How to Choose the Best Infant Carrier Car Seat
Parents should consider several factors when choosing the best infant car seat. Some parents are focused on safety features such as the results of impact tests, while others are more concerned with the convenience and ease of use.
A multi-functional 3-in-1 design that converts from a car seat to stroller and baby carrier. Our product testers love how easy it is to switch between different modes.
Safety
While baby carriers are convenient but they also come with a number of risks, such as falling and suffocation. Be sure to use your baby carrier according to the instructions, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines on appropriate position and weight and height guidelines for your child. Check the CPSC website prior to purchasing to determine if there are any recalls for safety. If your baby's carrier is subject to recall not to use it and contact the manufacturer immediately to replace it.
Pushchairs And Prams is also important to make sure that the infant car seat you choose to use is comfortable and easy-to-use. For example, the best infant carrier will have waist belts that are able to expand to accommodate different body types, and an ergonomic design that aids your child's hip development. You should ensure that the carrier can be used in a forward-facing outward or inward-facing position, as well as an rear carry.
Certain infant car seats come with features like a plush insert for the infant and an auto-retracting latch system and bubble indicators for the level to make installation and adjustments easy. Many models include additional features like an extended canopy or stroller compatibility.
Consider the Graco KeyFit35 if you're looking for an infant car seat that is safe that is affordable. It is a top crash test results, and comes with an infant insert with a plush material to cradle newborns. It is also GREENGUARD Gold certified for chemical emissions, and JPMA certified to meet the industry's strictest safety standards. The reclining seat base comes with an anti-rebounding bar, which helps reduce movement in rear-end crashes and seven different headrest positions.
Whatever features you pick, bear in mind that infant car seats should only be used for transportation. They are not designed to replace a crib or bassinet. Infant car seats left unattended in furniture or on soft surfaces like beds can cause babies to fall and suffocate. In fact, a study has found that more than 8,000 infants each year are treated for injuries suffered when baby carriers tip or roll over. You should also never leave a baby in the car seat for more than 15 minutes, as they could be at risk of overheating and even death.
Simple to Use
Parents should also look for car seats that are simple to use. This includes a base that is easy to install into your vehicle, a handle which is easy to lift from the base, and straps that are easily adjustable without having to rethread or move the harness. Parents should also look for a seat with clearly marked instructions and a base with bubble levels built-in to indicate whether the seat is secured in the car.
Children also require to be comfortable, so search for a seat with plenty of padding and support for the head and back. This includes seats that feature soft fabrics and straps that aren't stiff or rough against the skin. The more comfortable your car seat is, the less likely your child will cry. This means that they'll be safer during the ride.
Certain infant seats have additional features that make them more practical, such as a rotating feature that allows the baby to look at you when they get in and out of the seat. Furthermore, some infant car seats click directly into strollers, which is perfect for families that frequently switch cars or use public transport.
It's also worthwhile to look for a seat with a simple cleaning process. Baby's spit-up, diaper blowouts and sticky hands can make it difficult to clean the seat.
Infant carriers are rear-facing car seats that are suitable for babies and newborns weighing up to 13kg, or 4 months old. Depending on your preferences you may want to consider an all-in-one or convertible seat, which is designed to adapt with your child as they reach toddlerhood and can be used as a forward-facing car seat when they're nine months old or older (9 to 18kg). However, this kind of car seat requires more space in the car and will not fit into certain vehicles without an adapter. You can also purchase an infant car attachment for your stroller. This is a more adaptable option.
Convenience
An infant carrier car seat is a rear-facing vehicle seat that clicks into a base installed in your vehicle. They keep babies safe and comfortable from birth until they reach their weight and height limits, typically around 18kg. Some models can also be used as a travel system which allows you to convert them into a stroller for use on the go. These all-in one car seats are perfect for families that require changing vehicles or travel frequently.
When choosing an infant carrier car seat, you should look for one that is easy to set up and adjust. The buckles, installation straps and handle should be accessible and simple to use. The headrest and harness adjusters should be simple to tighten or loosen, particularly for children who grow rapidly. Choose a design that is simple and comes with many safety features, such as bubble levels that are built-in to help you achieve the ideal fit.
Certain models let you rotate the seat 360 degrees, which can be beneficial if your baby sleeps in the car or if you're trying to get them in and out of the seat. You should look for an infant car seat that has a flat position. This will give better support for your infant and decrease the risk of sudden deaths.
A handy handle and canopy are also features that can make a huge impact on your daily routine. Some of the best infant car seats feature handles that require a single push, which simultaneously raises and lower. This makes them very easy to use, even if your hands are stuffed or your child is sleeping in the seat. Some seats also have a canopy that can be taken down from the bottom to safeguard your child.
If you plan to travel with your baby often, an infant car seat with integrated ISOFIX connectors is a good option. They make it easier to install the seat by using the seat belt of your vehicle and is a more secure alternative. They're also great for taxi rides, fly-drive holidays and trips in rental cars or grandparents' vehicles.
Value
A good infant car seat isn't expensive however, you don't have to spend a fortune also. The Baby Trend Secure Lift is a great example of a budget-friendly choice that doesn't sacrifice safety for cost-savings. This seat is certified by GreenGuard for low chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet the highest standards of safety. The Keepsafe(tm), side-impact protection and a movable base ensure that the seat grows with your child.
Other features that can save money include easy removal and installation, and machine-washable fabric covers. Some infant car seats include useful extras like strollers built-in or a rotation feature. These features can help cut costs if you are planning on using the car seat for a long period of time or regularly change between cars.
Another aspect to consider is the weight and height limits of the seat. If you are planning to use the seat for a long time, select a seat that can be able to accommodate your child up to the 90th percentile of height and weight. This will help protect your child from spinal injuries if you are involved in an accident.
If you're on a budget, choose one that is smaller. This makes it easier for the seat to be tucked away in smaller cars and vehicles. There are also budget-friendly models with practical features, such as a large canopy or multiple positions for carrying.
You'll also want to choose an item that can last for several years of use. The Axkid One is suitable for babies all the way up to seven years old, which makes it a fantastic value. Mum Rachael says, "It's a good investment and will save me money on convertible carseats because it's suitable for my kids from birth."
Many parents are looking for a solution that is all-in-one with regards to their baby's equipment. This Nuna car seat is a great choice for families with an extremely tight budget. Its safety and convenience features, including the load leg and anti-rebound bar, provide peace of mind. Meanwhile, its top-quality fabrics and useful extras, such as a stroller base lock as well as a cup holder, are sure to please.