How to Choose the Best Infant Carrier Car Seat

Parents should take into consideration a variety of factors when selecting the best infant car seat. Some parents are focused on safety features such as the impact test results, while others are more concerned with convenience and ease of use.

A flexible 3-in-1 design that transforms from a car seat into stroller and baby carrier. Our product testers are impressed by the ease with which it is possible to switch modes.

Safety

While baby carriers can be convenient but they also come with many risks, like falling and suffocation. Be sure you use your infant carrier in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines on appropriate positioning and height and weight recommendations for your child. Before purchasing make sure to check the site of the CPSC for recalls and safety issues. If your baby's carrier has been recalled, don't use it. Contact the manufacturer to request an exchange.

You'll also need to make sure that your infant car seat is comfortable and easy-to-use. The best infant carriers have adjustable waist belts to fit different body types, and a design that aids hip development. It is important to ensure that the carrier can be used in a forward-facing, outward or forward-facing position, as well as an rear carry.

Some infant car seats come with features like a plush insert for the infant, an auto-retracting latch system and bubble indicator for level to make adjustments and installation quick. Many models include additional features, like an extended canopy or stroller compatibility.

If you're looking for a low-cost infant car seat that has strong safety features, consider the Graco KeyFit 35. It has superior crash test results and comes with a plush infant insert to cradle newborns. The model is also GreenGuard Gold certified for chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet industry's most stringent safety standards. The base that reclines is fitted with an anti-rebound bar in order to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. It offers seven different headrest positions.

Whatever features you choose, keep in mind that infant car seats should be used for transport. They are not designed to replace a bassinet or crib. Babies can and do die from falls and drowning when infant car seats are left unsupervised on soft surfaces or furniture like beds. In fact, a study has found that more than 8,000 infants each year are treated for injuries suffered when baby carriers tip over or roll over. It is also not recommended to let a sleeping baby in the car seat for more than 15 minutes, since this can put them at the risk of heat exhaustion and death.

Easy of Use

In addition to safety features, parents should search for a car seat that is simple to use. This includes a base that is easy to install in your vehicle, a handle that's easy to lift out of the base and straps that can be adjusted without having to rethread or alter the harness. Parents should also consider a seat that has clearly labeled installation instructions and a base with built-in bubble levels that show whether it's secured in the vehicle.

Children also require to be comfortable, so search for a seat that offers plenty of padding and support for the head and back. This includes seats with soft fabrics and straps that aren't hard or rough against the skin. The more comfortable the car seat is the less likely that your child will cry. This means they'll be safer on the journey.

Some infant seats come with additional features that make them more practical. For example they come with a rotating feature that allows you to rotate the baby in your direction when putting them in or out of the seat. Certain infant car seats can be turned directly into strollers. This is great for families who frequently change vehicles or use public transportation.

It's also worth looking for a seat that is easy to clean. Babies vomit, suffer diaper blowouts, and smear their sticky hands on everything, so it's important to find an automobile seat that is easy to wipe down or tossed in the washer without much fuss.

An infant carrier is generally a rear-facing car seat suitable for babies and newborns up to 13kg or about four months old. You might want to consider an all-in one or convertible car seat, which can grow with your child as they get older and can be used forward-facing once they reach nine months old or older (9-18kg). This kind of car seat is bigger and may not fit in certain vehicles without an adapter. Alternately, you can purchase an infant car seat attachment for your existing stroller that is a more flexible option.

Convenience

An infant carrier car seat is a rear-facing vehicle seat that snaps into an existing base in your vehicle. These seats are designed to keep babies in a safe and comfortable environment until they reach their limits of weight and height. This is usually around 18kg. Some models can also be used as a travel system allowing you to convert them into a stroller for use while on the move. These all-in one car seats are ideal for families who need to change cars frequently or travel frequently.

When selecting an infant car seat swivel car seat, look for one that is easy to put in and adjust. The buckles, straps for installation and handle should all be easy to access and simple to operate. In the same way, the adjustable straps for the headrest and harness must be easy to tighten or loosen, particularly for children who are growing rapidly. Look for a design that is simple and comes with many security features, including bubble levels built into the design to ensure you get the right fitting.

Certain models let you rotate the seat 360 degrees, which is useful if your child is asleep in the car or you're putting them in or out of the seat. You should look for an infant car seat with a flat position. This will give better support for your baby and decrease the risk of sudden deaths.

A comfortable handle and canopy are also extras that can make a significant difference in your daily routine. Some of the best car seats newborn car seats for babies have handles that can be raised and lowered with a single button. This makes them easy to use even when your hands are stuffed or your child is sleeping in the seat. Some seats come with a canopy that can be pulled down easily from the bottom.

If you plan to travel with your child frequently then a car seat for infants with ISOFIX connectors is a good choice. They make it easier to install the seat by using the vehicle's seat belt, which is a safer alternative. These are also perfect for taxi rides, flying holidays and trips in grandparent's or rental car vehicles.

Value

A quality infant car seat isn't cheap however you don't have to blow your budget also. The lightweight baby car seat Trend Secure Lift is an excellent example of a budget-friendly alternative that doesn't sacrifice safety for savings in cost. The seat is GREENGUARD certified for low chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet the highest safety standards. The Keepsafe(tm), side-impact protection and adjustable base ensure that the seat will grow with your child.

Other cost-saving features include easy-to-use removal and installation, and machine-washable fabric covers. Certain infant car seats provide convenient features, such as the built-in stroller, or the rotation capabilities. These features can help you save money if you plan to use the seat for many years or change between cars.

The seat's weight and height limits are also important to be considered. If you plan to use the car seat for an extended period of time, choose one that can be used up to at least the 90th percentile for your baby's weight and height. This will help safeguard your child from spinal cord injuries during an accident.

If you're on a tight budget, consider a model that is slimmer. This will make it easier for the seat to be tucked away in smaller cars and vehicles. There are also budget-friendly models that come with practical features, such as a large canopy or multiple carrying positions.

It is also important to select a seat that can last for a few years of use. The Axkid One iSize is suitable for babies all the way up to seven years, which makes it a great value. Mum Rachael says, "It's a good investment and will save me money on convertible carseats because it's sized to fit my children from the time they are born."

Many parents are looking for an all-in-one solution when is about baby gear. A car seat that doubles as a stroller is perfect and this model from Nuna is a great option for families on a budget. Its safety features as well as conveniences, including a load-leg and an anti-rebound bar provide peace of mind, while its top-quality fabrics as well as convenient extras such as a stroller lock and cup holder will surely delight.