As you can't wait to get your tiny newborns out of the hospitals, put them into your motor vehicles, and get them home to provide them the immense love in the world, you're going to take all the obligatory steps to do so.
But, there comes the question of how to do so.
Well, when you're asking, the primary step is to put your little ones into the best infant car seats!
Since they are essential, you won't be able to leave hospitals without rear-facing car seats, and you will have to install them into your cars.
So, that's the next step - the correct seat installation.
Table of Contents
- Best Infant Car Seats On The Market: My Top 12 Choices
- #1. Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base - Maximum Safety Features
- #2. Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat - Remarkable Sturdiness
- #3. UPPAbaby MESA Infant Car Seat - High-quality Fire-resistant Content
- #4. Chicco KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex Infant Car Seat - The Best LATCH Installation Process
- #5. Britax B-Safe Gen2 Flexfit Infant Car Seat - Best SafeCell and Side-impact Protection
- #6. Evenflo LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat - Best for Stay-in-the-car Base
- #7. Disney Baby Minnie Mouse Infant Car Seat - The Most Comfortable Car Seat
- #8. Graco SnugRide SnugLock Extend2Fit Infant Car Seat - Incredible Stability
- #9. Baby Trend EZ Flex Loc Infant Car Seat - Budget-pick
- #10. Maxi-Cosi Mico 30 Infant Car Seat - Best for Self-wicking Materials
- #11. Primo Viaggio 4/35 - Best Construction and Flexibility
- #12. Safety 1st onboard 35 LT Infant Car Seat - Fantastic Support
- All You Need To Know About Best Infant Car Seats - Buyer's Guide
- FAQs
- What are the top-rated infant car seats?
- What is the safest car seat in 2022?
- Are infant car seats safer than convertibles?
- Can I skip the infant car seat?
- Can you leave the hospital without a car seat?
- Can you leave the hospital with a convertible car seat?
- How long does a baby stay in an infant car seat?
- Are rear-facing car seats and infant car seats the same thing?
- Is there a difference between a newborn and an infant car seat?
- What infant car seat has the highest safety rating?
- What is the difference between Chicco KeyFit and KeyFit 30?
- What would be the shielded place for a baby/toddler in an infant car seat?
- Does an infant car seat need head support?
- Is infant car seat FAA approved?
- What are infant car seats made in the USA?
- Where can I get a free car seat near me?
- How to install infant car seats?
- What are some common mistakes when installing an infant car seat?
- How to install an infant car seat without a base?
- How do I know if I have installed the infant car seat correctly?
- Where can I get my car seat inspected near me?
- Does the infant car seat go behind the driver passenger?
- How long does an infant car seat expire?
- Can you use an infant car seat after the expiration date?
- How many years can you use a Doona?
- Final Thoughts - Summary
Best Infant Car Seats On The Market: My Top 12 Choices
Let's begin with the best out best! As you can observe, the best baby car seat is this our top choice! Allow me to show you why we think so highly of it.
First of all, our best infant car seat is effortless to operate and use.
Namely, you can use it with a simple one-motion operation, and you can straightforwardly place this car seat into the seat stroller in seconds. So, you get two-in-one.
Moving on, we have to mention the safety features.
As you might find, Doona Infant Car Seat contains a five-point harness system and an adjustable handlebar, which also serves as an anti-rebound bar when you install and place the car seat into your motor vehicle.
Additionally, the three-layer side impact protection contributes to the harness system in a way that it secures the infants and smaller babies from any kind of potential injury.
When you place it in your cars' back seat, even in the case of a car crash, nothing will happen to your baby since the rear-facing infant car seat will protect his/her body parts.
The highest safety and quality standards are a big plus since the rear-facing car seat has approval from the FAA Aircraft and TUV, so it's safe for travel.
Further, the infant seat contains the washable and removable baby safe textiles and materials that are ECO-friendly and breathable; hence, they won't damage the babies' skin.
Considering the maximum weight, the infant rear-facing seat is suitable for smaller babies between 4 and 35 pounds. According to the dimensions, the maximum height should be 32 inches since the infant car seat weighs 16 pounds, and its base weighs 10.3 pounds.
The package does include not only the Doona black seat, but also the red new stretch material canopy, latch system, energy-absorbing foam, memory foam head support, aluminum handle, and many more parts.
Since this is the Doona car seat, you shall also find Doona bamboo head support, infant insert, base, vehicle seat protectors, and a 2 years warranty period. So, if you select this infant car seat, you won't regret it!
- Excellent maneuverability
- Durability
- Easy to install and use
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- May be too tight
Let us present to you the number one infant car seat on the whole American continent! Yes, you've heard me well, it's one of the best-rated seats on the market!
Let's start our review by telling you that our Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat has the quickest and the most accessible installation system due to its latch seat belt system, "ride right" bubble levels, and "recline sure" leveling foot.
Having so many different traveling modes, parents can be sure that longer or shorter journeys will be safe and comfortable for their little ones. Even if the plastics scratches or cracks, your baby will be untouchable.
