How to Choose the Best Infant Carrier Car Seat
Parents should consider several factors when selecting the best infant car seat. Some parents are focused on safety features like the results of impact tests, while others are more concerned with convenience and ease of use.
The 3-in-1 design is versatile and can be used as an automobile seat, stroller or baby carrier. Our product testers love how simple it is to switch between modes.
Safety
While baby carriers are convenient however, they also carry a number of dangers, including falling and suffocation. Use your infant carrier according to the instructions, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding the weight and height of your child. Also, prior to purchasing make sure to check the CPSC's website for safety recalls. If your baby carrier is recalled not to use it and contact the manufacturer immediately to replace it.
It is also important to make sure that the infant car seat you choose to use is comfortable and easy to use. The best infant carriers will include adjustable waist belts that fit different body types, and a design that supports the development of the hip. You'll also want the carrier to have a front-facing inward and outward position as well as a back carry.
Some infant car seats include features like a plush infant insert, auto-retracting LATCH system and bubble level indicators for speedy installation and adjustments. Many models come with other features like an extended canopy or stroller compatibility.
If you're looking for a low-cost infant car seat with robust safety features, you should consider the Graco KeyFit 35. It has excellent crash test results and includes a plush infant insert to cradle newborns. This model is also GREENGUARD gold certified for chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet the highest standards of safety. The seat base that reclines has an anti-rebounding bar to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions and seven different headrest positions.
No matter what features you select, remember that infant car seats are meant to be used for transport only and are not meant to substitute for a crib or bassinet. Babies often die from falls or drowning when infant car seats are left unsupervised on soft or hard surfaces such as beds. In fact, a study found that more than 8,000 infants each year are treated for injuries sustained when baby carriers tip or roll over. You should also never leave a sleeping infant in car seats for longer than 15 minutes as they are at risk of overheating and death.
Easy of Use
Parents should also look for car seats that are easy to use. This includes a base that's easy to install in your car and a handle that is easy to lift out of the base and straps that can be adjusted without rethreading or moving the harness. Parents should also consider seats that have clearly labeled instructions and a base that has bubble levels that indicate when the seat is secure in the car.
The comfort factor is also crucial for babies, so it's important to choose an infant seat that is cushioned and provides plenty of support for their back and head. This includes seats with soft fabrics and straps that aren't hard or rough against the skin. Also, the more comfortable your child is in the car seat, the less likely they'll to cry and, therefore, they'll be more secure during their journeys.
Some infant car seats come with additional features that make them more convenient. For example they come with a rotating feature that allows you to turn your baby toward you when putting them in or out of the seat. Furthermore some infant car seats snap directly into strollers, which is perfect for families who frequently switch cars or use public transport.
Also, you should look for a car seat that is easy to clean. Babies spit up, have diaper blowouts, and smear their sticky hands on everything, so it's best to choose a car seat that can be quickly wiped down or tossed in the washing machine without hassle.
An infant carrier is usually a rear-facing car seat that's suitable for infants and newborns between 13 and 13kg, or around four months old. You may prefer a convertible or all-in-one car seat, which can be adapted to your child's needs as they get older and can be used forward-facing when they're nine months old or older (9-18kg). However, this kind of car seat will take up more space in your car and won't fit into certain vehicles without a special adapter. Alternately, top rated baby car seats can purchase an infant car seat attachment for your existing stroller that is more flexible.
Convenience
A rear-facing infant car seat is one that connects to the vehicle's base. These seats are designed to keep infants safe and comfortable until they reach the limit of their weight and height. It is typically around 18kg. Some models can be converted into a travel system that can be used while on the move. These all-in-one car seats are ideal for families that need to switch cars frequently or travel frequently.
When you are choosing an infant car seat, you should look for one that is simple to install and adjust. Buckles, straps for installation and the handle must be simple to access and operate. The adjusters for the harness and headrest should be simple to adjust or loosen, particularly for children who grow quickly. Look for an intuitive design that has plenty of safety features like built-in bubble levels to help you achieve a proper fitting.
Certain models let you rotate the seat 360 degrees. This is useful when your child gets sleepy in the car, or when you are putting them into and out of the seat. Ideally, you should choose a car seat for infants that has the position of lying flat, which provides better support for babies and reduces their chances of sudden death.
A convenient handle or canopy can make a an enormous difference to your day-to-day routine. The best infant car seats have handles that require just one, simultaneous push to raise and lower. They are easy to use even if you have hands full or your child is asleep in the seat. Some seats also have an umbrella that can be easily taken down from the bottom to protect your child.
If you plan to travel with your baby a lot, an infant carrier car seat that has integrated ISOFIX connectors is an excellent option. They make it easier to install a seat using the seat belt of your vehicle. This is a safer alternative. They're also great for taxi rides, fly-drive holidays, and trips in hire cars or grandparent's vehicles.
Value
You don't need to spend an arm and a leg to get a quality infant car seat. Budget-friendly options like the Baby Trend Secure-Lift show that you don't need to sacrifice safety features to save money. This seat is certified by GreenGuard for low chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet the highest standards of safety. The Keepsafe(tm) and side-impact protection, and the adjustable base ensure that the seat grows with your child.
Other features that can save money include easy installation and removal and machine-washable fabric covers. Certain infant car seats offer convenient extras, such as an integrated stroller or a rotating capabilities. These features can help you save money if you are planning to use the seat for many years or switch between cars.
The weight and height limits are important to consider. If you plan to use the seat for a long period, you should choose a seat that can be able to accommodate your child up to the 90th percentile in height and weight. This can protect your baby from spinal cord injuries during the event of a collision.
If you're on a tight budget consider one with a smaller size, which will make it easier to fit the seat in smaller vehicles and cars. You can also find affordable models that have convenient features, such as an enormous canopy and numerous carrying positions.
Choose a seat you can use for several years. The Axkid One i-Size is suitable for newborns all the way to seven years old, which makes it a great value. Mum Rachael says "It is a great investment, and I'm saving money on future convertible car seats since it will fit my babies from birth."
Many parents seek an all-in-one solution with regards to their baby's gear. This Nuna car seat is a great option for families who are on a tight budget. Its safety features as well as conveniences, including a load-leg and an anti-rebound bar provide peace of mind. the premium fabrics, as well as convenient extras like the stroller lock and cup holder are sure to please.