10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden They'll Help You Understand Car Seat For Newborn
Which is the Best Car Seat For Your Newborn?
A quality car seat will keep your baby safe and secure while driving. Which is the best for your baby?
With features such as latch hooks, load legs, and belt paths to consider, choosing the right infant car seat isn't easy. Here's what you should think about to make the best choice for your family.
Easy of Use
You'll want to select an option that is easy to install and use, whether you're purchasing an infant car seat for a newborn or upgrading from your toddler's car seat. Consider the size and weight of your child, the seat's capacity in the car and any additional features, like a lay-flat option which can also be used as stroller.
Infant-only chairs are a good choice for small babies because they're generally narrower than convertible car seats and can fit infants more comfortably. They also provide a harness that can support your child's head, which is fragile in the event of a collision, which can reduce strain on their neck and spinal cord.
Convertible car seat are ideal for parents who want to keep their child rear-facing for as long as they can. Most models let the child rear-facing for 30 pounds or more. If you decide on a convertible car seat, you should look for one that complies with federal safety standards and has a weight limit of 50 pounds or more.
It is important to keep in mind that, despite the fact that all car seats must meet strict NHTSA standards There are a variety of models to choose from. To avoid the burden and risk of a defective or dangerous seat, make sure you choose one approved by a reputable business or organization, and check for recalls in the past and manufacturer complaints.
Top-rated car seats are made with skin-friendly materials, plush padding and various recline positions. Some of them also have padding near the buckle area and on the shoulder harness to help your infant stay comfortable during long travel. If you're driving a small vehicle, consider a narrow infant car seat, such as the Clek Liing. It's less than 17 inches in width, and can be easily installed in a variety of automobiles. The UPPAbaby MezzaMax, that can be used in conjunction with UPPAbaby Strollers, is a great choice for families in search of a simple car seat. Its auto-retracting straps EZ buckle, premium lower anchor connectors with guides, and a no-rethread harness make it simple to use for every car trip.
Safety Features
If you're in search of a secure, lightweight infant car seat to take your little one for long drives or want to ensure that your child is comfortable during the duration of a ride there are a few important aspects that are worth keeping in mind. First, think about the height and weight limits of your infant car seat. This will determine how long your baby can be safely in the car seat So, you should choose a seat that goes up to at least your child's 90th percentile measurement before they turn 1. Also, consider whether you might want to put a coat or blanket over the straps of the harness. The AAP warns against this because thick clothing could shrink in the event of a crash, making the straps loose enough for your child to be restrained, increasing the risk of injuries.
Other factors to consider are whether you intend to install your car seat with belts on your vehicle or the LATCH system and whether it's compatible with other strollers or travel systems. A car seat that is able to fit on a base that is compatible is ideal if you plan to use it for the majority of your car trips in order to save time and energy by not having to take it off it and put it back in place every time you drive.
The Cybex Cloud G Lux, which won Best of The Bump, received top marks in our tests for its ease of installation and its ability to adjust. Testers stated that it "has everything needed to make a quick and easy installation." This includes premium LATCH connectors that flip out from the base and turn green when fully connected, as well as a SuperCinch strap tightener that can force-multiply and an adjustable foot with springs.
Another option is the Baby Trend's budget-friendly Secure-Lift, which we've found to be as simple to use as other models that cost twice as much. Our test subjects have been raving about its five-position, height-adjustable headrest that adapts to the size of your baby harness, no-rethread harness, and magnetic buckle holders.
The Maxi-Cosi Jade is a fantastic choice for newborns because of its unique 180-degree flat sleeping position which allows them to sleep longer and more comfortably during road trips. It has also been acknowledged for its safety by the consumer advocate Which? saying it's one of the safest infant car seats available as well as ADAC giving the highest lab rating for a car seat for infants.
Rear-facing Options
In most vehicles the safest place for a newborn is in the rear seat at the center. The seat in the center is closest to any impact, and can protect your baby best in an accident. If you are able, choose a car seat for infants that allows your baby to sit rear-facing up to an year old. It is also essential to ensure that the car seat is installed correctly and that the headrest is snug against your child's chest and head. Find a certified child passenger technician who can give you the most up-to-date recommendations for car seat installation and use. Find one near you here.
The car seat you choose for your baby will be a major investment, and you'll use it for many years. You'll want a seat that has a high crash test score and an analysis score. It should also come with features that will keep your baby comfy. The Clek LIing is an excellent option for parents who are seeking a rear-facing infant seat that's affordable. pushchairsandprams scored highly in our sensor and analysis test. It has an easy LATCH system that changes color to indicate whether the buckle straps have been properly attached to the car and an extra load leg that helps avoid frontal collisions.
Strategist senior editor and mom of two Jen Trolio used the Graco Extend2Fit for her daughters, who both went from the time of birth until age 6. The adjustable harness height and size allows it to be adapted to children of all sizes, including taller ones. The seat is suitable for various vehicles, and it has the weight limit of 50 pounds rear-facing. Plus, it converts to an adult seat that Trolio used with her oldest daughter up until she turned 10 years young.
Another affordable option is the Nuna RAVA. It doesn't come with a base, but it is still simple to install with the LATCH connectors that are rigid. They slide out from the bottom and turn green automatically when the seat is secured to the vehicle. The RAVA is also comfortable for infants, with an unrethread harness that is not rethread and magnetic buckle holders that allow you to attach the straps without taking your child from the seat. LaBracio also liked the recline that has six positions.
Options with a Forward-Facing Focus
Children's necks can be held by the seat back in front-facing seats instead of being pushed forward onto a hard vehicle seat. This protects them from collisions with other vehicles as well. Car seats typically allow infants to ride rear-facing until they weigh more than 20 pounds and a year old. Many experts suggest that children remain rear-facing as long as they are able to. Their neck muscles and bones are stronger when it's time to move to an front-facing seat.
When looking at options for forward-facing car seat, make sure they meet i-Size specifications, have a padded head rest, and a large harness pocket. Consider buying a car seat that will grow with your child and become a booster. Some models have an all-in-one feature that lets you to move your child from an rear-facing car seat (with tether and harness) to a forward-facing car seat with a harness, and then onto a booster seat.
It is also important to think about whether the car seat will fit well in your vehicle, especially when it has a narrow trunk or a low clearance. Make sure to check the seat's dimensions and the owner's manual for the most appropriate fit.
Find a car seat that provides adequate support and comfort to your child. Long drives in the vehicle are more enjoyable if they can sleep comfortably. This may include features such as reclined headrests and a five-point harness that can be tightened from the rear of the seat, and a variety of recline positions.
After you've narrowed your options down, you should consider the policies regarding crash replacement of the car seats you're thinking of buying. These policies can vary from a manufacturer's replacement policy to a case-by-case review.
Once you've done your research and determined what type of car seat you're looking for now is the time to start shopping around. Look through the selections at your local baby store or online retailer and ask your friends who have young children for recommendations. You can also schedule an appointment with a CPST at Rockridge Kids to help you locate the perfect car seat for your newborn.