How to Choose forward facing infant car seat car seats best car seat for newborn (view)

Parents should have car seats. But what makes one better than the other?

A specially designed infant seat is ideal for small babies best, and is lighter for easier transportation outside of the vehicle. Consider features that are convenient, like premium connectors for lower anchors and harness pads that are not rethreading, and single button handles. Also, look into security features like load legs and body cushions for the head and neck.

Safety

As any parent will tell you, choosing the right car seat for your child is among the most important decisions you could make. The right seat will ensure they're positioned properly in the car and ensure they're secured in the event of an accident.

Not all car seats are equal. While every seat sold in the US must adhere to the strict safety standards established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration However, not all car seats come with the same features. Some have special features designed to safeguard infants, for instance, load legs that limit the impact of crashes by absorbing the impact forces on the car seat and base as well as built-in bubble levels for easy installation and adjustable headrests that increase with your baby.

Choi says that car seats for infants are designed to provide the perfect fit for babies. They usually come with crash-tested inserts, which can help achieve this. They're also generally lighter than convertible car seats and are easily moved to strollers making them ideal for ride-sharing and daycare drop-offs and pick-ups. Since they'll only last through the first year of your baby's life it's possible to purchase an used one at less than the price.

A high NHTSA score and great crash test results are essential however the way you use your child's car seat is more important. A study by Portland's most renowned children's hospital found that 95% of parents made at least one error when installing or changing their car seat.

It's a good idea to spend a few minutes to get familiar with the correct car seat usage guidelines before your baby arrives. We recommend you pick a car seat that has clear and concise instructions. It must also be light enough it's easy to carry around your baby.

You should also verify that the infant car seat you're considering fits the requirements for size for your vehicle. If you're concerned about your ability to install and operate the car seat correctly you might want to bring it to a certified child safety technician (CPST) to receive a hands-on tutorial before your baby is born.

Convenience

Some infant car seats include additional features that make it easier to use. Some infant car seats have features that make them simpler to use. For instance, they might have a base on which the seat can be clicked in and out, or they might include an easy-to-use adjusting mechanism. These features make it easier to set up and remove the car seat, especially if there is another child in your care.

It is also important to think about the weight and height limits for an infant car seat. If your baby is growing quickly it could be worthwhile to invest in a car seat with greater limits to ensure that you are able to use it as long as you want.

Aside from the safety features, a baby car seat should be comfortable for your baby. Look for cushioned straps that don't squeeze or rub their shoulders and plush fabric that is soft underneath them for long periods of time. It's also recommended to choose a seat with the option of lying flat that allows your baby to ride in a more reclined position, which helps keep their airways open and oxygen levels high.

Dr. Segura warns you that you should avoid buying any accessories for infant car seats that aren't included in the seat, since they are not crash-tested and may be unsafe. Also, avoid purchasing used infant car seats because they could have been in an accident and could be damaged or worn out.

The best infant car seats range anywhere from $100 to $600 There are a few characteristics that the top choices have in common. They're all lightweight, simple to set up and remove, and comfortable for babies. Some models have additional features that make them more versatile. For instance they can pivot or clip into strollers without adapters. For more details on the different choices available, read our list of the top infant car seats.

Comfort

Top infant car seats come with comfort features that allow you to easily take your child into and out of the seat. The top infant car seats feature one-handed clasps that lets you grip both sides simultaneously. They also come with padding that is cushioned to make it easier to lift the seat. Also, you should consider the weight of the seat. Since you'll use it without a base, a lighter one is preferable. This Baby Trend Secure-Lift for instance, weighs less than 13 pounds.

Other factors to consider include the height and weight limits of the infant car seat. If you plan on keeping the car seat for a long time choose one that will grow with your baby and fit them into the toddler years. Then, you'll be able to use it for a longer period of time and save money on a second car seat.

It is also important to consider the dimensions of the seat and if it is narrower or wider than other models. The former can be a boon for smaller vehicles, and the latter may be helpful for families with two children in back-to-back car seats or require driving with three children in the back seat at some time. If you plan to use the car seat in conjunction with strollers, you should look for one that is able to be removed from car seats that are compatible with most popular strollers. Car seat brands like Graco and Nuna offer options that can meet this need.

Examine the rating of a car seat for ease of use. Clearly labeled guides and indicators that let you know the seat is level and securely fastened -- like bubble levels or color codes--can aid in reducing stress on new parents. Some seats also come with innovative features, such as load legs which are shock-absorbing components that are located under the seat or at the base that extend out to the vehicle floor and absorb some of the impact force in a crash.

There are also a few accessories that claim to increase the comfort and convenience, but remember that any device not sold with the car seat hasn't been tested or approved for safety. Segura advises that you shouldn't put anything else in your car seat, such as an accessory like a blanket or harness that you bought elsewhere.

Style

For new parents trying to figure out how to choose the best car seat for your infant can be a bit of a puzzle. It's important to know the budget you have set and what features you want. There are plenty of different options in terms of special features, stroller compatibility, and fabrics, but it all depends on what's most comfortable for baby.

It is important to remember that convertible car seats are not suitable for babies and can only be used until the age of one year. Some include crash-tested extensions kits which can help them last longer. They usually come with more recline options to ensure the proper positioning of tiny children. They are also lighter and easier to carry. They are more likely to be compatible when used with an existing travel system. This is a great option for parents who are new and want to save money and time by buying seats that can serve two functions.

Car seat weight and width are also important to consider for families with a large number of children. Certain infant car seats, for instance are narrower and can fit better in the back of your vehicle or close to other seats. Some are so heavy that they will test your biceps when you lift them up and transfer them from the car to the stroller.

Many parents opt for an the infant car seat that can be transformed from base to carrier, and then click into a stroller without needing any extra attachments. This can save a lot of time, particularly on busy days when you're out running errands with your kids.

Other useful features include a harness that is not rethread as well as magnetic buckle holders and an easy-to-install process. Finally, you should look for a head and body support insert, which can aid in preventing infants from slumbering in their seats or carriers when they fall asleep.

Most car seats have flexible straps to secure their lower anchor connectors, however some have latches that are rigid and flip out of the base and turn green once installed. This type of installation is more secure and may limit the amount of time a car seat moves in the event of a crash.