Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?

A good car seat can keep your baby safe and comfortable while on the road. Which one is the best for your baby?

Selecting the best rotating infant car seat car seat isn't easy. There are many features to consider such as latch hooks, belt paths, and load legs. Here's everything you need be aware of to make the right choice for your family.

Easy of Use

You'll want to choose an option that is easy to install and use, whether you're buying a car seat for a newborn or upgrading your toddler's car seat. Think about the size and weight of your child, the seat's fit in your car, and any extra features, like a lay-flat option which can also be used as a stroller.

portable infant car seat-only seats can be an ideal option for infants because they tend to be smaller and fit more snugly than convertible seats. They also come with a harness that supports your child's delicate head in the event of a collision and reduces tension on their neck and the spinal cord.

Convertible car seats are perfect for parents who want to keep their children rear-facing as long as possible since most of these models let children ride in a rear-facing seat until they weigh 30 pounds or more. If you opt for a convertible car seat, look for one that meets federal safety standards and has a weight limit of 50 pounds or more.

When looking for a car seat it's important to remember that, even though all car seats must conform to strict NHTSA safety standards, there are a lot of different models available on the market. Choose a seat that is certified by a reputable organization or company. Also, check for recalls or complaints from the manufacturer.

The top-rated car seats for infants have skin-friendly fabrics, plush padding, and a range of recline positions. Some of them also have padding around the buckle and on the shoulder harness to help your baby stay comfortable during long road trips. If you have a smaller vehicle opt for an infant seat that is narrow, such as the Clek Liing, which is just 17 inches wide and is easy to install in a majority of vehicles. The UPPAbaby Mezza Max, that can be used in conjunction in conjunction with UPPAbaby Strollers, is a great choice for families in search of an easy 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 looking for an infant safe, lightweight car seat to take your child for long drives or need to ensure your child is comfortable for the duration of a trip there are a few important aspects that are important to keep in mind. Consider first the height and weight limit of your infant car seat. This will determine the length of time your baby seat can safely be in the seat. Choose a seat that can be used up to the 90th percentile of your child's height prior to turning 1. Consider whether you'd like to use blankets or coats on the harness straps. The AAP recommends against this since thick clothing can cause a collapse and leave the straps too loose to hold your child, increasing the chance of injuries.

Other factors to consider are whether you're planning to attach your car seat with a belt on your vehicle or the LATCH system, and if it's compatible other strollers or travel systems. A seat that can easily fit onto a compatible base is ideal if you plan to use it for a majority of your car trips, as you'll save time and energy by not having to take it off it and put it back in place every time you use the vehicle.

The Cybex Cloud G Lux, which was awarded best car seat for Newborn of The Bump, scored top marks in our tests for its ease of installation and adjustment. Testers stated that it "has everything you need to ensure a fast, easy installation." This includes premium LATCH connectors that can be flipped out from the base and become green when connected, and a SuperCinch strap tightener that can force-multiply and an adjustable foot with springs.

The Baby Trend Secure Lift is another great option. We found it to be as user-friendly and affordable as models that cost twice more. Our test subjects have applauded it for its five-position, height-adjustable headrest that grows with your baby harness, no-rethread harness, and magnetic buckle holders.

The Maxi-Cosi jade is an excellent choice for babies due to its unique 180-degree sleeping position. This allows them to rest comfortably and for longer on road trips. It has also been acknowledged for its safety by consumer champion Which? ADAC awarding it the highest lab rating for car seats for infants.

Rear-facing Options

In most cars, a newborn's safest position is in the middle rear seat. The position in the center is the most secure from any impact that could occur and will safeguard your child the best in the event of the event of a crash. If you are able, opt for a car seat that allows your baby to sit rear-facing up to an year old. It's also important to make sure the car seat is installed correctly and that the headrest fits against your child's chest and head. The easiest way to do this is to talk to a certified child passenger safety technician who will provide you with up-to-date recommendations for car seat use and installation. Find one in your area here.

The choice of a car seat for your newborn is a significant investment that you'll probably use for a long period of time, so it's important to select one that has an amazing crash test sensor and analysis score, as along with features to keep your child safe. The Clek LIing is a great option for parents who are seeking a rear-facing infant seat that's affordable. It scored well in our analysis and sensor test. It has an easy LATCH system that changes color to indicate that the buckle straps are properly secured to the car. It also has 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 from birth up to age six. The seat's adjustable harness height and length help it fit all children from short to tall. It's a good option for a wide range of vehicles. It comes with a modest 50-pound limit on rear-facing weight. Plus, the seat converts into a booster seat, which Trolio used for her oldest daughter up to the time she was 10 years old.

Another affordable option is the Nuna RAVA. It does not have a base as the majority of seats, however it is still very simple to put in by using either of the rigid LATCH connectors, which flip out from the bottom of the seat. They automatically turn green when connected to the vehicle. The RAVA is also a comfortable seat for babies, with the harness being non-rethread and has magnetic buckle holders that allow you to fasten the straps without having to remove your child from the seat. LaBracio also liked the recline that has six positions.

Options with a Forward-Facing

Children's necks can be cradled by the seat back in front-facing seats instead of being pushed forward on the hard seat of a vehicle. This also helps protect children from side-impacts better. Car seats typically allow infants to ride rear-facing until they are over 20 pounds and one year old. Many experts suggest that children remain rear-facing as long as they can. Their neck muscles and bones are stronger when it's time to switch to a front-facing seat.

When considering options for forward-facing car seat, ensure that they meet i-Size specifications, have a padded head rest, and a spacious harness pocket. Be sure to check the maximum height and weight limits and consider buying a car seat that can expand with your child to an adult booster seat. Some models have an all-in-one option that allows the child to be moved from a rear-facing car seat (with harness and tether) to a forward facing infant car seat-facing car seat that has a harness and then into the booster seat.

It's also important to determine whether the seat will fit in your vehicle, particularly in the case of a tiny trunk space or a vehicle with a low clearance. Take a look at the dimensions of the car seat and the owner's manual for the most appropriate fit.

Lastly, look for a car seat that provides adequate support and comfort for your child's body. Long trips in the car will be less stressful when they are able to sleep comfortably. This can include features like a reclining headrest and a five-point harness that can be adjusted from the back of the seat and a variety of recline positions.

After narrowing down your options, think about the policies on crash replacement for the car seat you're considering. These could range from a manufacturer’s replacement policy, to a specific case review.

After you've done your homework and determined what kind of car seat you're looking for now is the time to start shopping around. You can also ask your friends with young children for recommendations. You can also request an appointment for a Rockridge Kids consultation with a CPST to help you select the best car seat for a newborn.