Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A car seat that is safe and secure keeps your baby secure, comfortable and safe on the road. Which is the most suitable for your child?
The right choice for infant car seat newborn seats isn't easy. There are so many features to take into consideration, such as latch hooks, belt paths, and load legs. Here's what you must be aware of in order to make the right choice for your family.
Easy of Use
If you're looking for a baby car seat for your baby or upgrading from a toddler's car seat, you'll need one that is easy to install and use. Think about the size of the base and the car, as well as how the seat is suited to your baby's weight and height, and additional features that are convenient, such as a lay-flat option that doubles as a stroller bassinet.
Infant-only chairs are a good option for infants because they're generally smaller than convertible car seats and fit infants more comfortably. They also have a harness that supports your child's fragile head in the event of a collision which reduces the tension on their neck and spinal cord.
Convertible car seat are ideal for parents who wish to keep their baby seat rear-facing for as long as they can. Most models let the child rear-facing for 30 pounds or greater. Look for a convertible seat that complies with federal safety regulations and has a weight minimum of 50 pounds.
When looking for a car seat it's important to remember that, even though all car seats must conform to the strict NHTSA safety standards There are plenty of different models available on the market. To avoid the burden and risk of a defective or dangerous seat, make sure you choose one certified by a reputable company or organization, and check for recalls in the past and complaints from the manufacturer.
The best car seats are constructed with skin-friendly materials, plush padding, and various recline positions. Some of them also have padding in the buckle area and on the shoulder harness to help your newborn stay comfortable during long journeys. If you have a smaller vehicle opt for an infant car seat newborn seat that is narrow, such as the Clek Liing, which is less than 17 inches wide and is easy to install in most vehicles. The UPPAbaby Mezza Max which can be used together with UPPAbaby Strollers is a great option for families in search of a simple car seat. The harness that retracts automatically, EZ buckle and premium lower anchor connectors are all very easy to use.
Safety Features
If you're in search of a safe, lightweight infant car seat to take your baby on long journeys or want to ensure that your baby is comfortable for the duration of a ride There are some key aspects that are important to keep in mind. First, consider the height and weight limit of your infant car seat. This will determine how long your child can be safely in the seat and so, consider a model that can be adjusted to at least your child's 90th percentile measurement prior to when they turn 1. Consider whether you want to cover an overcoat or blanket over the straps of your harness. The AAP cautions against this, since heavy clothing may be compressed in a crash and make the straps too loose to hold your child, increasing the risk of injuries.
Other considerations include whether you intend to install your car seat with a vehicle belt 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 is best to select one that is easily fitted onto an appropriate base. This will save you time and energy since you won't need to take off and reinstall the seat every time you take a trip in the car.
The Cybex Cloud G Lux, which was awarded Best of The Bump, was praised in our tests for its ease of installation and adjustments. Testers stated that it "has everything you need to ensure a fast, easy installation." It comes with premium LATCH connectors that flip out from the base and become green when connected, plus a SuperCinch strap tightener that can force-multiply and an adjustable foot with springs.
Another option is the budget-friendly Baby Trend Secure-Lift We've found it to be as simple to use as other models that cost twice as much. Our test participants have applauded it for its five-position, height-adjustable headrest that grows with your baby with a no-rethread harness and magnetic buckle holders.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade is a great choice for newborns because of its unique 180-degree sleeping position. This allows them to rest comfortably and for longer on travel. It is also praised for its safety by consumer champion Which? calling it 'one of the most secure infant car seats cheap car seats available' and ADAC giving the highest lab rating for an infant car seat.
Rear-facing Options
In most cars the most secure position for infants is in the rear seat at the center. The seat in the center is most away from any collision, and will shield your baby best car seat for newborn (Related Web Page) in an accident. If you can, opt for a car seat that lets your child ride rear-facing until about a year old. It is also important to make sure the car seat is properly installed and that the headrest is placed comfortably against your child's chest and head. Consult a certified child passenger technician who can 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 choose for your baby will be a major purchase, and you'll use it for a long time. You'll want one that has 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 option for parents who are looking for a budget-friendly rear-facing infant car seat for travel car seat. It scored well in our analysis and sensor test. It comes with an easy-to-use LATCH system that changes color to show when the buckle straps are properly attached to the car. It also has a load-leg that helps prevent frontal collisions.
Jen Trolio, senior editor at Strategist and mother of two, opted for the Graco Extension2Fit to fit her daughters, who were both from birth until age six. The harness's adjustable size and height allows it to fit children of all sizes, including taller ones. It's a great choice for a wide range of vehicles and comes with a modest 50-pound weight limit for rear-facing children. The seat also converts into a booster, which Trolio used for her oldest daughter until she was 10 years old.
Another option that is affordable is the Nuna RAVA. It doesn't have a base, but it is still simple to put in using the LATCH connectors, which are rigid. They can be flipped out from the bottom and then turn green when the seat is attached to the vehicle. The RAVA is comfortable for babies with a no rethread harness. Magnetic buckle holders make it easy to secure the straps without having to take your child from the car seat. It also has an adjustable recline of six positions which LaBracio found useful.
Forward-Facing Options
In front-facing seats children's necks are held in the back of the seat instead of being pushed forward by the hard seat of a vehicle. This also helps protect them better in side crashes. Most car seats allow infants up to 20 pounds and one year old to ride rearward. Many experts advise that children remain rear-facing for as long as they can. Their neck muscles and bones will be stronger when it's time to switch to an front-facing seat.
If you are looking for alternatives for forward-facing seats, ensure they meet the iSize standards with a padded seat pocket and a padded seat headrest. Check the maximum height and weight limit and think about purchasing a car seat that will be able to grow with your child until they are a booster seat. Some models come with an all-in one feature that allows your child to go 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, particularly if it has a small trunk or low clearance. Make sure to check the seat's dimensions and the owner's manual to ensure that the seat is the best fit.
Lastly, look for a car seat that provides good support and comfort for your child's body. Long journeys in the car will be less stressful if they can sleep comfortably. This could include features such as a reclining headrest, a five-point harness that can be adjusted from the back of the seat and a wide range of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed your options, consider crash replacement policies for the car seat you're considering. These could be anything from a manufacturer's replacement policy to an individual case review.
After you've done your homework and determined what type of car seat you're interested in It's time to begin looking around. You can also ask your friends with 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.