Shopping choosing a car seat, whether for a newborn, toddler, young child, or older child, can be challenging. No matter what age or stage your child is in, the parenting and engineering experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have tested dozens of car seats recently to help you make the right decision. As parents, we are aware that keeping your children safe in a car is your first priority, which is why car seats are a need. When used and installed properly, car seats cut the risk of infant death by more than 50%. Every state in the US has regulations requiring the use of car seats, especially for children under the age of five. Best Car Seats
When it comes to choosing the best car seat for your child, it’s important to consider factors such as safety, age/size appropriateness, ease of use, comfort, and brand reputation. While individual preferences and specific needs can vary, the following car seat brands have been consistently recommended and well-regarded for their quality and safety features:
It’s important to note that individual car seat models within these brands may vary in terms of specific features and suitability for different age groups. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and follow the recommendations for your child’s age, weight, and height.
Additionally, it’s advisable to consult trusted sources, such as consumer reports, expert reviews, and safety organizations, to stay updated on the latest safety standards and ratings for car seats. These resources can provide detailed information and recommendations based on thorough testing and evaluations.
You’ll rapidly become well-versed in the ins and outs of car seats, including when to switch a child from a rear-facing to a forward-facing position (not before age 2! ), how to use the LATCH system simply, the sometimes-herculean strength needed to achieve a snug fit, and the advantages of a removable, washable car seat cover. In general, you should consider the convenience of installation (including if it has built-in level indicators), ease of cleaning (based on fabric and removability), and stroller compatibility (only linked to infant car seats) when choosing the best car seat for your family. Of course, it’s crucial that the car seat truly fits snugly in your vehicle. We advise visiting a car-seat check for it.
Chicco KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex Infant Car Seat
- Cinch system and level indicators help with installation
- Base has an anti-rebound bar for added safety
- Large canopy with built-in privacy shield
- Compatible with many strollers
CONS
- Seat itself is a little big and heavy
The Chicco KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex Infant Car Seat is a specific model offered by Chicco. The KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex combines the features of the KeyFit infant car seat with the ClearTex fabric technology, which is designed to provide easy cleaning and protection against spills, stains, and odors. Here are some key features of the Chicco KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex Infant Car Seat:
It’s worth noting that car seat features and specifications can vary by model and version. It’s always recommended to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions for the specific car seat model you are considering to ensure it meets your requirements and is compatible with your vehicle.
| Item Dimensions | 28 x 16.75 x 22.5 Inches |
|---|---|
| Rear-Facing Limits | Up to 32 inches or 35 lbs (whichever comes first) |
| Forward-Facing Limits | This is rear-facing only |
| Car seat weight | 10.5 lbs |
| Base weight | 8.5 lbs |
Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One Car Seat
- Use from infancy through childhood
- Makes it easy to keep a child rear-facing longer
- Clicktight system eases installation
CONS
- Not stroller-compatible
- Heaviest car seat on our list
The Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One Car Seat is a versatile and long-lasting car seat designed to accommodate children from infancy to childhood. Here are the key features of the Britax One4Life ClickTight:
It’s important to note that while the Britax One4Life ClickTight offers versatility and convenience, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions to ensure proper installation and usage. Always consult the car seat manual and seek professional guidance when installing and using the car seat to ensure the safety of your child.
| Item Dimensions | 20.5 x 19.5 x 25 Inches |
|---|---|
| Rear-Facing Limits | 5 to 50 lbs |
| Forward-Facing Limits | 22 to 65 lbs |
| Booster Limits | 40 to 120 lbs |
| Car seat weight | 30 lbs |
Graco SlimFit3 LX
- Can fit three of these in most backseats
- Goes from birth to big kid
- 38K+ five-star Amazon reviews
CONS
- Unlike an infant seat, this stays in the car
The Graco SlimFit3 LX is a car seat manufactured by Graco, a well-known brand in the baby products industry. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Graco SlimFit3 LX had not been released. Therefore, I do not have specific information about this particular model.
Graco car seats are known for their safety features, comfort, and convenience. They typically offer multiple recline positions, adjustable headrests, and side-impact protection. The SlimFit line of car seats from Graco is designed to fit into smaller vehicles while still providing ample space and comfort for your child.