Since the KeyFit 30 infant car seat belongs to the Chicco company, the safest ride is now possible in combination with the appropriate Chicco strollers for the maximum ease of use and the effortless transport.
But, parents should also know that they cannot find these strollers in the package - they have to buy them separately. But if you buy the Chicco seat, it's natural that you'll purchase the following equipment too, for safer trips.
If you're newbies parents or parents-to-be, you'll find that our infant car seat contains the removable body support and head part so that they can adjust the infant car seat according to their children's needs and demands. Thus, the seat is an appropriate option for 4 to 30 pounds infants or toddlers, and those who are 30 inches tall.
Concerning maximum safety features, don't worry - our best infant car seat consists of a five-point harness system with an easy-pull tight.
KeyFit 30 also contains the two-position carry handle with a comfortable grip for more accessible transport and installation.
Finally, this infant car seat contains the maximum core, follows the children's growth and development, offering the utmost comfort and relaxing atmosphere. However, thanks to its proportions, it's suitable even for smaller motor vehicles.
Hence, if you have taken a look at all of this, don't waste your time anymore - select our best rear-facing infant car seat and set off freely on an adventure!
- Easy to remove
- Excellent safety features
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Minor design flaws
Next off, we have this beauty. Trust me when I claim that it's worth our attention. Let me demonstrate its benefits.
To begin with, I have to say that the rear-facing infant car seat passed federal motor vehicle safety standards and various tests and proved to be consisting of different fire-retardant contents and chemicals. Thus, the rear-facing infant car seat is ECO-friendly and safe for your baby.
Since the proportions measure 25.8 inches x 17 inches x 23 inches, our top high-quality car seat withstands the maximum weight limit of 35 pounds. So, if you have a newborn baby or a toddler between zero and two years old, UPPAbaby MESA will be an ideal baby seat.
After all, the reviews show that there are many satisfied customers, and you know that we will never let you down.
As the installation is the effortless one, you'll need a few seconds to pin all the parts together and secure the baby in the smart security system.
Don't worry about the possible dropping - it won't happen since our infant car seat features the safest latch seat belt and keeps the baby safe and immovable during the ride.
Concerning protection, we have to mention that the seat does include the side impact layers for maximum stability and stability in the case of a car accident.
Moreover, the headrest is adjustable and non-rethreaded for ultimate comfort, and pressure-free.
Additionally, the seat consists of energy-absorbing foam - Merino wool, so it offers a pleasant and skin-friendly touch. Thus, it won't cause heat or pressure when your baby uses it.
UPPAbaby MESA infant seat easily attaches to CRUZ or VISTA strollers regardless of adapters, so you will have to purchase adapters separately. But if you want the maximum comfort for your baby, you'll buy them, naturally.
However, you should know that the base is of low profile and that the hideaway canopy is SPF. Thus, even if the weather is hot and sunny, your baby will remain untouchable, and the sun won't hurt him/her.
- Great security and safety features
- Sturdy
- Lightweight
- Quick installation
- Excellent support
- Durability issues
What's so unique about the Chicco KeyFit 35 Zip infant car seat?
Firstly, it's both user and environment-friendly. How so?
Well, the infant car seat contains the best and most sophisticated ClearTex fabrics; therefore, the content doesn't contain any potentially risky, flame-retardant, or other content.
Also, the materials don't contain chemicals or other dangerous elements that might ruin your baby's skin or cause damage to the surroundings. So, it's safe for more extended use.
In addition, the infant car seat contains easily manageable leg and head support. Thus, you can expand these parts to create more room and space for your growing kiddo and accommodate them up to 32 inches of maximum height (same as the base version Chicco KeyFit 35).
All in all, the seat is intended for more extended use and more safety for your growing baby.
Now, the crucial part is that the Chicco infant car seat contains a 5-point harness system.
The harness is excellent since you easily extend it and adjust to your growing baby, keeping them safe and comfortable for a prolonged period. Thus, they will be stable and secure inside the car seat, won't slip away, and remain safe and sound for more time.
Also, for added protection, more stability, and security inside the vehicle's back, you will find an anti-rebound bar.
This is essential, as the bar works for your baby and keeps them stable, fixed, and intact in all types of car accidents. So, it's an excellent plus for longer trips.
The installation has never been due to the LATCH system and the SuperCinch force-multiplying tightener.
This way, the installation process is effortless since you have to follow the straps and their anchors and connector, click them together, and make them stable and tight enough for regular rides.
But, you will love the Chicco infant car seat due to its compatibility with numerous Chicco strollers. The setup process is also effortless - you have to find the proper connectors and link the base to the adapters.
However, these parts do not come in the package, so you have to obtain them separately.
- Safety
- Durability
- Comfortable
- Support
- Too tiny even for small babies
The Britax B-Safe Gen2 infant car seat is an advanced and updated version of the previous Britax B-Safe infant car seat.
As you can see, the new infant car seat offers a more spacious seating room and a more comfortable area for your growing little ones.
Thus, you will notice that the infant car seat suits all babies between 4 and 35 pounds of maximum weight and up to 32 inches of maximum height. So, it's definitely progress in expandable benefits.
