It is always fun when a new baby arrives, but a newborn in the house also means plenty of added responsibility. Besides feeding, bathing, and soothing your child to sleep, you will also have to get him some essential pieces of baby gear. One of the most important things that you will buy for your child is a car seat. Car seats keep children safe while on the road, so you will want to invest in the best car seat for infants.
Infant car seats are a bit different from boosters and convertible seats although they obviously serve the same purpose. Infant seats are made especially for babies, with a minimum weight rating of about 5 lbs and a maximum of 20 or 22 in most cases. They give your child a snugger ride than a bigger convertible seat, and they can only be installed in a rear-facing position. They also double as carriers and recliners where your child can rest even when you are on the go. Here is a guide that will help you buy the best car seat for infants.
1. Select a seat that is the most practical buy.
Practicality in the case of infant car seats is often closely linked to weight ratings. As mentioned above, most of these seats can carry a maximum of 22 lbs. However, others can seat children up to 30 lbs or 35 lbs in weight. If your baby is on the large side, choose one of these seats instead – they will allow you to get more use out of your purchase and you won’t have to replace it before your child’s first birthday.
2. Look out for great safety features.
Because safety is on top of your priority list, look for a car seat that does not skimp on safety features. Side impact protection and anti-rebound features are absolutely essential. You want a car seat that has a deep, reinforced shell that’s lined with high-density foam that distributes energy from a crash. An anti-rebound bar and five-point harness are also important.
3. Make sure the seat is comfortable and convenient.
A happy, comfortable baby means happy parents. Get a seat that is soft and well-padded, with a breathable seat cover and a canopy that offers both shade and privacy. For your convenience, choose a car seat that is easy to clean, and one that has ergonomic carrying handles and a stay-in-car base.
4. Look at reviews.
Car seat reviews are a great way to get some background information on this type of product. There are many of them online, as well as in parenting magazines and other similar publications. These reviews will also tell you the strengths and weaknesses of specific models of infant seats. Before you invest in your child’s car seat, it is always smart to make sure you will not be disappointed.
These tips should help you identify the best car seat for infants and help you give your baby the protection that he deserves.
