Nuna PIPA Aire RX with RELX Base installed in vehicle

Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seat Comparison: What is the best Nuna PIPA?

June 20, 2025

Stephanie Giustino

At Bambi Baby, we have the privilege of working with countless families—each with their own unique needs, styles, and parenting priorities. But there’s one request we hear time and time again: “I know I want a PIPA.”

It’s a phrase parents confidently proclaim every day. And we get it! Whether it’s through glowing social media recommendations, trusted word of mouth, or “Best of” lists where Nuna consistently ranks at the top, most new parents quickly discover Nuna when beginning their infant car seat search.

Choosing a Nuna PIPA is an easy decision. But choosing which Nuna PIPA? That’s where things get a little tricky. With several models all sharing the beloved PIPA name, how do you know which one is the right fit for your family?

In this guide, we’ll break down the full Nuna PIPA Series lineup, dive into safety must-haves, highlight the standout features, and explore what makes each model shine—so you can confidently choose the PIPA that checks all your boxes.

Why choose a Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seat?

Before we compare models, let’s take a moment to explore why Nuna has become a go-to for parents around the world—especially when it comes to infant car seats.

Nuna is a globally trusted brand known for its beautifully designed, high-quality baby gear that doesn’t compromise on function or safety. Founded in the Netherlands in 2007, Nuna introduced its PIPA series to the U.S. market in 2018—bringing European safety innovations stateside and immediately raising the bar for American car seats.

Families quickly took notice. With a focus on advanced safety, ease of use, and refined aesthetics, Nuna infant car seats offer the full package. The brand prioritizes organic, responsibly sourced materials and holds certifications like GREENGUARD Gold, ensuring low chemical emissions and healthier air quality for your baby.

What makes the PIPA line especially appealing? It checks nearly every box:

Top-tier safety features
Lightweight designs
Sophisticated, modern style
User-friendly installation and function
Premium, eco-conscious materials

And perhaps most notably, Nuna infant car seats feature universal connection points—making them compatible with a wide range of strollers, even outside of the Nuna family. That kind of versatility is a major win for modern families looking to adapt as their needs change.

How many Nuna PIPA Infant Car Seats are there?

Nuna currently offers four infant car seat models:

The PIPA Aire, PIPA RX, and PIPA Aire RX are sold separately from Nuna Strollers, giving parents the flexibility to mix and match with a variety of Nuna strollers—or even pair with compatible models from other stroller brands.

At this time, the PIPA Urbn is available only as part of a travel system, meaning it comes bundled exclusively with select Nuna strollers. While this may limit your stroller options, being "stuck" with a Nuna stroller is hardly a drawback. Nuna’s lineup features best-in-class models across every stroller category, so chances are high you’ll find a PIPA Urbn travel system that fits your family’s lifestyle like a glove.

Understanding Infant Car Seat Safety Features

Yes, Nuna car seats are packed with advanced safety features—but don’t just take our word for it! It’s important for parents to understand what those features actually are and how they help protect your baby.

While all car seats sold in the U.S. must meet minimum federal safety standards, not all car seats are created equal. Manufacturers in the U.S. aren’t required to publish their crash test data, which can make it difficult for families to compare options objectively. Third-party websites often attempt to fill this gap, but their testing methods and scoring systems can vary greatly—and may reflect bias or skewed information.

That’s why it’s so important to be informed. When choosing an infant car seat, prioritize models that go beyond the basics. Brands, like Nuna, incorporate enhanced safety technologies designed to exceed US standards and offer real-world protection in a variety of crash scenarios.

Of course, even the safest car seat can’t do its job if it’s not installed correctly. Proper installation is just as important as advanced safety features. Always choose a car seat you feel confident using—one with clear instructions, intuitive design, reliable installation methods, and correct installation indictors.

Now, let’s take a look at the key safety features every parent should know—all of which, are offered by Nuna.

NUNA PIPA RELX Base being installed by a mom

Stability Leg

A stability leg (or load leg) extends from the infant car seat base to the floor of the vehicle, reducing rotation in a crash and helping to distribute crash forces more evenly.