Another big plus is the brand-new infant car seat offers more safety and stability for your little than the previous model.
Namely, the Gen2 infant car seat includes a solid and potent built-in system, with highly durable and robust steel reinforcement in the car seat base and shell.
In addition, the construction and frame offer the SafeCell crumple zone full of energy-absorbing foam. Thus, the material absorbs energy from the external forces, impacts, and external pressure, keeps it, and equally arranges it along the shell edges.
Therefore, your baby's head and spine, and body, in general, remain intact and untouchable. So, they will be stable and secure during all car crashes.
For extra protection, safety, and stability of your little travelers, you will use a 5-point harness system.
The design is unique since it offers six different reclining and quick-adjusting options; therefore, you can adjust it to your baby's needs and keep them stable and comfortable.
But, the headrest also moves in numerous directions, keeping their heads supported and comfortable for more prolonged use.
Due to the SafeCenter LATCH installation system, you can complete the setup process in three steps:
But, when installing it without the base, you can follow the European Belt Guide for extra stability and security.
And, your baby will be comfy and cozy since it allows airflow and circulation with the breathable mesh for maximum ventilation and keeping your kid refreshed, calm, relaxed, and cool.
- Safe
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Bottom clips issues
Why should you opt for the LiteMax 35 infant car seat?
As you might notice, the Evenflo infant car seat is intended for more extended use.
Namely, the infant car seat supports your growing infants longer, as you can expand the base and make more room for your growing little ones. Thus, the infant car seat can fully support and accommodate infants between 4 and 35 pounds and provides a 4-point harness system.
Now, the harness is not a 5-point one, but don't be skeptical - it offers the same improvements and updates, so it will work well and offer more stability and security. Hence, it's comparable with a 5-point one.
In addition, your baby will have extra protection and cover from the weather elements.
As you might notice, the Evenflo infant car seat offers a supreme, extendable sun canopy that also works as a rain cover; therefore, it will keep your baby protected from the weather elements and offer a more comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.
However, you will love the LiteMax 35 infant car seat, thanks to its design and system.
The car seat is highly compact and lightweight; therefore, it will be perfect for travel, easily portable, and convenient to carry. Thus, it won't create additional load or pressure on your hands.
Of course, when speaking of design and soft grip, you should know that the Evenflo infant car seat contains an ergonomic handle, flexible and adjustable to your needs.
Thus, the handle offers a soft and pleasant touch for your hand, and they won't hurt you or cause extra pressure, pain and discomfort.
So, you can carry it around for an extended period and remain pressure-free.
It's essential to mention that you can install it with the integrated belt lock-off system. Thus, the system provides you peace of mind since you can effortlessly install and attach the base in its proper place, securely and correctly.
So, the infant car seat won't move around, and you can be confident your little one will be stable, safe, and sound in the back of the vehicle.
- Comfort
- Safety
- Durability
- Chest clip issues
You have to admit - all these infant car seats are perfect! But, we have to add one more, and this is something so soft and so cute that it will melt your hearts away!
Our catalog's final infant car seat is suitable for little princesses from Disney's most beautiful fairy tales! Aww, that's so sweet, don't you think so?
So, if your child is a real "girly" girl, our infant car seat is a perfect choice for you!
Containing the latch system that sets up with a quick and straightforward click, Disney Baby Minnie Mouse girly infant car seat will provide cozy rides for your baby princess.
As the seat holds up from 4 to 22 pounds of maximum weight recommendation, your little one will feel free and comfortable in her new car seat.
More vitally, your baby can freely move even though she is buckled up. Our infant car seat will not squeeze her body parts. Further, our Disney seat won't suffocate her, and the air circulation will provide the regular breathing.
Being lightweight, our Minnie Mouse infant car seat is convenient to carry, install, and reinstall in multiple motor vehicles since the proportions fit all car types.
Besides, the side impact fillers provide the best possible protection for the head and other body parts. So, your girls won't get hurt.
Every time you start a journey, it will become a real fairy tale as the infant insert in the shape of Minnie Mouse provides an extra proper fit.
The adjustable five-point harness system is a big plus since it contains the three buckle locations and five heights.
Besides, our infant car seat passed the federal ASTM tests, regulations, and safety standards, so it's user-friendly.
In the end, we are left with saying that the producer provides a one-year warranty period so that you can replace the seat or get your money if you don't consider it appropriate for your baby girls. But, we doubt this will happen.
If you obtain it now, you'll always feel your baby girl's happiness concerning the seat.
- Quick set up
- Durable
- Extra support
- Lightweight
- Sturdy
- Minor flaws concerning the umbrella part
Our next high-quality infant car seat comes from the Graco company, the SnugRide SnugLock Extend2Fit. From the very beginning, you know it's the best infant car seat you could ask for!
The base contains the four-point extension panel that provides an ideal 3.5 inches load leg, thus allowing your babies to use this car seat even for longer journeys.
Hence, you won't miss if you choose this infant car seat since it follows the baby's growth and development, and it won't be too tight for your little one.
