Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A well-designed car seat will keep your baby safe, comfortable and secure on the road. Which one is the best for your baby?
With features such as latch hooks, load legs and belt paths to consider, selecting the right infant car seat can be daunting. Here's what you should be aware of to make the best choice for your family.
Easy of Use
Whether you're shopping for a car seat for your infant for your baby or upgrading from a toddler's car seat, you'll need a model that is easy to install and use. Take into consideration the size of the base and the car, how well the seat is suited to your baby's height and weight, and additional features that are convenient, such as a lay-flat option that can also double as a bassinet for your stroller.
Infant-only chairs are a good option for newborns because they are typically shorter and fit more snugly than convertible car seats. They also have a harness that supports your child's delicate head in the event of a crash, which can reduce stress on their neck and the spinal cord.
Convertible car seat are ideal for parents who wish to keep their baby rear-facing for as long as they want. The majority of models allow children to ride rear-facing until 30 pounds or more. If you opt for a convertible car seat, you should look for one that is compliant with the federal safety standards and has a weight limit of 50 pounds or more.
It's important to keep it in mind that, despite the fact that all car seats must meet strict NHTSA standards, there are many different models available. Select a car seat that has been certified by a reputable organization or company. Also, be sure to look for recalls or complaints from the manufacturer.
The top-rated car seats for newborns feature skin-friendly fabrics, plush padding and a range of recline positions. Some even have additional padding near the buckle area and on the shoulder harness to help your baby remain comfortable on long journeys. If you drive a smaller car choose a narrow infant seat like the Clek Liing, which is less than 17 inches wide and is easy to install in most cars. The UPPAbaby Mesa Max, which is specifically designed for use with strollers made by UPPAbaby, is another ideal option for families that require a car seat with no fuss that's easy to use. Its auto-retracting straps, EZ buckle and connectors for lower anchors that are premium with guides, and a no-rethread harness make it easy to use on every car journey.
Safety Features
You should consider some aspects when selecting the right infant car seat. If you want to ensure your baby is safe throughout the entire ride or are looking for a light and safe car seat for your child to take on long trips, you need to consider some of the features. Be aware of the weight and height limits of your infant seat. This will determine the length of time your child can safely spend in the seat. Look for a model that can be used up to your child's 90th centile measurement before turning one. Also, consider whether you'd like to wear a coat or blanket over the harness straps. The AAP cautions against this as thick clothing can compress in the event of a crash, making straps too loose for your child to be restrained which increases the risk of injury.
You should also think about whether your car seat can be secured via the LATCH system or a belt on a vehicle, and if it is compatible with other strollers or other travel systems. If you intend to use your seat for the majority of your car rides 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 have to take out and reinstall your seat each time you drive.
In our tests the Best of The Bump-winning Cybex Cloud G Lux earned top marks for ease of installation and adjustments, with users commenting that it "has everything you need to have a quick and easy installation." This includes LATCH connectors of premium quality that slide out of the base, and turn green when they are fully connected. Also included is a SuperCinch force multiplier strap tightener and a spring-loaded leveling feet.
Another great option is the Baby Trend's budget-friendly Secure-Lift We've found it to be as simple to use as other models that cost twice as much. The adjustable headrest that can be adjusted to five positions, which grows with your child's development and its magnetic buckle holders and no-rethread harness have been highly praised by our test subjects.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade makes an excellent choice for babies, thanks to its unique 180-degree sleep position. This lets them sleep comfortably and longer during road trips. It's also praised for its safety, with consumer champion Which? calling it 'one of the safest infant car seats available' and ADAC awarding the highest lab rating for a car seat that is suitable for infants.
Rear-Facing Options
In most vehicles the most secure position for infants is in the middle rear seat. The position in the center is the most secure from any impact that could occur and will protect your child the best in the event of a crash. You should select a car seat for infants that allows your child to ride 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 is snug against your child's head and chest. Find a certified child passenger technician who will provide you with the most up-to date guidelines for car seat installation and use. Find one in your area here.
The car seat you select for your newborn is a significant investment, and you'll use it for many years. You'll want a seat that has a good crash test score as well as an analysis score. It should also include features that will keep your baby comfortable. The Clek LIing is a great choice for parents seeking an infant rear-facing seat that is affordable. It scored well in our analysis and sensor test. It has an easy LATCH system that changes color to indicate whether the buckle straps have been 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 with her daughters who both went from birth until age 6. The harness's adjustable height and size allows it to fit children of all sizes and heights, including taller ones. It's a good option for a variety of vehicles. It also comes with a modest 50-pound weight limit for rear-facing children. Additionally, the seat can be converted into a booster seat, which Trolio used for her oldest daughter until she was 10 years old.
Another option that is reasonably priced is the Nuna RAVA. It does not have a base, but it's still easy to install with the LATCH connectors, which are rigid. They slide out from the bottom and turn green when the seat is secured to the vehicle. The RAVA is also a comfortable seat for babies, thanks to the harness being non-rethread and has magnetic buckle holders that allow you to attach the straps without taking your baby from the seat. It also comes with an adjustable recline of six positions that LaBracio found to be useful.
Forward-Facing Options
In front-facing seats the necks of children are held in the back of the seat instead of being pushed forward by the car seat that is hard. This is a way to protect them from collisions with the sides. Most car seats allow children to ride rear-facing until they are over 20 pounds and a year old. However, many experts recommend that children remain rear-facing as long as they can, as their neck muscles and bones will be stronger when they're ready to switch to an forward-facing seat.
When considering options for forward-facing car seats ensure that they meet i-Size requirements, have a padded head rest, and a deep harness pocket. Check the maximum height and weight limits, and consider purchasing a car seat that will grow with your child into a booster seat. Certain models come with an all-in-one option that allows you to move your child from a rear-facing car seat (with tether and harness) to a forward-facing seat with a harness, and then to a booster seat.
It is also important to think about whether the seat fits your vehicle, particularly if you have a small trunk space or a car with a low clearance. Check the car seat's dimensions and the owner's manual for the most appropriate fit.
Finally, you should look for a car seat that has good support and comfort for your child's body. top rated infant car seats in the car will be easier in the event that they sleep comfortably. This can include features like a reclining headrest, a five-point harness that can be tightened from the back of the seat and a variety of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed down your options, consider crash replacement policies for the car seat you're considering. These policies can vary from the manufacturer's replacement policy, to a case-by-case review.
After you've done your research and determined the type of car seat you'd like You can begin looking. You can also ask family members with young children for recommendations. You can also schedule an appointment with a CPST at Rockridge Kids to help you find the right car seat for your infant.