convertible car seat that meets federal safety standards and has a a weight minimum of 50 pounds.

When shopping for a car seat, it's important to consider that while all car seats must meet the strict NHTSA safety standards There are a variety of different models available on the market. Pick a seat certified by a trusted organization or company. Also, be sure to look 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 of them also have padding near the buckle area and on the shoulder harness to help your infant car seat travel remain comfortable on long travel. If you drive a smaller car, look for a smaller rotating infant car seat seat, such as the Clek Liing, which is less than 17 inches wide and easy to install in most vehicles. The UPPAbaby Mesa Max, which is specifically designed for use with strollers from UPPAbaby, is a ideal option for families that need a simple car seat that is easy to use. Its auto-retracting straps, EZ buckle and premium lower anchor connectors with guides, and a no-rethread harness make it easy to use for every car journey.

Safety Features

If you're in search of a safe, lightweight infant car seat to take your child on long journeys or want to ensure that your baby is comfortable for the duration of a ride there are a few important aspects that are worth considering. First, think about the height and weight limits of your infant car seat. This will determine the maximum time your child is able to safely stay in the seat. Look for a model that is able to accommodate the 90th centile of your child's height before turning one. Also, think about whether you might want to use blankets or coats over the harness straps. The AAP cautions against this, since heavy clothing may cause a collapse and leave the straps loose to secure your child, thereby increasing the chance of injuries.

Other things to consider include whether you're planning to attach your car seat using a vehicle belt or the LATCH system, and if it's compatible with other strollers or travel systems. If you plan to use your car seat for a majority of your car rides it is best to select one that can easily fit on a base compatible with it. This will save you time and energy because you won't have to remove and reinstall the seat every time you drive.

The Cybex Cloud G Lux, which was awarded 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 for a quick, painless installation." This includes premium LATCH connecters that slide out of the base and turn green when they are fully connected. Additionally, there is a SuperCinch force multiplier strap tightener as well as a spring-loaded leveling feet.

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 test subjects have praised it for its five-position headrest, height-adjustable that can be adjusted to fit your child's height harness, no-rethread harness, and magnetic buckle holders.

The Maxi-Cosi Jade is ideal choice for babies because of its unique 180-degree flat sleep position, which allows them to sleep longer and more comfortably during road trips. It has also been highly praised for its safety by the consumer advocate Which? ADAC giving it the highest lab rating for infant car seats.

Rear-Facing Options

In most cars, the safest place for a newborn is in the rear center seat. The seat in the middle is the furthest from any potential impact and will safeguard your child the best in the event of a crash. You should choose an infant car seat that allows your child to be in a rear-facing position for around one year. It's also important to make sure the car seat is set up correctly and that the headrest fits against your child's chest and head. The most efficient way to do this is to consult an experienced child passenger safety technician, who will provide you with up-to-date recommendations for car seat use and installation. Find the nearest one here.

The car seat you pick for your infant is a significant purchase, and you'll use it for many years. You'll want to choose a seat with a high crash test score and analysis score. It should also include features to keep your baby at ease. The Clek Liing is a great choice for parents who are looking for a low-cost rear-facing infant car seat for travel car seat. It scored extremely high in both our sensor and analysis tests. It comes with a simple LATCH system with an indicator that changes color and indicates when the buckle straps are properly attached to the car, as well as a load leg that can help prevent frontal crashes.

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 seat's adjustable harness height and length help it fit a range of children from short to tall. The seat is compatible with many vehicles, and it has an upper limit of 50 pounds rear-facing. It also converts into an adult seat that Trolio used with her oldest daughter until she turned 10 years young.

Nuna RAVA is another affordable option. It does not come with a base like most other seats, but is still extremely quick and easy to install by using either of the rigid LATCH connectors that flip out from the bottom of the seat. They automatically turn green when secured to the vehicle. The RAVA is suitable for infants with a no rethread harness. Magnetic buckle holders make it easy to secure the straps without having to remove your baby from the car seat. It also features an adjustable recline of six positions, 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 on the car seat that is hard. This also helps protect children from side-impacts better. Most car seats allow children to ride rear-facing until they weigh over 20 pounds and a year old. However, a lot of experts recommend that children remain rear-facing for as long as they can because their neck muscles and bones will become stronger by the time they're ready to move to an forward-facing seat.

When considering options for forward-facing car seats make sure they meet i-Size specifications, have a padded head rest, and a large harness pocket. You should consider buying a car seat that can grow with your child and become a booster. Some models have an all-in-one feature that lets your child move from a rear-facing car seat (with harness and tether) to a forward facing car seat.

It is important to consider whether the car seat will fit in your vehicle, especially if it has a small trunk or low clearance. Check the dimensions of the Car Seat For Newborn seat and vehicle owner's manual for the most appropriate fit.

Also, make sure you choose an automobile seat that offers adequate support and comfort for your child's body. Long trips in the car will be more bearable when they are able to rest comfortably. This can include features like a reclining seat back and a five-point harness that can be tightened from the rear of your seat and a range of recline positions.

Once you've narrowed your options, think about the policies regarding crash replacement for the car seat you're looking at. They can be anything from a manufacturer's replacement policy to a personal case review.

After you've done your homework and determined the type of car seat you're looking at, it's time to start shopping around. Look through the selections at your local baby store or online retailer and talk to family members who have children for recommendations. You can also schedule a consultation with a CPST at Rockridge Kids to help you find the right car seat for your infant.