Best Infant Seat Features

While all infant seats meet the federal safety standards, some are more than others. From extra padding to padded newborn inlay to the ability to raise and lower the headrest without having to rethread our Best of the Bump winner offers many features parents will appreciate.

In deciding which of our top picks, we considered factors such as weight (without base), stroller compatibility, special features and prices. Find out the best car seats infant infant seat for you and your family by reading on.

Safety

Every infant car seat on the market must meet federal safety standards. But some of the seats come with additional features that go above the minimum requirements. Some of these features include load legs and a rethreader integrated strap-holding sides, and much more. The more features a car seat comes with the better, according the experts I spoke with.

The more comfortable a car seat is for users and the more likely parents are to use it in a safe manner, which can reduce the chance of injuries to their child in an accident. This is especially true for infant seats, which are designed to be used for a limited duration. Look for a model with a bubble indicator and a spring-loaded reclining foot to make it easy to set the seat. Make sure that the base can be easily pushed into and out of the vehicle.

Certain car seat manufacturers offer high-end features like a strap that doesn't need to be rethread, magnetic buckle holders, and side grips for the seat. These are great however, don't forget that a safe car seat is still only as secure as the vehicle you're driving in. Check out the car's owner's manual for advice on how to secure your infant seat and to learn more about vehicle-specific safety features.

When choosing an infant car seat, bear in mind that you'll probably only be able to use it for approximately two years before your child is old enough to switch to a convertible car seat. Some families opt to not use the infant seat altogether and choose to purchase a convertible car, which has a higher weight and height limit. If you choose to purchase an infant car seat, be sure to consider the dimensions of your vehicle and try out a variety of models in person prior to committing to one. You can ensure that the seat is suitable for your child, is a good fit in your vehicle and also has useful features such as converting it to a stroller. Make sure you look for recalls on the product prior to you buy it. It's vital to ensure the safety of your child on the road.

User-Friendliness

Whether you'll be using the seat in one car or transferring it between many, you need an infant car seat that is easy to install and detach from the base. Look for clear instructions on installation and a smooth mechanism. Consider how easy it will be to adjust the seat as your baby grows, and the high-quality materials used.

Some infant seats come with the load leg. This is a brace that acts as a support between the seat's base and the floor of your vehicle, providing extra security in the event of an accident. Consumer Reports research shows that it's particularly important if are driving an older vehicle because the chance of sustaining a head injury is higher if the child is seated too close to the floor.

Other premium features can improve the infant car seat experience. They include a no rethread harness, and an anti-rebound bar that helps stop the seat from bouncing in the event of a crash. This has been proven to reduce the chance of sustaining head injuries by up to 43 percent. The Evenflo's LiteMax DLX is a great choice for those with a tight budget looking for an ARC-certified car seat and has a few high-end features. Jennifer LaBracio, Babylist's gear editor, recommends it. The seat was given an outstanding rating by experts in child safety. It has a no-rethread adjustable harness that can be reclined in five positions, and an extendable canopy with magnets to ensure full coverage.

Another thing to look out for is the type of seat that can be put in using the lap belt, and doesn't require the use of the base. That's ideal for parents who plan to take taxis or Uber rides and doesn't require the trip back and forth to the car to install a different seat. For instance, the Nuna Pipa Urbn as well as its equivalent TRIV travel system come with an extremely rigid LATCH system built right into the seat's bottom, making it quick and easy to install in any car. It can also be used both rear-facing (4-40 pounds) and forward-facing (22-65 pounds) and can be converted to the highback booster or backless belt-positioning booster (40-120 pounds). It's a great option for families with a limited budget.

Comfort

If your child is in a car seat for a long period of time, it's essential that they feel comfortable. This includes padded shoulder straps as well as soft fabrics that feel cozy against their tummy or back, and a growing headrest. Also, look for a seat that is easy to adjust as your child gets older.

A seat with many special features is often more expensive but also easier to use. This is why we take into consideration factors like a one-hand harness system, premium LATCH connectors, and a no-rethread harness when we evaluate infant car seats. We also take note of dimensions and weight since the weight or bulk of a seat could strain your biceps while you carry it in and out of your car or moving between cars.

Another option is a seat that has a load-leg, which is a safety feature which assists in stabilizing the car seat in the event of an accident. This safety feature is usually available in high-end seats, however there are a few affordable models that include it.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the height and weight limits. You'll want to ensure the seat will still be suitable for your child once they reach their maximum growth stage typically between the ages of two and three. Consider a convertible car seat for infants which can be converted into a toddler's seat. This option gives you more flexibility and is perfect for families who frequently change vehicles or travel.

Our test subjects loved the Doona, which combines an infant car seat and stroller in one. It's a great option for parents who are always on the move, especially those who take public transportation to commute to work or to school. It's also easy to set up. Our testers who were experts in the field appreciated its user-friendlyness with the one-handed latching system as well as the padded shoulder straps. Our product testers reported that the seat is small, which is important for those with a limited trunk room. Plus, it's free of harmful chemicals which is a major benefit for parents who are concerned about their baby's health and environment.

Convenience

The best infant car seats come with features that make it simple to use. The most comfortable infant car seats are equipped with features that make it easier for parents to get into and out of the seat. Check if the seat is able to be washed by a machine (to make cleaning easier) and if it has a canopy. This is beneficial both in the car and on the stroller.

One thing that might seem like a small difference but can save you a lot of hassle is an indicator on the base that will let you know that it's been properly installed. The line is located on the side of the base and should be in line with the ground when you're done. This is especially helpful when you're going to change the car seat frequently, or when your child will be traveling with you and you'll need to install it in Ubers or taxis.

A stroller that is compatible with the infant car seat can be connected directly to it. This makes it easier to transport your sleeping bundle to the store or to run errands. You don't need to struggle with the hassle of a separate car seat. This can be a life-changing option for parents who are looking for a way to return to normal after a long trip or a commute with a baby.

If you anticipate your baby to grow quickly opt for a car seat for babies with a higher weight or height limit than that recommended by the manufacturer. This will allow you to keep the car seat for longer.

All car seats sold in America must meet federal safety regulations however that doesn't mean that they're all in the same way. Some come with features that go above and beyond, including load legs that anchor the car seat's base for added stability and anti-rebound bars to reduce the chance of sustaining head injuries in crashes. Other features, such as a no-rethread harness and an extendable canopy, can also make for a more comfortable ride for baby and help you be a happier and more secure parent.