Undeniably, adult car seats aren’t suitable for infants, especially newborns whose neck and spine are highly imbalanced. In such cases, an infant car seat can be a safer option to keep your newborn snuggle and fit into adult car seats comfortably! So, we at Smoresup have created an exclusive list to pick the best infant car seat. We have considered user reviews, skimmed through diverse brands, and tested more than fifty products to get here. We made sure to list the brands that are true to their product specs. Also, we made sure to pick only the safest and certified car seats so that they don’t harm your child in any way.
Buying Guide
If this is your first infant car seat shopping, then picking the right one among the masses can turn arduous. So, there are some factors to consider to land on the most suitable option,
- Types Available:
When it comes to infant car seats, you will find different types available just like cribs and cots. However, there are three basic kinds of car seats. The rear-facing car seat is ideal for newborns, especially when you bring them home for the first time. There is also a forward-facing car seat that best suits toddlers. Additionally, you will also find convertible car seats that can act as both rear and forward-facing seats.
- Capacity:
When you buy an infant car seat, never overlook its capacity. The capacity of a car seat refers to the maximum weight it can bear. On average, most infant car seats can hold up to 35 pounds, but this figure differs with different brands and models.
- Assembly:
You will have to correctly assemble and install the infant car seat on your car so that you can precisely position your baby in it. To ensure this, always check if the product consists of all necessary parts. Most infant car seats have a base, a carrier, and other belt accessories but the parts/installation can differ based on the type.
- Additional features:
You can also look out for additional features usually relating to extra safety, like side-impact protection or an impact shield. Other features that add comfort to your baby include a removable pillow, a later headrest, a pitch control system, etc.
- Price range:
Infant car seats cost between $70 and $200, on average. It’s always better to avoid investing too much in a car seat that your child will overgrow in the subsequent year. It is sensible to pay extra when the product offers unique and additional features.
Top 10 Best Car seats for your infant
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1. Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This KeyFit30 infant car seat from Chicco tops our list of the best-rated infant car seats due to its easy installation, impressive safety features, and immense assertive reviews from buyers. This infant seat can go with all car seat types and even on strollers from Chicco.
Special features:
- Newborn positioner
- SuperCinch tightener
- Easy leveling
- One-pull harness
- Zip-off canopy, visor, and around boot
Product Specification:
- Style: Rear-facing
- Brand: Chicco
- Installation type: Latch
- Material: Foam
- Color: Orion
- Max weight recommendation: 30 pounds
- Item dimensions: 27.5 x 17 x 24 inches
Detailed Review:
This Chicco infant seat comes with a sturdy base that can also work as a stay-in-car base so that you will only have to carry and fix the carrier. Also, with the ReclineSure leveling foot and two RideRight bubble level indicators on the base, you can quickly get the desired angle inclination on the car seat. The carrier includes removable lateral head support for fragile newborns. It also has a sturdy canopy for sun protection and, the carrier shell has energy-absorbing foam, so your infant will be safe from impact damage.
This infant car seat is also the best in terms of safety due to its additional features. The batch has latch connectors and a tightener for a secure and comfortable lock.
Pros
- Classic wooden toy
- Countless ways to repeat the game
- Also a Christmas decor
- Aids in numerical learning
- Introduces Christmas in a hands-on way
Cons
- Slightly difficult release handle operation
3. Diono Radian 3R Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This infant car seat from Graco is convertible and has two modes, the rear-facing, and the forward-facing, to accommodate babies within the weight range of 4 to 65 pounds. I subjectively loved the 5″ additional legroom that comes in rear-facing mode for longer rear-facing travels.
Special features:
- 4-position extension panel
- No Rethread
- 10-position headrest
- 6-position recline
- Cup holders to hold feeding bottles
Product Specification:
- Style: Convertible
- Brand: Graco
- Installation type: Latch
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Kenzie
- Max weight recommendation: 65 pounds
- Item dimensions: 22.1 x 19.2 x 25.2 inches
Detailed Review:
This infant car seat comes with a 10-position headrest with no-rethread. The harness works remarkably well to offer the necessary support your baby needs with ten adjustable positions as they grow. It also includes a safety harness system, so you adjust the harness according to your child’s needs anytime.
The latch installation is very convenient and, the Push-button InRight Latch provides an easy, one-second attachment. Your baby’s movement in and out of the car is also secure with the no-fuss harness storage.
The best part is the easy-to-read indicator- you can always know the precise state of the belt and locks! On the whole, with a steel-reinforced frame, this car seat is sturdy and must last significantly longer.
