Top Infant Car Seats for 2021

When traveling with kids, you want to make sure your most precious cargo is well-protected in an accident. Car seats quickly become obsolete and new ones arrive on the market. Here is a look at some of the top infant car seats for 2021 and what they provide.

Graco Extend Convertible Car Seat

This convertible car seat has a 50-pound weight limit for rear-facing and is designed for little ones and older babies. The extension panel provides up to five inches in extra legroom and converts from rear-facing to front-facing as your child grows, making the price of $169 more affordable. Once you turn it to front-facing, it will hold a child up to 65 pounds.

Graco SlimFit

Another top option from Graco is the SlimFit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat with a 100-pound weight limit to last for years. It also features four positions for reclining. At just $10 more than the Graco Extend, this seat is the only one you will need with a maximum of 40 pounds for rear-facing, 65 pounds for front-facing, and 100 pounds for the highback booster. Since it has a slim design, this model is the perfect choice if you have multiple kids in car seats. Dual cup holders provide space for drinks and snacks within easy reach.

Safety 1st Grow and Go

This car seat from Safety 1st fits in well amidst the Graco models. As a rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seat, it carries a 100-pound maximum weight with three reclining positions. A QuickFit harness easily adjusts the harness and headrest at the same time. Pillows grow with the baby to provide additional comfort while side impact protection offers extra peace of mind for you. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a Good Bet rating when used in booster mode.

Graco 4Ever DLX Joslyn

This car seat from Graco is a heavy-duty model with a weight limit of 120 pounds and six positions for reclining. It works both front and rear-facing to grow with your child. Just be aware that it weighs almost 23 pounds, so you’ll get a good arm workout as well. This model is also easy to keep clean without taking up your time with the RapidRemove cover, which can be taken off the base without uninstalling the seat. While this model isn’t cheap at around $250, it saves money in the long run with ten years of use.

Chicco KeyFit 30

For buyers looking at a rear-facing seat only, this model is sure to impress. It comes with multiple reclining positions and a 30-pounds maximum weight limit. The seat itself weighs in at 20 pounds and includes a removable body and head support for newborns. This model is also compatible with strollers from the same manufacturer.

How to select the best infant car seat

When buying a car seat for your baby, the numerous choices can be overwhelming. If you’ve never operated one of these seats before, the buttons, latches, and belts may be quite confusing.

Budget is critical for most new parents, but it shouldn’t be the only factor. One of the most important considerations is how it works for you. If you’re looking for a simple system to get your baby in and out quickly, the infant seat with a base is the best option. It only takes a few seconds to latch or unlatch, and you hear that audible click to know you did it correctly.

For others, they may want to buy one product that lasts. A convertible is the best option for their needs, and this type comes in a wide range of prices.

Safety ratings is another important part of your research. Both the IIHS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have ratings for baby car seats. Check out their websites as you shop for a product that fits your lifestyle.

Some of these seats come with added bells and whistles. These features aren’t necessary to the safety of your baby, but they can be nice to have. Cup holders are one such amenity that many parents consider essential.

Before you buy a car seat for your infant, take the time to do the research and find one that provide peace of mind. You’ll feel better, knowing your newborn is safe and content in a seat as you travel.