The best infant car seat is one that fits your budget, your vehicle and your child. Infant car seats are always rear facing and usually replaced with convertible car seats after the child has grown over 20lbs. All car seats sold in the US have passed the same federal crash test. The differences in the seats are not in the safety but it in the options.

 However car seats do expire, usually around 6yrs, but check the make and model to verify exact expiration. Buying used car seats can seem economical but be VERY careful because of the expiration date and because you may not know the history of the seat. If it was in an accident you do not want it. Keep in mind the safety of your child.

 

Infant-only seats

  • Are small and have carrying handles (and sometimes come as part of a stroller system).
  • Are used for infants up to 22 to 32 pounds, depending on the model.
  • Many come with a base that can be left in the car. The seat clicks into and out of the base so you don’t have to install the base each time you use it. Parents can buy more than one base for additional vehicles.

One of the more popular and economic models that have a base is the Graco SnugRide 32 Infant Car Seat

featuring

 
  • Fits 97% of one year-olds to keep your child rear-facing for one full year
  • Convenient, stay-in-car base with seat belt lock-off and adjustment dial to help insure secure installation
  • Engineered and crash tested to meet or exceed U.S. standard
  • 5-point harness with front adjustment helps keep baby secure
  • 180 degrees rotating canopy with peek-a-boo window helps shade your child from any direction