Best Infant Seat Features

While all infant seats conform to the federal safety standards, some are more than others. From extra padding to a cushioned inlay for newborns to the ability to raise and lower the headrest without rethreading, our best car seats for infants of the Bump winner offers many features parents will love.

When selecting our top picks, we considered factors such as weight (without base), stroller compatibility, extra features and prices. Find out the best infant seat for you and your family by reading.

Safety

Every infant car seat available on the market must meet the safety standards of the federal government. However, some seats come with extra features that are beyond the minimum standards. These can include load legs and a built-in rethreader sides that can hold straps, and more. The more features a car seat comes with the better, according the experts I spoke with.

The more intuitive the car seat, the more likely that parents will use it properly. This will lower their child’s risk of injury in the event of a crash. This is especially important with an infant seat, since it's designed for only a brief period of time. Find a seat with an indicator that bubbles and a spring-loaded reclining foot to make it easier to level the seat. Also, ensure that the base can be easily clicked in and out of the car.

Some car seat manufacturers offer high-end features like the no-rethread strap and magnetic buckle holders and side grips for the seat. These are wonderful but remember that a safe car seat is still only as secure as the vehicle you're driving in. There are tips in the owner's manual about how to secure your infant's car seat, and also learn more about the car's safety features.

When you are choosing an rotating infant car seat car seat, be aware that you will only be able use it for a period of about two years before your child is old enough to transition to the convertible seat. This is why some families choose to leave out an infant car seat and move straight to a convertible car seat, which has higher height and weight limits. If you decide to purchase an infant car seat, make sure to take into account the dimensions of your car and try out a variety of models before committing to one. You can ensure that the seat is comfortable for the child, fits in your car, and has convenient features such as converting it to a stroller. Don't forget to look for recalls on the product before you buy it. It's essential to ensure the safety of your child on the road.

Simple to Use

If you're using the seat in one vehicle or moving it among many, you need an infant car seat that is simple to set up and remove from the base. Look for clear instructions on installation and a smooth operation. Also, think about how it is simple to alter the car seat as your baby grows, and the quality of the materials used.

A great feature that many infant seats come with is a load leg that acts as an extra brace between the base of the seat and the car's floor, providing additional stability in the event of an accident. It's an especially important feature for those who drive an older vehicle, since the risk of sustaining head injuries in a crash is higher when an infant is seated close to the ground, as per research conducted by Consumer Reports.

Other premium features can improve the baby car seat experience. They include a no rethread harness, and an anti-rebound bar to keep the seat from bouncing in a crash. The latter has been shown to reduce the risk of head injury by up to 43 percent. The Evenflo's LiteMax DLX is a fantastic choice for those with a tight budget and looking for a car seat that's ARC-certified and comes with a number of top features. Jennifer LaBracio, Babylist's gear editor, suggests it. The seat has been awarded an exemplary rating from safety experts for children and features an adjustable no-rethread harness and five recline settings, and an extended canopy that is secured with magnets to ensure complete coverage.

A seat that can be easily installed using only lapbelts and does not require the need for the base is an alternative. That's ideal for parents who plan to use taxis or Uber rides, and doesn't require the return trip to the car to install a new seat. For example, the Nuna Pipa Urbn as well as its equivalent TRIV travel system come with a rigid LATCH system that's built right into the bottom of the seat making it quick and easy to put in any car. It can also be used with a rear-facing (4-40 pounds) and forward-facing (22-65 pounds) and can also be converted into the highback booster or belt-positioning booster with a backless design (40-120 pounds). This is a great choice for those on a tight budget.

Comfort

If your child is in car seats for extended periods of time, it's crucial that they feel comfortable. This means straps for the shoulders that are padded, plush fabric to feel cozy against their tummy or back, as well as a sturdier headrest. Also, look for a seat you can easily adjust as your child grows.

While a seat that has lots of features might cost more however, they are also more convenient to use. That's why we look at factors like a one-hand harness system, premium LATCH connectors and a no-rethread harness when evaluating infant car seats. We also look at the weight and dimensions of the seat, because the weight or size of the seat can strain your biceps when you transport it into and out of your vehicle, or even between vehicles.

A seat with a load leg -- a safety feature that assists in stabilizing the car seat in the event of a crash--is another good choice. This extra safety feature is usually only found in expensive seats however, there are a few affordable models that come with it.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the height and weight limits. You'll want to ensure the seat is safe for your child after they reach their peak growth rate usually around age two or three. You should also consider a convertible car seat for infants which can be transformed into a toddler seat. This option gives you a little more flexibility in your car and is perfect for families who often switch vehicles or travel.

Our testers were impressed with the Doona that combines the car seat of an infant and a stroller in one piece. It's a great option for parents who are constantly moving around, particularly those who use public transport to commute to work or go to school. It's also easy to put in. Our experts who tested it praised its ease of use, including the one-handed latching system and the padded shoulders straps. Our product testers also remarked how compact the seat is and is an essential for those with limited trunk space. It's also free of any flame retardant chemical which is a huge benefit for parents who are concerned about their baby's surroundings and health.

Convenience

The best car seat for newborn infant carrier seat seats have features that make it easy to use. The most comfortable infant car seats are equipped with convenience features that make it easy for parents to get into and out of the seat. Check if the seat is able to be machine washed (to facilitate cleaning) and if it comes with a canopy. This is helpful in the car seats by age as well as on a stroller.

A feature on the base can save you lots of time and headaches. It will let you know when it has been installed correctly. The line should be parallel to the ground and should be located on the base. It can be particularly helpful when you'll be switching the car seat between vehicles frequently, or if you intend to travel with your baby and you'll need to install the seat in Ubers or taxis.

A stroller that is compatible with the infant car seat can be attached directly to it. This makes it easier to take your baby to the grocery store, or to run the errands. You don't have to worry about an additional carrier. This can be a huge advantage for parents with newborns who want to return to their routine after a long commute or outing with a newborn.

If you are expecting your baby to grow quickly opt for the car seat for babies with a higher weight or height limit than that recommended by the manufacturer. You can use the car seat for a longer period of time.

While all car seats sold in the United States must meet federal safety standards, that doesn't mean all seats are made equal. Some seats have extra features, like load legs that support the seat's base to increase stability and anti-rebound bars that reduce the chance of head injuries in crashes. Other extras, such as a no-rethread harness and an extendable canopy, can also provide an easier ride for your baby and allow you become a more relaxed and more confident parent.