Best Infant Seat Features

While all infant seats meet federal safety standards, a few exceed the federal safety standards. From extra padding to cushioned inlay for newborns to the ability to raise and lower the headrest with no needing to rethread the seat, our best car seat of the Bump winner offers many features parents will appreciate.

We looked at factors such as weight (without base) and stroller connectivity special features, and price when deciding on our top choices. Find out the best car seat for newborn infant seat for your family by reading.

Safety

Every infant car seat on the market must meet federal safety standards. Some seats offer extra features that are above and beyond the minimum requirements. These can include load legs and a built-in rethreader sides that can hold straps, and more. The more features a car seat is equipped with the better, according to experts I spoke with.

The more intuitive a car seat, the more likely that parents will use it correctly. This can reduce the chance of injuries to their child in an accident. This is particularly important for infant seats, which are only meant to be used for a limited duration. Find a seat that is easy to install, with an adjustable recline foot with springs and a bubble indicator to help get the seat perfectly level. Make sure the base can be easily clicked into and out of the vehicle.

Certain car seat manufacturers offer high-end features like the no-rethread strap and magnetic buckle holders and side grips for the seat. These are great but remember that the safety of your car seat is just as secure as the car you're driving in. You can find tips in the owner's manual on how to secure your infant car seat and find out more about the car's safety features.

When you're choosing an infant car seat, keep in mind that you'll probably only be able to use it for around 2 years until your child is old enough to transition to an convertible car seat. Some families skip the infant seat altogether and choose to purchase a convertible car, which has a higher weight and height limits. If you decide to buy an infant car seat, be sure to consider the dimensions of your car and test out several models in person before making a decision on one. You can then make sure the seat is suitable for your child, can fit in your car and includes convenient extras like converting into a stroller. Make sure you look for recalls on the product prior to you buy it. It's the most critical aspect to ensure your child's safety on the road.

Easy of Use

You want a car seat for your baby that is easy to attach and take off from the base, whether you plan to use it in one vehicle or transfer it between several. You should look for clear instructions on installation and a smooth mechanism. Also, consider how easy it is to adjust the car seat as baby grows and the quality of the materials used.

Some infant car seat cheap seats have a load leg. This is a brace that serves as a support between the seat's base and the floor of the vehicle and provides extra security in the event of an accident. Consumer Reports research shows that it's especially important if you have an older car, because the risk of suffering a head injury is greater if the child is seated too close to the floor.

Other top features that enhance the infant car seat user experience include a no-rethread harness and an anti-rebound bar that help keep the seat from rebounding in the event of a crash. The latter has been shown by research to decrease the risk for head injuries by as much as 43%. The Evenflo LiteMax DLX is a fantastic choice for those on a limited budget looking for an ARC-certified car seat and comes with a number of high-end features. Jennifer LaBracio, Babylist's gear editor, recommends it. The seat has been awarded an exemplary rating from safety experts for children and comes with an adjustable no-rethread harness and five recline positions, as well as an extendable canopy that is secured with magnets for full coverage.

Another thing to look out for is the type of seat that can be put in with just a lap belt and does not require the base. This is ideal for parents who intend to take taxis or Uber rides and doesn't require an extra return trip to the car to install a different seat. For instance the Nuna Pipa Urbn and the counterpart TRIV travel system feature a rigid LATCH system that's integrated into the bottom of the seat, making it quick and easy to put in any vehicle. It can also be used in a rear-facing position (for children weighing 4-40 pounds) or forward-facing (for children weighing 22-65 pounds), and it converts into a belt-positioning or highback booster for children who weigh between 40 and 120 pounds. It's an excellent choice for families on a tight budget.

Comfort

It's important that your baby is comfortable in the car seat, particularly when they're in the seat for a long time. That means padded straps on their shoulders, plush fabric that is comfortable against their back and stomach and a headrest that expands with them to support their growing body. Also, consider a seat that is easy to adjust as your child gets older.

While a car seat with lots of features may cost more however, they are also more convenient to use. When evaluating a car seat for babies, we consider factors such as a one-hand system harness, top LATCH connectors, and harness that doesn't rethread. We also look at the weight and dimensions of the seat, because an extremely heavy or bulky seat could strain your biceps while you transport it to and from your vehicle or between vehicles.

A seat with a load leg--a safety feature that assists in stabilizing the best car seats seat in the event of a crash--is an alternative. This extra safety feature is typically only found in expensive seats however there are a few budget-friendly models that have it.

Another thing to consider is height and weight limits. You'll want to ensure that the seat is safe for your child once they reach their maximum growth. This typically occurs around the age of 2 or 3. You should also consider a convertible car seat for infants which can be converted into a toddler's seat. This option will give you a bit more flexibility in your car and is great for families who often switch vehicles or travel.

Our test participants were impressed with the Doona which is a combination of the car seat of an infant and a stroller into one unit. It's perfect for parents who are always moving around, particularly those who take public transportation to commute to work or go to school. It's also simple to set up. Our experts who tested it praised its ease of use and its one-handed latching mechanism and the shoulder straps that are padded. Our product testers also noted that the seat is small which is crucial for those who have a small trunk room. It's also free of any flame retardant chemicals which is a major bonus for those who are concerned about their baby's health and environment.

Convenience

The most effective infant car seats are easy to use. The most effective infant car seats are equipped with features that make it easy for parents to get into and out of the seat. Consider whether the seat can be machine washed (to make cleaning easier) and if it comes with a canopy. This is helpful in the car as well as on the stroller.

One feature that might not seem like a big deal but can save you a lot of headache is an indicator on the base that lets you know whether it's been put in place correctly. This line should be parallel to the ground and should be located on the base. It can be particularly helpful when you'll be changing the car seat between vehicles often, or if you intend to travel with your baby and require the seat in taxis or Ubers.

A stroller that is compatible with the infant car seat can be affixed directly to it. This makes it easier to carry your baby to the grocery store or for running errands. You don't need to carry a separate carrier. This can be a life-changing feature for parents who are looking for a way to return to normal after a lengthy trip or a commute with a child.

If you anticipate your baby to grow quickly opt for a car seat designed for infants with a higher weight or height limit than that recommended by the manufacturer. This way, you can keep the car seat for longer.

All car seats sold in the United States must comply with federal safety standards however that doesn't mean that they are all equal. Some seats come with extra features, like load legs that support the base of a car seat to improve stability and an anti-rebound bar that reduces the risk of head injuries from crashes. A few accessories can make the journey more comfortable for your baby, and you as a parent happier and more confident.