Moreover, the proper installation and use of classic seat belts or latch system and latch connectors are now possible thanks to snug lock technology and its three-step hassle-free installation. This way, your babies will have the best possible seat safety standards and all other regulations.
A big plus is that SnugRide SnugLock Extend2Fit infant car seat follows the kiddos' development and growth, offering better protection for babies from 4 to 35 pounds and 35 inches high.
So, if you have a newborn or a toddler between zero and two years old, make sure you use the best Graco seats on the market.
In the case of a car collision or other frontal impacts, the high-quality handlebar works as an anti-rebound bar reducing the car seat rotations.
As you see, the seat will remain fixed in your motor vehicle's back, providing the best possible protection for your little ones.
Every time you set off on a journey, you won't have to worry about the potential risks - the seat attributes will keep the babies secure and protected.
To ensure that your children or smaller babies are always safe, the best car seats infant will adjust the headrest and harness to make sure they fit the children's height, head, neck, and shoulders in one motion. Plus, the modified harness system is super safe and shows the ease of use.
I think we fulfilled your expectations. Do you agree?
If you do, check Graco SnugRide SnugLock Extend2Fit today and see your kiddos happy and comfortable in these infant car seats!
- Easy to use and install
- Excellent safety features
- Comfortable
- Great support
- Lightweight
- /
Are you tired? We are not. We have so many things concerning infant car seats to show to you!
Make sure you follow carefully and take notes since we're reaching the highlight!
Therefore, this Baby Trend EZ infant car seat will deserve every moment of your attention. Why?
Hmm, because our best infant car contains a five-point harness system. This is one of the best reasons for my claim. Do you agree?
Of course, you can adjust the parts according to your children's demands and needs.
Anyhow, however you use it, the seat won't make any pressure, and the baby will always have a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere for ultimate pleasure. Thus, the baby can sit in the infant car seat even for longer journeys.
The next advantage is the four-position adjustable base. You can push the button and adjust the height without additional problems for the child's proper body posture and sitting conditions.
Also, if you want to move around, install, and reinstall in multiple motor vehicles, you can do that by using easy access with one-hand help as our infant car seat quickly adjusts to travel conditions.
Speaking of conditions, we must mention its convenience for carrying as the smooth handle serves as a rebound bar; therefore, it won't scratch your arm, and you can quickly move the seat around.
Concerning the side impact protection, the EPS energy-absorbing foam does a great job since the foam fillers provide the perfectly soft head support and excellent head protection. Hence, even in the case of a car collision, naturally, your baby won't get hurt, don't worry.
Since the product serves as an infant car seat only, the minimum weight should be 5 pounds, and the maximum recommended weight is 30 pounds.
I'm sure we've told you all that was necessary for you to determine whether you will obtain one of the best infant car seats you could only imagine.
Besides, being an affordable infant car seat, it deserves your attention. Don't you think so?
If your response is a positive one, purchase the Baby Trend EZ now since you may set off on an unplanned trip, and you need our best infant car seat as soon as possible. So, you must be ready as you never know with the children.
- Quick use and installation
- Lightweight
- Excellent safety features
- Remarkable support
- Easily removable
- Issues concerning sturdiness
The Maxi-Cosi infant car seat will be an ideal choice for you since it's one of the lightest infant car seats on the market.
The car seat weighs less than 20 pounds, and there won't be more pressure and load for your hands when you carry it around.
Furthermore, the car seat offers excellent support for your kids between 5 and 30 pounds and up to 32 inches of maximum height.
So, it adjusts to your growing kids, showing them enough room for maximum comfort and more movements.
But, you will love it since the infant car seat offers a unique stay-in-the-car base flexible and versatile for numerous purposes. Therefore, you can quickly move the seat around and between more vehicles since the base won't create an additional burden to you.
And, more importantly, you don't have to install and reinstall it all the time whenever you go on a trip.
Additionally, the Mico 30 car seat is fully compatible with all other Maxi-Cosi strollers but other high-quality strollers so that you can stroll with your little ones for an extended period.
On the other hand, you need to install it correctly to the strollers, but also not an issue, as the car seat has adapters, so you can compare the attachment points, find the best postures, and "click" them correctly and efficiently.
It won't be hard for you to carry the seat around.
As you will notice, the infant car seat contains an adjustable carrying, ergonomically designed; therefore, it offers a contoured design that curves around your hip so that you can carry it for a prolonged period, comfortably and without pressure.
But its content is the absolute winner and something that no other car seat has! You'll be thrilled to know that the car seat offers self-wicking content.
This way, the fabric draws liquids away from the skin and deodorizes on its own. Therefore, it will keep your baby cozy, dry, relaxed, calm, cool, and comfortable for an extended period.
And, the removable context makes cleaning and maintenance effortless and quick.
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Support
- Safety features
- Easy to install
- Car seat base issues
The penultimate infant car seat is worth your attention since the Peg Perego unit offers a flexible and versatile design that supports your growing little travelers.
As you will see, the car seat supports your growing babies between 4 and 35 pounds and up to 32 inches tall. Therefore, the longer you keep in the rear-facing position, the more stability they have.