For the most up-to-date information on the Graco SlimFit3 LX, I recommend visiting the official Graco website or contacting Graco directly. They will be able to provide you with detailed specifications, features, and any other relevant information about this specific model.
| Item Dimensions | 20.7 x 16.7 x 24.5 Inches |
|---|---|
| Rear-Facing Limits | 5 to 40 lbs |
| Front-Facing Limits | 22 to 65 lbs |
| Booster Limits | 40-100 lbs |
| Car Seat Weight | 19.2 lbs |
UPPAbaby Mesa Max
- Load leg to help absorb crash forces
- Ease-to-adjust harness
- Lightest-weight car seat on our list
CONS
- Base is slightly larger than the regular MESA base
- Makes the most sense if you have an UPPAbaby stroller
The UPPAbaby Mesa Max is an infant car seat manufactured by UPPAbaby, a well-known brand in the baby gear industry. While I don’t have access to the latest information beyond my September 2021 knowledge cutoff, I can provide some general details about the UPPAbaby Mesa car seat line.
The UPPAbaby Mesa Max is an upgraded version of the UPPAbaby Mesa infant car seat. It is designed to provide enhanced safety features and added convenience for parents. Some of the features typically associated with the UPPAbaby Mesa car seats include:
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about the UPPAbaby Mesa Max, I recommend visiting the official UPPAbaby website or contacting UPPAbaby directly. They can provide you with the specific features, specifications, and any other details about this particular model.
| Item dimensions | 28.5 x 17 x 26.5 Inches |
|---|---|
| Rear-facing limits | Up to 32 inches or 35 lbs (whichever comes first) |
| Front-facing limits | This is rear-facing only |
| Car seat weight | 9.9 lbs |
| Base weight | 12.6 lbs |
Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
- Rear-facing, forward-facing and booster car seat
- Thick, comfortable headrest
- Comes in more than a half-dozen color choices
CONS
- Largest car seat on our list, fits best in SUVs
The Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One Convertible Car Seat is a popular car seat option manufactured by Maxi-Cosi, a well-known brand in the baby products industry. The Pria All-in-One is designed to accommodate children from birth to toddlerhood and can be used in multiple configurations to adapt to your child’s growth.
It’s important to note that specific features and details may vary depending on the exact model and version of the Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 34.5 x 20 x 30.5 Inches |
|---|---|
| Forward-Facing Limits | 4 to 40 lbs |
| Rear-Facing Limits | 22 to 65 lbs |
| Booster Limits | 40 to 100 lbs |
| Car Seat Weight | 22 lbs. |
Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe High Back Booster Car Seat
- Expanding sides for comfy fit
- Folds down and has carry strap for travel
CONS
- No five-point harness, so this is just for big kids
The Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe High Back Booster Car Seat is a child car seat designed to provide safety and comfort for older children. Here are some key features of the Diono Monterey 5iST:
It’s important to note that car seat regulations and guidelines may vary by country or region. Always consult the car seat manual and local regulations to ensure proper installation and use of the Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe High Back Booster Car Seat.
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 15 x 17 x 24.8 Inches |
|---|---|
| Rear-Facing Limits | This is forward-facing only |
| Forward-Facing Limits | 120 lbs. or 63 inches tall (whichever comes first) |
| Car Seat Weight | 18.7 lbs |
Graco TurboBooster LX Backless Booster
- Sits a child higher so that the seatbelt fits correctly
- Light and easy to move from car to car
- Cupholder and storage compartment
CONS
- No comfy headrest
- No special side-impact protection
The Graco TurboBooster LX Backless Booster is a car seat designed for older children who have outgrown traditional forward-facing car seats. Here are some key features of the Graco TurboBooster LX:
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and follow local car seat regulations and guidelines to ensure proper installation and use of the Graco TurboBooster LX Backless Booster. It’s also essential to regularly check the seat for any recalls or safety updates.
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 15.5 x 17.5 x 8.64 Inches |
|---|---|
| Rear-Facing Limits | This seat only faces forward |
| Forward-Facing Limits | 40 to 100 lbs and 43 to 57 inches tall |
| Car Seat Weight | 5.5 lbs |
The best car seat for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as the age, weight, and height of your child. However, here are some highly regarded car seats across different categories:
It’s important to note that car seat safety regulations and guidelines may vary by country or region. Always ensure that the car seat you choose meets the applicable safety standards and is properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations. Additionally, consider factors such as ease of installation, comfort, durability, and additional features when selecting a car seat.