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 focus on safety features, such as impact testing results, while others focus on the ease of use and comfort.
The 3-in-1 design is flexible and can be used as a car seat, stroller or baby carrier. Our product testers appreciate the ease with which it is possible to switch modes.
Safety
While baby carriers are convenient, they also carry several risks, such as falling and suffocation. Make sure to use your baby carrier as directed, following the manufacturer's instructions on proper positioning, as well as height and weight recommendations for your child. Before purchasing make sure to check the website of the CPSC to find safety recalls. If your baby's carrier is recalled, do not use it and immediately contact the manufacturer to request a replacement.
In addition, to ensure that your infant car seat meets the required safety standards, you'll want to look for one that is comfortable and easy to use. The best infant carriers will have adjustable waist belts to accommodate different body types, and a design which supports the development of the hip. The carrier should also be able to be front-facing with an inward and outward position and a back carry.
Some infant car seats include features like a plush infant insert, auto-retracting LATCH system and bubble level indicators to speed up installation and adjustments. Many models include additional features such as an extended canopy or stroller compatibility.
Take a look at the Graco KeyFit35 when you're looking for an infant car seat that is safe that is affordable. It is a top crash test results and comes with a soft insert for babies. The model is also GreenGuard Gold certified for chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet industry's strictest safety standards. Its reclining base is equipped with an anti-rebound bar that helps limit movement in rear-end collisions. It offers seven different headrest positions.
Whatever features you select, keep in mind that infant car seats should be used for transport. They are not meant to replace a crib or bassinet. Babies do die from falls and drowning when infant car seats are left on soft or hard surfaces such as beds. In fact, a study has found that more than 8,000 infants a year are treated for injuries sustained when baby carriers tip over or roll over. Do not leave a baby asleep in a car longer than 15 minutes, because it could cause overheating or even death.
Simple to Use
In addition to safety features, parents should search for a car seat that is easy to use. This includes a base that is easy to install into your vehicle, a handle that is easy to remove from the base, and straps which are easily adjustable without having to rethread or move the harness. Additionally, parents should look for seats that have clearly labeled installation instructions and a base with built-in bubble levels that indicate that it's secure in the vehicle.
Infants also need to be comfortable, so search for a seat with plenty of padding and support for the head and back. This includes seats with soft fabrics and straps that aren't stiff or rough against the skin. Additionally the more comfortable your child feels in the car seat, the less likely they'll be to cry and, therefore, they'll be more secure during their the ride.
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 the baby towards you when you put them in or out of the seat. Additionally, some infant car seats snap directly into strollers, which is great for families who often switch cars or use public transportation.
It's also worthwhile to look for an infant car seat that has an easy cleaning process. The spit-up of a baby spills, diaper blowouts and sticky hands can make it difficult to clean a seat.
Infant carriers are rear-facing car seats that are suitable for babies and infants up to 13kg, or 4 months of age. You might want to consider an all-in one or convertible car seat, which can be adapted to your child's needs as they grow older and can be used forward-facing once they're nine months old or older (9-18kg). However, this type of car seat takes up more space in your car and isn't able to fit into certain vehicles without a special adapter. Alternately, you can purchase an infant car seat attachment for your existing stroller and is an alternative that is more flexible.
Convenience
A rear-facing infant car seat is one that connects to the base of your vehicle. These seats ensure that babies are in a safe and comfortable environment from birth until they reach their height and weight limits, typically around 18 kg. Some models can also be used as a travel system allowing you to convert them into a stroller to use while on the move. These all-in one car seats are perfect for families who need to change cars or travel frequently.
Look for a car seat that is simple to adjust and install. Buckles, installation straps, and the handle should be easy to access and operate. Similarly, the adjusters for the harness and headrest should be easy to tighten and loosen, particularly for children who are growing rapidly. Look for an intuitive design that has plenty of safety features like built-in bubble levels that will aid in achieving a good fit.
Certain models let you rotate the seat 360 degrees. This can be beneficial in the event that your child is asleep in the car, or if you are putting them into and out of the seat. You should look for an infant car seat with a flat position. This will give better support to your baby and reduce their risk of sudden deaths.
A convenient handle or canopy can make an enormous difference to your daily routine. Some of the most effective car seats for infants come with handles that can be lowered and raised by a single push. They are simple to use even when you have your hands full or your child is asleep in the seat. Some seats also come with an umbrella that can be pulled down from the bottom to protect your child.
If you plan to travel with your baby often, an infant car seat that comes with ISOFIX connectors is a good choice. They make it easier to attach the seat using the vehicle's seat belt which is a safer alternative. They are also great for taxi rides, flying holidays and trips in grandparents' or rental cars vehicles.
Value
You don't have to spend the entire amount of money to buy a great infant car seat. Budget-friendly options like the Baby Trend Secure-Lift prove you don't have to sacrifice safety features in order to save money. This seat is certified by GreenGuard for low chemical emissions and JPMA certified to meet the highest safety standards. Its Keepsafe(tm) and side-impact protection systems give newborns the most effective protection possible and its three-position, adjustable base and carry handle with four positions will ensure that it grows with your baby.
Other features that save money are simple removal and installation, and fabric covers that can be washed. Some infant car seats include handy extras, like strollers built-in or rotation capability. These features can help you cut costs if you plan on using the car seat for a long period of time or frequently change between cars.
The seat's weight and height limits are also important to take into consideration. If you want to use the car seat for an extended period of time, choose one that goes up to at least the 90th percentile of your baby's weight and height. This will safeguard your child from spinal injuries if you are involved in an accident.
If you're on a tight budget, consider a model that is slimmer. This will allow the seat to fit in smaller vehicles and automobiles. There are also budget-friendly models with convenient features such as a large canopy or multiple positions for carrying.
You'll also want to choose the right seat that can last for several years of use. pushchairsandprams.uk can be used from newborns to seven years old, making it a good investment. Mum Rachael says, "It's a good investment and saves me money on convertible car seats because it's sized to fit my children from birth."
Many parents are seeking an all-in-one solution when it comes to baby gear. A car seat that doubles as a stroller is perfect, and this one from Nuna is a great choice for families with a tight budget. Its safety and convenience features, such as the load leg and anti-rebound bar, give peace of mind. Moreover, the premium fabrics and practical extras, such as the stroller's base lock and cup holder will surely please.