Moreover, the infant car seat provides additional security and stability for your growing babies.
Namely, the unit has a handle that works as an anti-rebound bar when you install the car seat in the back of your vehicle; hence, it keeps both the seat and baby stable and safe while in the seat. As a result, they won't move around or slip away in a car accident.
However, for more stability, you will also see the integrated and updated car seat base. It is more sturdy and reliable than keeping the seat in the proper place and keeping it fixed and immovable once you install it at the right angle.
Your baby will have extraordinary support!
The Peg Perego infant car seat offers a dual-stage cushion system.
The first stage covers kids from four pounds and up, offering significant assets to their neck and bottom. The second stage is perfect for all growing babies and also keeps their heads, neck, and bottom correctly and adequately positioned in the car seat.
The materials are comfortable and cozy for your kiddo since they include the fresco jersey breathable fabric. Thus, your baby will have full ventilation, maximum airflow, and circulation and remain relaxed, cool, calm, and comfortable for an extended period.
Don't worry about your baby's safety and security.
The infant car seat includes six different positions, protecting their heads, shoulders, back, neck, and spine at any growing stage and throughout development. Thus, the harness and side-impact protection don't need rethreading, which is another plus.
Also, the energy-absorbing foam extends throughout the frame, shell, and base, making the construction more solid and potent, so the frame will keep your baby supported and stable in the case of a car accident.
- Safe
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Comfortable
- Frame issues
With this Safety 1st onboard 35 LT car seat for your baby, you certainly won't make a mistake! But, make sure you check its advantages firstly.
Let's begin by saying that this infant car seat will provide the ultimate protection for your baby.
You may ask how that is possible. You see, the seat contains the safest latch seat belt system, the one that will keep your baby safe and fixed so that the child won't move around in the car seat.
Next, I must mention that the seat's proportions hold the children between 4 and 35 pounds of weight so that parents can use it as a rear-facing seat only.
Being a rear-facing seat only, Safety 1st onboard 35 LT infant car seat has a fantastic infant insert in the form of a headrest and other body inserts for ultimate comfort and relaxing atmosphere for your baby.
But that's not all since the seat also features the ultra-lightweight construction with the next generation updated side impact protection.
Hence, no matter what happens, only the seat may suffer the damage, and the baby remains without any scratches.
Since the infant car seat follows the children's development and growth, it has a load leg that stretches and makes more space for the baby if you're taking a more extended trip.
The same happens if your baby is tall and tiny - the area will provide more comfort. You can pull the handle, adjust the harness system, and witness this benefit.
However, the primary advantage of this Safety 1st onboard 35 LT seat is its compatibility with travel by plane.
Namely, you'll have to attach it to quick and straightforward strollers for better handling, but it perfectly faces all the regulations.
Having the removable pads, you can wash them into a washing machine without any problem since the seat passed JPMA and ASTM safety standards and regulations. And the adjustable base will fit any type of motor vehicle.
Because you have a one-year warranty period for our infant car seat, you will undoubtedly have more joyful than problematic situations.
So, purchase it now, and relax since nothing will go wrong.
- Quick installation and use
- Affordable
- Excellent safety features
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Minor design flaws
All You Need To Know About Best Infant Car Seats - Buyer's Guide
Searching for the best infant car seats can indeed be challenging.
Your little ones mean a world to you, and, naturally, you want only the best seats for them.
In most cases, you might be indecisive.
However, we are here to help you solve this problem and choose the best infant car seat for your baby.
Read our comprehensive guide, find all that you're interested in, and pick the best one.
1. Only New Car Seats
If you are future parents or already have children, the primary and fundamental rule is ALWAYS to use NEW car seats, and NEVER the second-hand ones.
This is crucial because the safety technicians and manufacturers need to approve the right features and the seats' capability for safe use.
They must follow the safety procedures and test the seats, but they have to fix it if they find some irregularity.
Contrary to that, when you buy second-hand seats, you don't know whether they underwent damage (the plastic may have cracked and you didn't notice, the seat belt system doesn't work as it should and you missed it, etc.).
You cannot know whether the car seat was a part of a car crash, or the parents didn't take care of it.
But most importantly, you don't know whether it conveniently suits your baby.
That is why our recommendation is always to use new car seats since you'll be guaranteed the quality, the correct use, the accurate systems, and the seats will fit your kiddos.
2. High-quality Base Content
When searching for the proper infant car seats, your next task is to check the base content.
The best infant seats contain only the best materials - mostly steel or aluminum, and these materials proved to be the highest protection in the case of a car crash.
As there always are plastic parts that may crack or break, protecting your little one's head, shoulders, and neck, it would be best if the infant car seats contained the steel or aluminum frame.
This is imperative because the base won't break easily, it can only get some scratches, but the child won't get hurt.
3. Safety Features - Durability and Sturdiness
This is connected with the feature since the highest-quality content will last for an extended period.
So, if you obtain infant car seats that are sturdy and durable, they will be indestructible and provide the supreme protection for your baby.
