Almost all parents will at some point need to take their baby on a car ride. This can be a fun experience, but it’s important to remember that safety is always the top priority. One of the best ways to ensure your child’s safety while in a car is by using an infant car seat. There are numerous alternatives out there to select from, but not all of them provide the same safety, durability, and comfort.
Table of Contents
What is an Infant Car Seat?
An infant car seat is a specialized seat designed specifically for infants and very small children. These seats are different from regular car seats in a few key ways:
- They have a 5-point harness, which provides superior protection for your child in the event of a collision.
- They are rear-facing, which is the safest position for young children to ride in.
- They have a higher weight limit than regular car seats, so they can accommodate larger infants and toddlers.
Parents are always in search of the safest infant car seat, but little do they know what actually matters. In order to answer this question, we need to take a look at the most important factors.
The most important factor when choosing an infant car seat is safety. This should be your number one priority when making any decision related to your child’s safety. All car seats on the market have to meet certain safety standards set by the government, but not all of them are created equal. Make sure to do your research and choose a car seat that has been proven to be safe in crash tests.
Another important factor is durability. You don’t want to have to replace your car seat every few months, do you? Look for a model that is made from high-quality materials and that has a good reputation for lasting a long time.
Comfort is also an important consideration, especially if you plan on using the seat for extended periods of time. Look for a seat that is padded and that has adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit for your child. You should also make sure that the seat is easy to install.
At The Mummy Center, we always actually test out the products before sharing a comprehensive yet elaborate product guide. We tested the top-rated infant car seats and here are the best 8 for you to choose from.
Our Top Picks
Image |
Title |
Weight |
Material |
Orientations |
View on Amazon |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
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The Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base – Car Seat to Stroller |
7 pounds |
Fabric, Foam |
Rear Facing |
|
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Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Infant Car Seat | Baby Car Seat |
30 pounds |
Polyester |
Rear Facing |
|
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Doona Latch Car Seat Base |
35 pounds |
Plastic |
Rear Facing |
|
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Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip Infant Car Seat and Base | Baby Travel Gear |
35 Pounds |
Plastic, Metal, Fabric & fill |
Rear Facing |
|
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Baby Trend Secure Snap Tech 35 Infant Car Seat |
1.1 pounds |
Foam |
Rear Facing |
|
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UPPAbaby MESA Base |
1 pounds |
Plastic, Metal |
Rear Facing |
|
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Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite Infant Car Seat |
35 pounds |
Metal |
Rear Facing |
|
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Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat |
35 pounds |
Polyester |
Rear Facing |
Product Reviews
1. The Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base – Car Seat to Stroller
The Doona infant car seat and latch base is the safest way to travel with a baby. The only car seat that allows you to go from the car to stroller in one simple motion, Doona’s 5-point safety harness system keeps your child secure in both modes. It also features a high back for added support, an adjustable handlebar that acts as an anti-rebound bar inside the car, 3 layer side impact protection, and more. The easy click-in latch connector allows you to install it easily into any stroller or frame with a universal adapter bar.
It’s not every day you get to be part of a revolution. But if you’re a parent, that’s exactly what Doona is. The removable and washable fabric ensures that your child stays clean, while the highest safety & quality standards mean you can trust Doona to always keep your child safe. For all the passionate parents who’re looking for the right newborn car seat for their little bundles of joy, allow this article to help you make the right decision.
- One-handed motion from car seat to stroller
- Incredibly Convenient
- 5 Point Harness
- Removable and Washable Fabric
- little heavier than usual
- The safety clip needs to be dealt with a lot of care
2. Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Infant Car Seat | Baby Car Seat
The Graco SnugRide 35 is a rear-facing infant car seat that provides parents with the peace of mind they need while transporting their little ones. The innovative SnugLock technology allows you to securely install your child’s car seat in less than one minute using either your vehicle’s seat belt or LATCH system, making it easy to transport your child without having to wake them up. The adjustable base has four recline positions and can be adjusted for use in any car. An easy-to-read level indicator helps eliminate guesswork from the installation process, and the in-seat recline adjustment ensures a comfortable ride for your child. The SnugRide 35 also features a padded headrest and harness covers for added comfort, as well as a removable infant insert that provides support for smaller babies. The Graco SnugRide 35 is one of the best infant car seats available.
We bought this for our second born, and that was one of the best decisions we made. Though we must have known by now, parenthood always brings a new challenge and with that comes the inability to make decisions right there and then. After rigorous research, we made the decision to buy it and it is one of the safest infant car seats we could ever buy.
