Which is the
Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A quality car seat will keep your baby secure and comfortable while driving. Which one is the best for your baby?
With features like latch hooks, load legs and belt paths to consider, selecting the best infant car seat -
simply click the next document - can be a challenge. Here's what you need to know to make the best choice for your family.
User-Friendliness
Whether you're shopping for a car seat for your infant for your baby or upgrading from an
infant car seat for travel car seat, you'll want one that is easy to install and use. Take into consideration the weight and size of your child, the seat's fit in the car and any additional features, like the lay-flat option that can also be used as stroller.
Infant-only seats are a good option for babies as they're generally smaller than convertible car seats and fit newborns more snugly. They also have a harness that supports your child's delicate head in the event of a collision, which can reduce stress on their neck and spinal cord.
Convertible car seats are ideal for parents who want to keep their babies rear-facing for as long as they can because most models allow children to ride in a rear-facing position until they're 30 pounds or greater. Choose a convertible car seat that is compliant with federal safety standards and has a an upper limit of at least 50 pounds.
When you're looking for a car seat, it's important to keep in mind that even though all carseats must meet strict NHTSA safety standards There are a variety of different models available on market. Select a car seat that has been approved by a reputable company or company. Also, check for recalls or complaints from the manufacturer.
The
best car seats for infants have skin-friendly fabrics, plush padding, and a variety of recline positions. Certain car seats provide extra padding on the shoulder straps and around the buckle to keep your baby comfy during long road trips. If you have a smaller vehicle opt for an infant seat that is narrow, such as the Clek Liing that is under 17 inches in width and is easy to install in most cars. The UPPAbaby Mezza Max, that can be used in conjunction with UPPAbaby Strollers, is a great choice for families looking for an easy car seat. The harness that retracts automatically, EZ buckle and premium lower anchor connectors are all easy to use.
Safety Features
Whether you're looking for a secure, lightweight infant car seat to take your baby for long drives or need to ensure your baby is comfortable for the duration of your ride there are a few important aspects that are worth keeping in mind. First, think about the height and weight limits of your infant car seat. This will determine how long your baby can safely be in the car seat So, you should choose a seat that goes up to minimum your child's 90th percentile measurement prior to when they turn one. Consider whether you want to put an overcoat or blanket over the straps of the harness. The AAP cautions against this as heavy clothing may shrink during a crash, leaving the straps loose enough for your child to be restrained which increases the risk of injury.
You should also think about whether your car seat will be secured with the LATCH system, or a belt on a vehicle, and if it is compatible with other strollers or
travel infant car seat systems. If you plan to use your car seat for a majority of your journeys in the car it is best to select one that is easily fitted onto a base compatible with it. This will save you time and energy because you won't have to take out and reinstall your seat each time you drive.
In our testing the Best of The Bump-winning Cybex Cloud G Lux earned top marks for its ease of installation and adjustments, with users affirming that it "has everything you need for a fast and simple installation." It comes with premium LATCH connectors that slide out of the base, and then turn green once fully connected. Also included are a SuperCinch force multiplier strap tightener and a spring-loaded leveling foot.
Another option is the budget-friendly Baby Trend Secure-Lift that we've found to be just as simple to use as other models that cost twice as much. Its adjustable headrest in five positions, which grows with your child's growth as well as its magnetic buckle holders, and its harness that doesn't rethread have been praised by our testers.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade is the perfect choice for infants because of its unique sleeping position of 180 degrees. This allows them to rest comfortably and for longer on journeys. It's also been lauded for its safety, with consumer champion Which? saying it's one of the safest infant car seats on the market and ADAC giving it their highest lab rating for an infant car seat.
Rear-Facing Options
In most cars the most secure position for infants is the center rear seat. The center position is farthest from any possible impact and will safeguard your child from harm in the event of a crash. It is recommended to choose an infant car seat that allows your child to ride in a rear-facing position for around a year. It is also essential to ensure that the car seat is installed correctly and that the headrest is secure against your child's chest and head. The most efficient way to do this is to talk to an accredited child safety technician who will give you the most current recommendations for car seat use and installation. Find one in your area here.
The
car seats newborn seat you select for your baby will be a major investment, and you'll be using it for a long time. You'll want a seat that has a good crash test score as well as an analysis score. It should also come with features to keep your baby comfortable. The Clek LIing is a great choice for parents seeking a rear-facing infant seat that's affordable. It scored high in our analysis and sensor test. It has a simple LATCH system that changes color to indicate when the buckle straps are properly secured 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 to fit her daughters, who were both from birth until age six. The seat's adjustable harness height as well as length help it fit the needs of a variety of children from short to tall. It is suitable for numerous vehicles, and has a weight limit of 50 pounds rear-facing. Additionally, the seat can be converted into a booster, which Trolio used for her oldest daughter up to the time she was 10 years old.
Nuna RAVA is a different, affordable option. It doesn't have an base, but it is still easy to install using the LATCH connectors, which are rigid. They can be flipped out of the bottom and then turn green when the seat is attached to the vehicle. The RAVA is comfortable for babies without rethreads. The buckle holders are magnetic, making it easy to secure the straps, without removing your child from the car seat. It also features an adjustable recline of six positions which LaBracio found useful.
Options with a Forward-Facing
In front-facing seats, children's necks are cradled in the back of the seat instead of being pushed forward by the car seat that is hard. This also helps protect them from injuries in side crashes. Car seats typically allow infants to sit rear-facing until they are over 20 pounds and a year old. However, a lot of experts recommend that children remain rear-facing as long as possible--their neck muscles and bones will become stronger by the time they're ready for a forward-facing car seat.
If you're looking for alternatives for forward-facing seats, be sure they meet the iSize standards, have a padded harness pocket, and a padded seat headrest. Consider buying a car seat which will grow with your child, and then 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 is also important to think about whether the seat fits your vehicle well, especially 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 owner's manual of the vehicle to ensure the best fit.
Find a car seat that provides good support and comfort to your child. Long trips in the car will be more enjoyable when they are able to rest comfortably. This may include features like the ability to recline the seat back, a five point harness that can be tightened from the back of the seat, and a range of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed down your options, think about the policies regarding crash replacement for the car seat you're thinking of buying. These can vary from a manufacturer's replacement policy to a personal case review.
Once you've done your research and determined the kind of car seat you're interested in, it's time to start shopping around. Take a look at the options available at your local baby store or online retailer and ask parents of young children for their recommendations. You can also request a Rockridge Kids consultation with a CPST to assist you in choosing the right car seat for your newborn.
