The No. One Question That Everyone In Car Seat For Newborn Should Be Able To Answer
Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A good car seat will ensure your baby is safe and secure while driving. But which one is most suitable for your baby?
With features such as latch hooks, load legs, and belt paths to consider, choosing the best infant car seat isn't easy. Here's what you should consider to make the right choice for your family.
Ease of Use
You'll want to select an option that is easy to set up and use, whether you're purchasing an infant car seat for a newborn or upgrading your toddler's car seat. Think about the size and weight of your child, the size of the seat that will fit in the car and any additional features, such as the lay-flat option that can also be used as a stroller.
Infant-only chairs are a good option for newborns because they are typically shorter and fit more comfortably than convertible car seats. They also provide a harness that can support your child's head, which is fragile in a crash, which can reduce tension on their neck and spinal cord.
Convertible car seats are perfect for parents who plan to keep their infants rear-facing for as long as is possible because the majority of these models allow children to ride in a rear-facing position up to the point that they're 30 pounds or greater. Choose a convertible car seat that is compliant with federal safety standards and has a a weight limit of at least 50 pounds.
It's important to keep in mind that even though all car seats must meet strict NHTSA standards there are a myriad of models available. To avoid the burden and risk of a defective or dangerous seat, select one that's approved by a reputable business or organization, and check for recalls in the past and manufacturer complaints.
The top-rated car seats for babies feature skin-friendly fabrics, plush padding and a range of recline positions. best infant car seat pushchairsandprams.uk of them also have padding in the buckle area and on the shoulder harness to help your infant remain comfortable on long road trips. If you drive a smaller car choose an infant seat that is narrow, such as the Clek Liing one, which is just 17 inches wide and easy to install in most vehicles. The UPPAbaby Mezza Max, which can be used together with UPPAbaby Strollers is a great choice for families in search of an easy car seat. Its auto-retracting straps, EZ buckle, premium lower anchor connectors with guides, and a no-rethread harness make it easy to use on every car trip.
Safety Features
Whether you're looking for a safe, lightweight infant car seat to take your little one on long journeys or need to ensure your child is comfortable during the duration of a trip, a few key features are worth considering. Be aware of the weight and height limits of your infant car seat. This will determine how long your child can safely spend in the seat. Look for a model that is able to accommodate the 90th percentile of your child's height before turning one. Also, consider whether you might want to wear blankets or coats over the straps of the harness. The AAP warns against this because thick clothing can be compressed during a crash, leaving the straps loose enough for your child to be secured which increases the risk of injuries.
Other things to consider include whether you intend to install your car seat with a belt on your vehicle or the LATCH system, and whether it's compatible with other strollers or travel systems. If you plan to use your seat for the majority of your journeys in the car it's best to pick one that fits easily onto the base that is compatible with it. This will reduce time and energy because you won't have to remove and reinstall the seat each time you use the car.
In our tests the Best of The Bump-winning Cybex Cloud G Lux earned high marks for ease of installation and adjustments, with reviewers saying it "has everything you need for a quick and easy installation." It comes with premium LATCH connectors that open from the base and become green when connected, plus a SuperCinch force-multiplying strap tightener and a spring-loaded leveling foot.
The Baby Trend Secure Lift is another option worth considering. We found it to be easy to use and as affordable as other models that cost twice more. Its five-position adjustable headrest that adapts to your child's growth, its buckle holders that are magnetic, and its no-rethread harness have been highly praised by our test subjects.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade makes an excellent choice for babies due to its unique sleeping position of 180 degrees. This lets them rest comfortably and for longer on journeys. It has also been acknowledged for its safety by consumer advocate Which? saying it's one of the most secure infant car seats on the market and ADAC giving it their highest lab rating for a car seat for infants.
Rear-Facing Options
In the majority of cars, the safest place for a newborn is the rear seat. The position in the center is the most secure from any possible impact and will protect your child best in the event of a crash. If you are able, select an infant car seat that allows your baby to ride rear-facing until about a year old. It's also crucial to make sure the car seat is correctly installed and that the headrest fits snugly against your child's head and chest. The best way to accomplish this is to consult an accredited child safety technician who will provide you with the most current guidelines for car seat use and installation. Find the nearest one here.
Choosing the right car seat for your baby is a significant investment that you'll probably use for a long duration, so you'll need to select one that has an excellent crash test sensor and analysis score as along with features to keep your child safe. The Clek LIing is an excellent option for parents who are looking for a rear-facing infant seat that's affordable. It scored high in our sensor and analysis test. It comes with an easy LATCH system that changes color to indicate that the buckle straps have been properly attached to the car, and an extra load leg that helps avoid frontal collisions.
Jen Trolio, senior editor at Strategist and mother of two, utilized the Graco Extension2Fit to fit her daughters, who were both born until age six. The harness's adjustable height and size allows it to accommodate children of all sizes and heights, including taller ones. The seat is suitable for various vehicles, and it has a weight limit of 50 pounds rear-facing. Additionally, it can be converted into a booster seat that Trolio used with her oldest daughter to the time she reached 10 years old. old.
Nuna RAVA is a similar alternative. It doesn't have a base, however it's still easy to put in using the LATCH connectors that are rigid. They flip out from the bottom and turn green when the seat is attached to the vehicle. The RAVA is suitable for infants without rethreads. Magnetic buckle holders make it easy to secure the straps, without removing your baby from the car seat. LaBracio also liked the recline that has six positions.
Options with a Forward-Facing
Children's necks can be cradled by the back of the seat 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 infants as young as 20 pounds and 1 year old to ride in the rear. Many experts advise that children remain rear-facing as long as they are able to. Their neck muscles and bones are stronger when it's time to move to a front-facing seat.
When considering options for forward-facing car seats, make sure they meet i-Size requirements, have a padded head rest, and a deep harness pocket. Be sure to check the maximum height and weight limits and consider buying a car seat that can grow with your child into the position of a booster seat. Certain models have an all-in one feature that lets your child change 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 is a good fit in your vehicle, especially if it has a small trunk or low clearance. Take a look at the dimensions of the car seat and the owner's manual for the best fit.
Finally, you should look for an automobile seat that offers comfortable and adequate support for your child's body--long trips in the car will be less stressful if they can sleep comfortably. This can include features like an adjustable headrest or a five-point harness which can be tightened from the back of the seat, and a variety of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed down your options, think about crash replacement policies for the car seat you're considering. These can be anything from a manufacturer's replacement policy to an individual case review.
After you've done some research and determined what kind of car seat you'd like You can begin looking. Check out the selection at your local baby store or online retailer, and ask your 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 newborn.