Best baby car seat

As you have opened this page, I can be fairly certain that you are considering to buy a car seat for your baby. I really appreciate the thought because it means you give priority to your baby’s safety. You don’t have the misconception that baby car seats are for use abroad and not a necessity on Indian roads while the fact remains that if an accident occurs with an unrestrained baby in a car, then speeding at even 40 Kmph may end up being fatal for the baby

Now, when it comes to choosing a baby car seat, you have several options to go by. Either you can choose an infant car seat till the baby is about one year to fifteen months old (usually up to 13kg) and then transition to a convertible car seat after the baby turns one. Once the baby outgrows the convertible car seat (usually baby is about 4 years or 20kg and above) you use a booster seat till the child is about 7 years.

When you choose to buy an infant seat and then transition to a convertible baby seat, you will definitely have to shell out more money. But the advantage is that if your baby sleeps in the infant seat, you can easily carry the seat home without disturbing his/her sleep. So if your little one’s sleep is precious, buy an infant car seat for the first year and then move him/her to a convertible baby seat. Optionally, you can get a travel system, which comes with an infant car seat that can be snapped on to the stroller. That way, it’s a lot easier to carry your sleeping baby when you go for shopping or an evening stroll. If your baby is not asleep, you can use just the stroller without attaching the infant seat to it.

The next option is to buy a convertible car seat that can be used from newborn days. This way, you don’t have to spend anything on an infant car seat. But you won’t be able to carry the car seat around like an infant car seat.

Whatever option you choose, it’s very important to learn to install the car seat properly, failing which the purpose of a baby car seat is not met. Take a look at the video below to have a proper idea on how to install a baby car seat.

Always install the car seat in the rear seats of the car. If you are installing a booster chair in the front seat, ensure that the air bag is deactivated.

Till the baby is 10 kg (or till manufacturer recommended age) install the car seat facing the rear side.

Take frequent stops on a long journey so that baby doesn’t get tired and cranky.

For the baby’s safety, insist of travelling in the car seat always even if it’s a trip to nearby grocery store. Babies get used to their car seats only if they are made to sit in it from the very early days.

Never leave the car seat unsecured in the car.

Avoid using second hand car seats as it may have damages that are not visible to naked eye and it may compromise the baby’s safety.

Below are some of the best options of infant car seat and convertible baby seat that provides maximum safety and comfort for your little one.

Graco obviously is an expensive option. But it offers safety, protection and comfort that the budget-friendly car seats do not offer.

Graco Evo Snugsafe with 5-point harness system is lightweight, yet has firm padding that offers sufficient support and comfortable seating for newborns up till the age of 1 year or till they weigh 13 kg. In addition, the padded insert provides extra support for newborns’ head and neck. The side padding also provides maximum protection against side impacts.  The reclinable handle and being lightweight also makes it easier to carry around.

A drawback however is that newborns weighing less than 3 kg might find it a tad uncomfortable keeping their legs apart for buckling up.

With firm padding, side impact protection features, single pull seat belt mechanism and rocking function, Chicco Keyfit is all about safety, comfort and multi-functionality. The seat is easy to install and is lightweight with an ergonomic handle that makes it easier to carry around the baby.

It is also compatible with Chicco Cortina stroller that makes it easy for moving around with your baby.

A drawback however is the hefty price tag. Considering its short lifespan of just till baby is around 12-15 months, you do wonder whether to opt for a superior convertible seat instead.