Pros
- Classic wooden toy
- Countless ways to repeat the game
- Also a Christmas decor
- Aids in numerical learning
- Introduces Christmas in a hands-on way
Cons
- The printed tree layer may peel off with time
3. Diono Radian 3R Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This Diono infant car seat bagged the premium pick tag on our list because it is the best-rated convertible infant seat. Due to its convertible feature, this infant car seat can serve your baby’s needs for up to four years, making it a worthwhile investment.
Special features:
- Slim Fit convertible seat
- Reinforced steel core
- Frame made of high-density plastic
- Aluminum reinforced sides
- 3 modes in 1
Product Specification:
- Style: Convertible seat
- Brand: Diono
- Installation type: Latch
- Material: Foam, Plastic, Metal
- Color: Black jet
- Max weight recommendation: 120 lb
- Item dimensions: 16 x 17 x 28.5 inches
Detailed Review:
This infant car seat from Diono can serve a rear, forward-facing, and booster mode, all in one. Rear-facing further has two inclination modes, one for newborns and the other, a longer inclination. The forward-facing mode can accommodate up to 65 lb comfortably.
The high booster mode best suits preschoolers who can no longer feel comfortable on the forward-facing seat. So, precisely, you can accommodate different-aged kids or keep this infant seat serving you for years.
The reinforced steel core and aluminum side walls provide an extreme level of safety without compromising on their comfort with too many belts and closures.
Pros
- Easy click installation
- Energy-absorbing foam
- Serves up to ten years
- Five color variants
- Custom adjustable fit
Cons
- No head support
4. Century Infant Car Seat and Stroller
Editor’s point:
This Century lightweight infant car seat comes with a foldable baby stroller and is the best combo offer you will ever find at this price. This pack of two best suits babies who require a stroller for movement post-travel, as a car seat can double up and fit into the stroller without any hassle.
Special features:
- 15 lb weighing stroller
- Lightweight car seat
- Self-standing fold
- Compact, foldable stroller
- Comes with a canopy and visor
Product Specification:
- Style: Stroller, carry-on infant seat
- Brand: Century
- Material: Polyester, foam
- Color: Splash
- Max weight recommendation: 50 pounds
- Item dimensions: 26.4 x 18.6 x 18.5 inches
Detailed Review:
This combo pack from Century consists of a rear-facing infant car seat and a self-standing stroller- just the perfect baby companion outdoors. The stroller and the car seat come with a washable internal lining and is one of the best rated infant car seats.
Like most other infant car seats, this product involves a super-easy installation with sturdy latches for the utmost safety of your child. The carrier can be detached using an easy-to-operate release handle. Also, there is a removable canopy and visor for sunshade.
The stroller on bonus is remarkably lightweight, easy to carry, and can accommodate fragile newborns weighing even 5 pounds.
Pros
- Multi-position reclining seat
- Storage tray on stroller for stacking diapers
- Locking and flexible stroller wheels
- Canopy and visor for sunshade
- Peek-a-boo window
Cons
- Slightly arduous installation
5. Baby Trend Cover Me Convertible Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This convertible infant car seat from Baby Trend is one of the top rated infant car seats due to its 4 in 1 multipurpose serving feature. This car seat can work as a baby rear, forward, belt-positioning booster, and infant rear seat. I subjectively loved its compact structure, this car seat does not eat up too much space and can fit three seats at the back.
Special features:
- 5 position adjustable canopy
- Built-in side visor
- Zero radius recline
- Additional recline angles
- Extra padded cabin seat
Product Specification:
- Style: Convertible
- Brand: Baby Trend
- Installation type: Latch
- Material: Foam
- Color: Scooter
- Max weight recommendation: 100 pounds
- Item dimensions: 18.5 x 18.25 x 28.63 inches
Detailed Review:
This infant seat offers two practical rear-facing modes, namely the infant and toddler rear-facing seats. With an appropriate weight-bearing capacity, the cabinet seat is made out of premium materials and contains extra padding for comfort and shock resistance.
The forward-facing mode accommodates toddlers. It comes with a harness and can accommodate kids weighing between 22 and 65 lbs. The belt-positioning booster mode for preschoolers keeps the child intact, controlling unsafe movements.
One unique feature you will love is the UPF 50+ canopy that is adjustable and has five height positions. The reclination is pretty easy and convenient with the Zero radius recline plus flip foot for dual recline adjustment.