You don't have to worry whether you will have to replace them - that won't be necessary for quite an extended time.
4. Safety and Reliability
If your infant car seats are fixed in your motor vehicles, you have accomplished your goal. The main objective for the seat is to be reliable and safe for children passengers.
Hence, if the seat remains immovable during the ride, at the same position and angle that you installed and placed it, you don't have to bother about whether it will move away, whether the baby will drop out of it, or something else might happen.
It will be perfectly safe and reliable for your kiddo to use it, as the infant car seat will provide maximum stability.
5. Correct Seat Belt Systems
As there are various car seats on the market, parents can opt for multiple models.
Parents can check all the varieties from best infant, best forward-facing, or best booster seats across best convertible and see what would be the best seat for their infants or toddlers.
But the main and common feature all these car seats have is the seat belt system.
No matter whether the car seat contains the latch belt or classic belt system, it must work properly to protect your baby.
In most cases, to check whether these systems work correctly, you have to hear that "click" sound; otherwise, you have to go back and see what you did wrong.
Please check this feature after installing the car seats since this characteristic will help keep the children safe and protected on the roads.
6. Comfort
When you're looking for infant car seats, don't forget to check their comfort.
Consult safety technicians/instructors or manufacturers on how you can estimate which car seats will be the most comfortable and cozy for your kiddos.
As we have seen, the car seats that make no pressure and offer a soft touch for children's skin are the best infant seats.
However, if you want to confirm your hypotheses, ask an expert.
7. Brands
You can choose the infant car seats according to the various dominant brands in the car seat market.
In our case, the most prominent ones are, of course, Maxi-Cosi, Britax, Chicco, Cosco, Doona, Diono and other brands.
Thus, your job is easier since you can always check the customer ratings and comment section to see whether the infant car seat is worth purchasing or not.
And please, disregard the price. You are parents; you want the best infant car seat for your baby, so act that way.
FAQs
What are the top-rated infant car seats?
The top 3 options are the Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base, Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat, and UPPAbaby MESA Infant Car Seat.
Moreover, you'll see that these seats belong to the top-rated brands - Doona, Chicco, and UPPAbaby.
These infant car seats are at the top of the list thanks to their most significant advantages and features - these infant car seats are stable, follow the children's development and growth, and are maximally safe for their users.
These car seats won't move smoothly in motor vehicles and won't hurt your children.
What is the safest car seat in 2022?
That would undoubtedly be our best infant car seat - Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base.
Due to various FAA Aircraft and TUV test results, standards, and regulations, our best infant car seat deserves the safest car seat title.
Furthermore, thanks to its breathable content, safe materials, highest quality and safety standards, this car seat proved to be the safest one in 2022.
Why don't you try it to ensure yourself? We highly recommend it.
Are infant car seats safer than convertibles?
Actually, it's the other way round.
The study researches have shown that convertible seats have better additional protection over kids' heads, resulting in better stability and support. And, they're stronger.
So, they might be safer than regular rear-facing seats.
Can I skip the infant car seat?
Technically, yes. As long as you have an appropriate safety restraint child system, there's no strict requirement of having an infant car seat to be discharged from the hospital.
But I don't quite agree.
It's better to use an infant car seat, as you will place them in the back seat of your vehicle, and they have the ultimate protection, first because they are in the rear position, and second, because the seat will be stable and fixed during the ride.
So, please, don't skip infant seats, for your babies' sake.
Can you leave the hospital without a car seat?
It depends on their policy. Many hospital staff will ask you to bring the seat for their examination and official approval before you're discharged.
So, you cannot take your baby home without a car seat. It's not safe to hold your baby in the car. Neither is it safe to leave your baby in the car alone.
But, other hospitals may have different policies and approve your leave without a seat.
Still, it would be best to use an infant car seat from the very beginning.
Can you leave the hospital with a convertible car seat?
Yes, you can, if you use it in the rear-facing position. You can not place your newborn in the forward-facing position.
And the approval depends on the hospital's policy. It's your legal right to take your kiddo home, but they must approve the car seat after a detailed inspection.
But, you can still use a convertible seat, as long as you use the rear-facing position for your newborn baby. Otherwise, the hospital staff might not approve the leave.
How long does a baby stay in an infant car seat?
According to the AAP, the baby must be an infant until they overgrow the manufacturer's dimensions and recommendations.
In other words, your baby must ride rear-facing until they're at least two years old.
But, if they don't reach the standard for forward-facing seats, you still must keep them in the rear-facing position.
Are rear-facing car seats and infant car seats the same thing?
Yes, it is when you use it rear-facing.
Rear-facing seats serve infants and toddlers, and you install them rear-facing for more security and better protection.
On the other hand, infant car seats can be convertible, which means that you can use them both rear-facing and forward-facing.
Still, to use them for infants, you must place them in the rear-facing position and use the anti-rebound bar to prevent their shaking and move in the case of a car accident.
According to the AAP and NHTSA experts, your child must remain in the rear-facing position as long as possible. The manufacturer recommends a specific seat until they reach the maximum size and height limit.