- Installs in less than one minute
- Adjustable base with 4 recline positions
- One step secure attachment
- The shade is a little thinner than expected
- A little difficult to wash
3. Donaa Latch Car Seat Base
The Doona LATCH Base is compatible with the Doona Infant Car Seat and is intended for rear-facing use only. It ensures correct installation every time. It can be installed in the vehicle either with the LATCH system or with the vehicle’s belt. Its secure click-in and easy click-out mechanism provides effortless mobility for parents on-the-go.
- Quick and simple installation and release – One click vehicle installation
- Height adjustment mechanism and easy-to-read Level Indicators ensure proper seat angle adjustment and positioning
- Integral belt locking clips enable snug and effortless vehicle seat belt installation
- Doona installation Indicator confirms that Doona is safely locked in position
- Product dimensions: 9.6 / 15.7 / 20.9 inches
- Safety Information – Please be sure to read base instructions in their entirety before installing the Doona car base in your vehicle. Compliant with US regulations FMVSS 213.
Also Read: 10 Best Crib Mobiles for Your Kids’ Nursery in 2023
4. Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip Infant Car Seat and Base | Baby Travel Gear
The Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip Infant Car Seat and Base is the top-rated infant car seat in America. Engineered with innovative features that make it the easiest infant car seat to install simply, accurately and securely, every time, this car seat offers upgraded features such as a zip-extension canopy, zip-open boot and machine washable, quick-remove seat pad. The lightweight carrier clicks effortlessly into the included stay-in-car base for ideal baby travel gear, while the tailored for comfort design provides a cozy environment for your child. When not in use, the KeyFit 30 Zip stores neatly away in its included travel bag.
The Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip Infant Car Seat and Base is the perfect infant car seat for parents on-the-go. The lightweight carrier clicks effortlessly into the included stay-in-car base for easy installation, while the tailored for comfort design provides peace of mind that your baby is in safe hands.
- Impressively safe for the baby
- Easily Machine Washable – quick remove seat pad
- Full Coverage Canopy
- The weight and height limitation should be extended
5. Baby Trend Secure Snap Tech 35 Infant Car Seat
The Baby Trend Secure Snap 35 Infant Car Seat is one of the most popular infant car seats on the market today. This seat features a removable four-piece grow-with-me insert, making this seat suitable for a child from 4 to 35 pounds. The Secure Snap 35 also features an EPS energy absorbing foam for superior side impact head protection, 5 point safety harness with easy one hand harness adjustment and push button release, extra large 3 panel canopy and Delta multi grip carrying handle. The Secure Snap 35 is convertible to accommodate your growing toddler.
The lightweight design makes it easy to carry from room to room and from car to stroller. The EPS energy-absorbing foam protects your child’s head from side impacts and the 5-point safety belt keeps him secure in the event of an accident. A one-hand easy release seat buckle makes it simple to get out of the car seat.
Also Read: Best Toys For 18 Months Old
- EPS absorbing energy foam
- Removable 4 piece grow-with-me-insert
- Extra large canopy
- The straps can be a bit long
6. UPPAbaby MESA Base
Being a parent is never easy. You are always on the lookout for if the baby is fine, comfortable and safe, especially when you’re driving. We’ve been frequently asked which is the best baby car seat base and which car seat is most comfortable for babies?
An extra MESA infant car seat base allows you flexibility and ease of travel. Ideal for multiple family vehicles – no more swapping car seat bases between relatives, babysitters or spouses. Our Smart Secure System featuring self-retracting mini LATCH connectors and a tightness indicator makes correct installation quick and easy.
- Installs in minutes
- Smooth, finished base bottom won’t damage car interiors
- Red-to-green tightness indicator
- No Straps Included
- Infant carrier not included
7. Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite Infant Car Seat
A lot of parents contact us complaining that they are not able to identify which product is the right one for their little angel(s). Sometimes, companies offer different varieties which makes it even hard to choose from. Luckily, the TMC team eliminates this tension by providing elaborate reviews on the products we trust.
Parents sometimes prefer going for cheap baby car seats which they have to eventually replace sooner than they thought, hence, losing all that money. Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite Infant Car Seat provides a visible difference between your everyday car seat and an elite one.