Pros
- No harness headrest
- Adjustable and removable canopy
- Flip-out side visors
- Two deep cup holders
- Three color variants
Cons
- Can get dirty
6. Evenflo Gold Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This infant car seat from Evenflo is one of the top infant car seats and is loved for its appealing frame, attractive color variants, and smart features. Also, this secureMax car seat is lightweight and is portable, doubling up as a baby carrier.
Special features:
- Full coverage canopy
- Removable inserts
- Extra cushioning
- Chest clip
- Wireless receiver and app connectivity
Product Specification:
- Style: Rear-facing
- Brand: Evenflo
- Installation type: Latch
- Color: Opal
- Max weight recommendation: 35 pounds
- Item dimensions: 26.5 x 16 x 26 inches
Detailed Review:
This infant car seat is of the rear-facing type and, its load leg technology improves stability and reduces rotations up to 50% during extreme collisions. This seat also comes with removable side inserts. These when used give the perfect support for newborns and fragile babies. The premium, skin-friendly fabric offers the utmost comfort to your child and, the adjustable canopy can provide instant sunshade. Due to the no-thread harness, the seat is very flexible to adjustments without repetitive reinstalls.
This infant car seat comes with a safety chest clip that gets wirelessly connected to the brand’s app. The app warns you about unbuckling, seat warming, and any other sign that indicates your baby is unsafe or uncomfortable.
Pros
- Car seat stabilization via load leg technology
- Adjustable canopy
- Quick latch installation
- No-thread harness
- Instant warning signs
- Five color variants
Cons
- Slightly expensive
7. Cosco Light N Comfy DX Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This infant car seat is the most affordable rear-facing infant seat and, you can never find one in this price range. It is also lightweight and extremely convenient to carry and has been one of our budget-friendly favorites. I subjectively loved that the seat pad is washable- you will not have to worry about milk stains.
Special features:
- Latch-equipped with latch storage
- Instant insert for babies
- Side impact protection
- Easy to clean parts
- Foam carrier seat
Product Specification:
- Style: Rear-facing
- Brand: Cosco
- Installation type: Latch
- Color: Blue Elephant puzzle
- Max weight recommendation: 22pounds
- Item dimensions: 31 x 18 x 14 inches
Detailed Review:
This rear-facing infant car seat from Cosco best suits newborns and babies under 22 pounds and not for toddlers. However, it can accommodate fragile newborns weighing anywhere near 4 pounds with the inserts for extra support. The car seat comes with a secure 5-point harness and Side Impact Protection, offering the utmost safety during regular travels. Also, the carrier seat, made of EPS energy-absorbing foam, can effectively manage impacts and allow a wholesome collision resistance. One feature you will love is this infant car seat is certified for usage in airplanes and gives a similar travel experience as a car to your little one.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Airplane friendly
- Adjustable canopy
- Shock-resistant seat
- Machine-washable seat pad
Cons
- Low weight-bearing capacity
8. Maxi-Cosi Mico 30 Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This infant car seat from Maxi-Cosi has a stay-in-car adjustable base and a lightweight carrier that can go on strollers from the brand. One thing to like about this product is the Self-wicking fabric, which can wick sweat and offer air circulation during long drives.
Special features:
- Countered carry handle
- Self-wicking fabric
- Removable seat pad
- Includes infant pillow
- Side impact protection
Product Specification:
- Style: Rear-facing
- Brand: Maxi-Cosi
- Installation type: Latch
- Color: Midnight Black
- Max weight recommendation: 30 pounds
- Item dimensions: 31 x 18 x 16 inches
Detailed Review:
This rear-facing infant car seat best suits newborns and infants, weighing below 30 pounds and 32″ tall. The stay-in adjustable car base and the carrier system eases portability and, the side impact resistors offer utmost safety.
The infant car seat comes with extra-plush cushioning for that extra support fragile newborns need. The cushioned infant pillow provides enough support to keep your kid’s head safe and aligned the right way.
With one-click latch installation, you can also enjoy the easy installation and, the release handle lets you remove the carrier without any hassle.
Pros
- 5 point harness cover
- Machine-washable seat pad
- Adjustable canopy
- Flip-out visors
- Nine color variants
Cons
- Slightly loose straps
9. Summer Affirm 335 Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This infant seat from summer Affirm has impeccable safety shield features from side to rear and front impact tested standards. This infant seat can also go over strollers from the brand with an easy release system to flip out the carrier from the base.