Only then can they use the forward-facing seat.
Is there a difference between a newborn and an infant car seat?
No, there isn't.
Your newborns and infants use infant car seats until they outgrow the recommendations and dimensions of these car seat types and are ready for the next level.
So, you will keep them in the rear-facing mode until they're two years old or when they're too big for this model.
What infant car seat has the highest safety rating?
The safest infant car seat is undoubtedly the Chicco KeyFit 30, thanks to its excellent safety benefits and overall protection, effortless installation, and value.
However, the Doona infant car seat and Graco SnugRide SnugLock models are also advantageous in terms of protection and safety standards, so you can also inspect them.
Term Chicco remains the most popular among the parents, and recent studies showed its leadership in the market.
What is the difference between Chicco KeyFit and KeyFit 30?
Both car seats are of the same brand, so there's not much difference.
Still, the KeyFit 30 is the next generation of the previous KyFit series, so they are slightly advanced.
Namely, the KeyFit 30 has a higher weight and size limit than the KeyFit.
The KeyFit 30 supports kids between 4 and 30 pounds, whereas the KeyFit supports children between 4 and 22 pounds.
So, the KeyFit 30 has a higher size tolerance, and you can use it longer.
In addition, the two seats differ in materials and maintenance.
Although you can find that both seats use the same machine-washing process, parents still recommend you wash the KeyFit with mild soap and water. This is not a limit for the KeyFit 30.
So, the KeyFit is more advanced than the older KeyFit model.
What would be the shielded place for a baby/toddler in an infant car seat?
The safest place for your infant car seats is in your motor vehicles' back seat, away from the airbags system. Now, this is highly vital, and you may ask why.
The main and fundamental cause for this is the fact that during the car collision, the airbags work instantly. But, to open them, there's a need for a strong force that can start them. The same power and pressure will be fatal for the youngest ones.
Namely, when the airbags open, they serve to prevent passengers from hitting their head, smashing the windshield, and saving their lives.
However, the same airbags will crush your little ones due to the force and pressure.
So, it would be of great importance if you kept your baby in the back seat of your motor vehicle so that the airbags wouldn't harm your little boy or girl.
Does an infant car seat need head support?
Head support is not obligatory for car seats.
However, the seats will protect your children in crashes in their ways. That's why they are created in particular ways.
Manufacturers mainly include the head support into seats to help your child's head wobble less as their neck muscles grow.
In addition, the seats provide soft places for your kids to rest their cheeks.
Is infant car seat FAA approved?
To be able to use your infant car seats on the plane, you must find a sticker that reads: "The restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft."
Multiple car seats sold across the USA and Canada are FAA approved. But, if your car seat doesn't have such a label, you cannot use it for the aircraft.
You can directly visit the official FAA website and find the complete list of FAA-approved car seats. However, you can find our list here.
And you can contact multiple safety technicians or your manufacturer to find more information about the FAA approval and if your car seat has such an option.
What are infant car seats made in the USA?
The list includes:
- Evenflo LiteMax
- Maxi-Cosi Mico Max
- Britax B-Safe 35 and Britax Endeavours
However, multiple convertibles - infant and forward-facing or all-in-one seats are also available:
- Britax One4Life all-in-one car seat.
- Britax Marathon ClickTight convertible car seat
- Evenflo Sonus 65 convertible car seat
- Cosco Scenera Next DLX convertible car seat
- Cosco Apt 50 convertible car seat
- Cosco Mighty Fit 65 convertible car seat
Where can I get a free car seat near me?
Please, refer to our article on free car seat programs in all 50 states.
You will find all the crucial institutions, organizations, and similar authorities to help you and guide you through the process.
In addition, you can directly visit or contact the following institutions for help:
- SafeKids Worldwide - they are experts in all fields regarding child restraint safety systems so that they can guide you thoroughly.
- Baby 2 Baby
- Everyday Miracles
- Local hospitals
- Local Police or Fire Departments
- Local child passenger safety technicians
- Call 211
- Local women and children's services
All these institutions and organizations will help you and guide you throughout the procedure until you eventually get a free car seat for your child/children.
How to install infant car seats?
Suppose you don't know how to install and place the car seats correctly, what should you do next?
In that case, you call an authoritative safety technician or instructor to help you and guide you through this process or do it all alone by watching various available videos with a step-by-step-process.
As there are various car seats to suit newborns, an infant rear-facing car seat is a perfect choice to protect your baby!
It will save their spinal cords, necks, and shoulders, and keep them safe on the road. Moreover, these car seats will cover babies from all sides, preventing possible injuries and dire situations.
Remember, you cannot select any car seats; they have to be approved by the manufacturer's recommendations and instructions.
Also, the safety technicians and instructors must check and confirm their advantages. That is the only way to know that you're not going to make a mistake.
So, we have chosen the best car seats for infants currently on the market to make it uncomplicated for you to select the best option.
Check their pros and cons, see their best features, and learn why they are the best car seats that currently dominate the market.
Stay tuned and enjoy your search!
What are some common mistakes when installing an infant car seat?
