Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A quality car seat can keep your baby secure and comfortable on the road. But which one is best for your newborn?
With features like latch hooks, load legs and belt paths to consider, choosing the right car seat for your infant can be daunting. Here's what you need to be aware of in order to make the right purchase for your family.
Easy to Use
You'll want to select one that is easy to install and use, whether you're buying a car seat for a new baby or upgrading from your toddler's car seat. Consider the size and weight of your child, the size of the seat that will fit in your car, and any extra features, like the lay-flat option that can also be used as a stroller.
Infant-only seats are a great option for babies as they're generally smaller than convertible car seats and fit newborns more snugly. They have a harness to support your child's head in an accident, which could reduce the strain on their neck or the spinal cord.
Convertible car seats are great for parents who want to keep their baby rear-facing for as long as they are able to. The majority of models allow children to ride rear-facing until 30 pounds or more. Choose a convertible car seat that complies with federal safety regulations and has the weight minimum of 50 pounds.
It's important to keep it in mind that even though all car seats must meet strict NHTSA standards there are a myriad of models available. To avoid the stress and danger of a dangerous or defective seat, choose one that's approved by a reputable business or a reputable organization, and also look for recalls in the past and manufacturer complaints.
The best car seats are constructed with skin-friendly materials, plush padding and a variety of recline positions. Certain car seats provide additional padding on the shoulder straps and close to the buckle to keep your baby comfortable during long roadtrips. If you drive a smaller car choose an infant seat that is narrow, such as the Clek Liing one, which is less than 17 inches wide and easy to install in most vehicles. The Mesa Max from UPPAbaby that is specifically designed to work with strollers from UPPAbaby, is a ideal option for families that need a simple car seat that is easy to use. 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 a secure, lightweight infant car seat to take your child on long trips or simply need to ensure your child is comfortable for the duration of your ride, a few key features are worth considering. First, consider the height and weight limits of your infant car seat. This will determine the length of time your child can safely spend in the seat. Look for a model which goes up to your child's 90th centile measurement prior to turning 1. Think about whether you'd like to put a blanket or coat over the straps of your harness. The AAP cautions against this as thick clothing can shrink in the event of a crash, making straps too loose for your child to be restrained which increases the risk of injury.
It is also important to consider whether your car seat can be fitted using the LATCH system or a belt on a vehicle, and if it is compatible with other strollers or travel systems. A car seat that is able to fit onto a compatible base is ideal if you plan to use it for the majority of your journeys in order to save time and energy by not having to take it off it and reinstall it every time you drive.
The Cybex Cloud G Lux, which won Best of The Bump, was praised during our testing for its ease of installation and adjustment. Testers said it "has everything needed to make a quick and easy installation." It comes with premium LATCH connectors that open from the base and turn green when fully connected, plus a SuperCinch strap tightener that can force-multiply and an adjustable foot with springs.
Another option that is worth considering is the Baby Trend's budget-friendly Secure-Lift that we've found to be just as simple to use as models that cost twice as much. Our testers have been raving about its five-position, height-adjustable headrest that grows with your baby with a no-rethread harness and magnetic buckle holders.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade is a great option for newborns due to its unique 180-degree flat sleeping position, which lets them sleep longer and more comfortably during travel. It's also praised for its safety, with consumer advocate Which? calling it 'one of the safest infant car seats on the market' and ADAC giving the highest lab rating for an infant car seat.
Rear-facing Options
In most cars the most secure position for infants is the center rear seat. The center seat is furthest away from any potential impact, and will protect your baby best in an accident. If you are able, opt for a car seat that lets your child ride rear-facing until they're about an year old. It is also important to make sure the car seat is properly installed and that the headrest fits perfectly against your child's head and chest. Consult a certified child passenger technician who can provide you with the most current recommendations for car seat installation and use. Find one near you here.
The car seat you select for your newborn will be a major investment, and you'll use it for many years. You'll want to choose a seat that has a high crash test score and analysis score. It should also come with features to keep your baby at ease. The Clek Liing is a great option for parents looking for a budget-friendly rear-facing infant car seat. It scored highly in both our analysis and sensor tests, has an easy-to-use LATCH system that has an indicator that changes color and indicates when the buckle straps are securely attached to the car, as well as a load leg that can help to prevent frontal collisions.
Strategist senior editor and mom of two Jen Trolio used the Graco Extend2Fit for her two daughters who both grew from the time of birth until age 6. The seat's adjustable harness height as well as length help it fit all children from short to tall. The seat is compatible with many vehicles, and it has the weight limit of 50 pounds rear-facing. Additionally, it can be converted into a booster seat that Trolio used with her oldest daughter to the time she reached 10 years old. old.
Another affordable option is the Nuna RAVA. It does not have a base as the majority of seats, however it is still simple and quick to install using either method, thanks to its rigid LATCH connectors that flip out from the bottom of the seat and automatically turn green once secured to the vehicle. The RAVA is a comfortable baby seat with no rethread harness. Magnetic buckle holders make it easy to secure the straps, without having to remove your child from the car seat. It also comes with a six-position recline, which LaBracio found useful.
Forward-Facing Options
In front-facing seats, children's necks are cradled in the seat back, instead of being pushed forward on the car seat that is hard. This protects them from collisions with other vehicles as well. The majority of car seats allow infants up to 20 pounds and one year of age to sit rearward. However, many experts suggest that children remain rear-facing for as long as possible--their neck muscles and bones will be stronger when they're ready for a forward-facing seat.
If you are looking for alternatives for forward-facing seats, make sure they meet the iSize standards and have a padded harness pocket, and a padded headrest. You should consider buying a car seat which will grow with your child and become a booster. Certain models come with an all-in-one option that allows the child to be moved from a rear-facing car seats (with tether and harness) to a forward-facing car seat with a harness, and then to the booster seat.
It is important to consider whether the car seat will fit well in your vehicle, especially in the case of a small trunk or low clearance. Take a look at the dimensions of the car seat and the owner's manual to ensure that the seat is the best fit.
Also, make sure you choose an automobile seat that offers comfortable and adequate support for your child's body. Long trips in the car will be easier in the event that they sleep comfortably. This may include features such as a reclining seat back and a five-point harness that tightens from the back of your seat, and a range of recline positions.
Once you've narrowed your choices down, you should consider the policies regarding crash replacement of the car seats you're considering. They can differ from the manufacturer's replacement policy, to a case-by-case review.
After you've done some study and decided what type of car seats you want then you can begin shopping. You can also ask friends with young children for recommendations. car seat for newborn pushchairsandprams.uk can also book an appointment with a CPST at Rockridge Kids to help you locate the perfect car seat for your baby.