Special features:
- Float Carry design
- Impact protection
- 5 point harness
- Adjustable foot
- Adjustable canopy
Product Specification:
- Style: Rear-facing
- Brand: Summer Infant
- Installation type: Latch
- Color: Stone Grey
- Max weight recommendation: 35 pounds
- Item dimensions: 28.5 x 17.5 x 14.5 inches
Detailed Review:
This infant car seat has a broad weight range accommodation. It best suits remarkably smaller and fragile babies weighing from 3 pounds securely. The 5 point harness is specifically designed to hold smaller babies and comes with a padded surface.
With the safety standards, this product has exceptional features. It has a Steeloc arm that reinforces the base onto the car seat, adding an extra layer of protection. The integrated rebound handle is for added support and impact resistance.
Also, the carrier is lightweight, weighs less than 8 pounds, making the carrier easy to move and carry from the base.
Pros
- Conforms to ASTM 2050
- Alternative base free installation
- Safe and sturdy metal base
- Large carrying handle
- Four color variants
Cons
- Indicator not precise
- Small canopy
10. CYBEX Sirona S Infant Car Seat
Editor’s point:
This convertible infant car seat from Cybex is the first car seat in the US that offers 360-degree rotation with smart sensors. I loved the fact that it has provenly aided in easy conversion between rear and front-facing. And also in getting the child in and out of the car without any hassle where most seats fail.
Special features:
- 360° rotatable seat
- EasyLock bar
- Sensorsafe chest clip
- Adjustable headrest
- Liner-side impact protection
Product Specification:
- Style: Convertible
- Brand: Cybex
- Installation type: Latch
- Color: Pepper Black
- Max weight recommendation: 65 pounds
- Item dimensions: 25.3 x 20 x 25.5 inches
Detailed Review:
This rotatable infant car seat from Cybex comes with magnetic buckle holders to securely hold newborns weighing even 4 pounds. The carrier comes with a 12-position recline and works remarkably without having to reinstall.
For additional safety features, this car seat has a load leg technology that stabilizes the car seat and works well in reduces seat rotations during collisions. The chest clip and the sensor safe app connectivity quickly updates on any unsafe signs.
With the installation, you can enjoy a one-time installation with an easy-lock bar that also doubles up easy conversion from rear to forward with the seat installed!
Pros
- 25% extra impact-absorbing design
- Anti-rebound design
- One-time belt installation
- Precise dual level indicators
- Three color variants
Cons
- No canopy
- Expensive
How have I ranked the products in this list of best infant car seats?
We have made this list to pick the best infant car seat principally after contemplating mixed customer reviews. We also compared the product specs and ranked the ones having a broad range of additional features first. Further, infant car seats that have a lower minimum weight capacity bagged significant ranks on the list. Other factors considered are the presence of the canopy, ease of installation, convertibility, safety features, etc.
Care And Maintances:
- Quick clean for wet stains: As infant car seats, they are prone to get stained regularly. In such cases, never leave a wet-stain to stay for long. When you encounter one, quickly wipe it off. Use some wipes or a sponge.
- Washing the cover: Start by checking the label and find if the seat pad or cover is washable. If so, you can machine-wash the cover once every week, air dry, and put it back in place. If they are not, solely use a microfiber cloth/sterilizer to clean the seat.
- Cleaning the frame: You can use a vacuum cleaner or a baby detergent and water to wipe off the frame. Further, you can use the detergent and some warm water to clean the harness and buckle but only after disassembly.
FAQ
Q1. How long can I use an infant car seat?
Most infant car seats can accommodate babies between three months and seven years. Some can even accommodate newborns. But it solely depends on the product and the maximum weight capacity it can hold.
Q2. At what age should I go for a forward-facing conversion?
With most convertible infant car seats, you can switch from rear-facing to forward-facing usually. This can happen at the age and use it till five. Later, you can go with a boost belt system.
Q3. Can a six-month-old go on a forward-facing seat?
Forward-facing infant seats best suit babies weighing around 20 pounds and above. However, for a six-month-old weighing less than 20 pounds, it is better to use a rear-facing seat.
Q4. Which is the safest place to install an infant seat?
Any infant car seat must always go in the backseat. Further, it is better to place it in the center if possible. If not, anywhere in the backseat is decently a safe choice.
Q5. Can I put two infant car seats next to each other?
Yes. You can put two infant seats next to each other. But it can differ with different brands. So, always check the dimensions and cross-check it with your seats’ measurements.