There are multiple common mistakes parents make when they install infant car seats. These include:
- routing the seat belt through the wrong belt path
- failure to use a top-tether for a forward-facing car seat
- installation of the car seat in the front passenger seat
- using both lower anchors and the seat belt at the same time
- failure for the tight installation
- incorrect position of the shoulder straps
- pinch test
- checking the correct usage of the belt path.
How to install an infant car seat without a base?
Follow the steps below:
- Place the rear-facing seat on the vehicle's back seat
- Pull out the seat belt and thread the lap section through the guides on the car seat
- Put the shoulder belt portion through, ensuring it lies flat
- Buckle the belt and pull down the shoulder belt to activate the locking mechanism
- Push the seat and pull the safety belt to examine the safe installation. You're ready to go if it's tight and doesn't move.
How do I know if I have installed the infant car seat correctly?
Once you complete all the security steps, you will finish the installation.
In addition, to check if you were successful, you will move and shake the car seat in all directions - side to side and back to forth.
If your seat moves no more than 1 inch, you're ready to go. If it moves more than 1 inch, you will have to go again.
Where can I get my car seat inspected near me?
You can visit your local child safety seat inspection station. That's the most common place to get your car seat inspected and confirm they are or are not optimal.
You can find multiple inspection stations at your local police and fire departments, hospitals, local automobile dealerships, and similar places.
The safety technicians and similar experts will examine and confirm your car seats.
Another option is to visit various SafeKids Worldwide safety events sponsored by these experts and examine your seat. You can find more information here.
Does the infant car seat go behind the driver passenger?
An infant car seat must be placed in the back seat of your vehicle, in the middle or central position, if possible.
If that's not possible, you can place it near the window behind the driver or on the passenger side. The crucial factor is that it must be far away from the airbag system.
And, of course, you must install it rear-facing!
How long does an infant car seat expire?
Depending on the models, car seats typically expire after six or ten years from the manufacturer's date.
You will find a label attached to the side or bottom of the seats with the serial number, manufacturing date, and expiration date.
For those who have car accidents, the expiration date is immediate! Although it would help if you replaced the seat instantly, you cannot notice potential inner damage and cracks.
Can you use an infant car seat after the expiration date?
No, you cannot. Expired car seats will not protect your children adequately in car crashes. That's why the AAP urges the parents to eliminate using expired car seats.
The same goes for the seats without a precise expiration date but whose use is more than six years from the date of manufacture.
How many years can you use a Doona?
The Doona car seat will expire six years from the manufacturer's date. However, your child can use it as long as they fit the seat in terms of its use.
Once they outgrow the maximum size and weight limits, you can place them in the forward-facing car seat.
But, please, do not hurry, and follow the AAP and NHTSA rules and safety standards.
Final Thoughts - Summary
Well, we're finally here. We have to finish our journey. You know they say that all that is beautiful drifts away, so we have to say goodbye.
I hope this adventure didn't exhaust you. I also hope that you enjoyed your search, found all the necessary information, and that our guide helped you at least take into consideration the features and that now you have a clear picture in your heads what car seat you will obtain.
But, let's do the revision of our best infant car seat once more in case you forgot, and see why it won our hearts.
Our best infant car seat is definitely our Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base.
As you could observe, the parents chose it as the best infant car seat because it contains the maximum safety standards and features, which means that it is a user-friendly car seat and won't damage their users.
Another reason for being the best infant car seat is the seats' five-point adjustable harness system, and the possibility to moderate the height and the car seats' parts according to your children's needs and demands.
As the material is breathable and washable, these car seats will always be clean and ready for use.
Having the three layers of the side impact protection, your baby won't get hurt if something goes wrong as the seat will protect your kiddo and won't allow anything wrong to happen to the child.
Since we talk about Doona, as one of the most prominent brands on the market nowadays, you will get Doona strollers and other following child restraint system equipment for ultimate protection and security.
So parents, what else do you need when you have absolutely everything you need with our best-rated infant car seat?
If you liked the article, if you have some questions, recommendations, suggestions, please, let me know by leaving your comments, and I will gladly respond.
Good luck, parents, in your search!
- FROM CAR SEAT TO STROLLER IN SECONDS - Whether you're running errands or traveling by car, train, or plane, Doona is the complete travel system. Move from car seat to stroller at the click of a...
- EASY TO USE - With an adjustable handlebar, washable materials, and an intuitive design, Doona's one-click, secure mechanism ensures correct installation every time—and allows you to explore the...
- ERGONOMIC SUPPORT - Doona is designed to ensure your baby's body is properly supported. The Doona Infant Insert’s near-flat ergonomic design boosts your newborn’s upper and lower back and ensures...
- SAFE - Includes 3-layer side impact protection, anti-rebound bar crash technology & a 5-point safety harness. It's TUV and FAA aircraft approved for travel, made with baby-safe materials & the canopy...
- MADE TO LAST - Doona is made from premium-grade fiber-reinforced polymers, rust-free aluminum, and durable wheels. It's the only car seat to have been tested and certified as a rear-facing car seat, a...
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