It is a 3 Step installation rear facing car seat that provides hassle free movement throughout the day or from time to time. Its Simply Safe features a rapid remove seat cover, and no tools or expertise are required to install it. The one-second connection of the In Right Latch helps you get up and running quickly, while the base’s 4-position recline and easy-to-read level indicator provide clarity during installation. The Simply Safe Adjust Harness System allows you to easily adjust the harness and headrest together, without rethreading. The seat can also be used rear-facing for infants from 5 to 40 pounds and up to 43 inches in height. So, if you want one of the best infant car seats, look no further than Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite Infant Car Seat. It is in fact Elite.
- Easy 3 step Installation
- Sturdy
- Amazing 4 recline positions
- Canopy is a little too large which can be a blessing or irritating.
8. Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat
The lightest infant car seat on the market, the Century Baby Safe 35 Infant Car Seat is designed to keep your baby as safe and secure as possible. With a sleek design that doesn’t compromise safety, this rear-facing infant car seat keeps your little one cozy and comfortable with a plush headrest and ergonomic handle for easy carrying. The fabric of this lightweight car seat is made from recycled materials, so you can do more for the environment while keeping your child safe at all times.
- Lightweight
- Best for Baby Girls as well due to its pink color option
- Keep Safe Protection
- Cleaning it is a little tough
Frequently Asked Questions!
Why should you use an infant car seat?
There are several reasons why you should use an infant car seat whenever you take your child for a car ride:
- Safety: This is by far the most important reason to use an infant car seat. Infant car seats provide superior protection for young children in the event of a collision.
- Convenience: Infant car seats are designed to be lightweight and portable, so they are easy to move around. This makes them perfect for traveling with your child.
- Comfort: Infant car seats are often more comfortable for young children than regular car seats. They have a wider range of motion, and they can recline to a more comfortable position.
This is the biggest question every new parent has; do they really need an infant car seat and if they do, then which one? There is no one rule that fits all but, in general, it is best to use an infant car seat until your child reaches the maximum weight or height allowed by that particular car seat. Always consult your car seat’s owner’s manual for specific guidelines. Infant car seats provide your child with the best possible protection in the event of a collision, so it is always best to err on the side of caution.
Now that you know all about infant car seats and why you should use one, it’s time to start shopping for the perfect seat for your child! Be sure to check out our list of the Top 8 Infant Safety Car Seats above.
How long do infant car seats last?
Most car seats have an expiration date of six years from the date of manufacture. However, it is best to check your car seat’s owner’s manual for specific guidelines.
When shopping for an infant car seat, always look for one that has a high weight limit and a long expiration date. This will ensure that your child can safely use the car seat for a long time.
What is the best infant car seat?
The best infant car seat is the one that best meets your needs. There are a few things to consider when choosing an infant car seat:
Weight limit: Make sure to choose the baby car seat with a high weight limit. This will ensure that your child can safely use the car seat for many years.
Installation: Make sure to choose an infant car seat that is easy to install. This will make it easier to use the car seat correctly every time.
Compatibility: Make sure to choose your preferred newborn baby’s car seat that is compatible with your vehicle. This will make it easier to install the car seat correctly.
When choosing an infant car seat, always consult the owner’s manual for specific guidelines.
When can the infant car seat face forward?
Most car seats can be used in the forward-facing position when your child reaches the maximum weight or height allowed by that particular car seat. Always consult your car seat’s owner’s manual for specific guidelines.
Many parents choose to keep their child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, as this position provides superior protection in the event of a collision.
What is the best way to clean an infant car seat?
The best way to clean an infant car seat is to use a mild soap and water. Be sure to rinse the car seat thoroughly after cleaning. Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the car seat, as this could damage the fabric.
How do I install an infant car seat in my car?
There are several different ways to install an infant car seat in your car. Be sure to consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
One common way to install an infant car seat is by using the LATCH system. The LATCH system is a system of anchor points and straps that are designed to make it easier to install car seats correctly.
Another common way to install an infant car seat is by using the seatbelt. Be sure to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual carefully when using the seatbelt to install the car seat.
CONCLUSION
Infant car seats are an important safety device that should be used when traveling with your baby. Be sure to choose an infant car seat that best meets your needs and consult the owner’s manual for specific installation instructions.
At The Mummy Center, we always test out the products before actually sharing a product review with you. We tested the top-rated infant car seats and here are the Best 8 for you to choose from. Now that you know all about infant car seats, it’s time to start shopping for the perfect baby car seat.
Happy Travels & Shopping!
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