Rigid LATCH

Unlike standard LATCH installations, rigid LATCH directly connects the car seat frame to the vehicle’s structure, offering enhanced stability and reducing movement during a crash.

Anti-Rebound Panel

This feature is included on rear facing seats to minimizes the rebound motion that occurs after a collision, keeping the car seat more stable and stopping it from moving too far forward or backward.

Energy-Absorbing Foam

Car seats are lined with impact-absorbing foam to help distribute crash forces. There are two main types:

EPS Foam: Offers good impact absorption but is more prone to breaking over time.
EPP Foam: More durable, flexible, and resistant to mold and bacteria, often found in premium car seats and associated with GREENGUARD Gold certification for low chemical emissions.

Flame-Retardant-Free Materials

Nuna eliminates the necessity of harmful flame-retardant chemicals by using naturally fire-resistant materials.

GREENGUARD Certification

Car seats can contain chemicals that off-gas over time, potentially affecting air quality.

GREENGUARD Certified seats meet rigorous standards for low chemical emissions, reducing exposure to pollutants.
GREENGUARD Gold Certified car seats have been tested for over 10,000 chemicals and meet stricter standards for low emissions, ensuring a healthier environment for children, especially those with respiratory sensitivities.

Choosing a GREENGUARD or GREENGUARD Gold Certified seat reduces your child’s exposure to harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and creates a healthier environment inside your car.

Comparing Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seat Bases: Nuna PIPA Base vs. Nuna PIPA RELX Base

Nuna PIPA Series Base and Nuna PIPA RELX Base

Before diving into the differences between Nuna’s car seat bases, let’s take a quick look at the anatomy of an infant car seat. Most infant car seats come in two parts that work together to ensure both safety and convenience during your baby’s earliest travel days:

The infant car seat (also known as the carrier or “bucket seat”) – This is the portion that holds your baby and easily transfers in and out of the car.
The car seat base – This is installed directly into your vehicle and remains in place between trips.

The beauty of this two-piece system is that the seat simply clicks in and out of the base, making everyday transitions faster and smoother—especially when your baby is snoozing and you don’t want to disrupt a nap.

Additional infant car seat bases are also sold separately, which is a great option for families with multiple vehicles or caregivers. Everyone can be road-ready with a pre-installed base, eliminating the hassle of constant reinstallation.

Now, let’s talk Nuna bases. Nuna currently offers two options: the original PIPA Series Base and the newer, upgraded RELX Base.

Both bases feature Nuna’s rigid LATCH system and a steel-reinforced load leg. The RELX Base ups the ante with the addition of an anti-rebound panel and a 4-position recline, offering a universal vehicle fit and simplifying the installation process even further.

While both bases are designed to offer the best in safety with their rigid LATCH installation, they also allow for secure and easy seat belt installation, providing more flexibility (a big plus for vehicles without LATCH anchors).

The RELX Base is a bit more advanced and user-friendly, and in turn comes with a higher price tag. That said, if the RELX Base isn’t in your budget, rest assured—the original PIPA Series Base still outperforms most bases on the market and delivers excellent safety and function.

Nuna PIPA Series Base Features:

Compatible with all Nuna PIPA series infant car seats (except PIPA Urbn)
True lock™ installation makes set up swift, simple and above all – safe
Installs to car in less than five seconds with two easy and instant steps
Steel stability leg helps minimize forward rotation during impact by up to 90%**
Colored indicators on the stability leg and lower rigid attachments (LATCH) minimize user error
Dual bubble level indicators confirm correct angle
Easy base release buttons make switching between vehicle’s a snap
Stability leg folds under base for storage when not in use
Multi-position base accommodates various car seat angles
Recommended Use: 4 to 32 lbs, and up to 32 in
Dimensions: L 22" x W 12" x H 8.5"
Weight: 14 lbs

Nuna PIPA RELX Base Features:

Compatible with all Nuna PIPA series infant car seats (expect PIPA Urbn)
5 second True lock™ installation makes set up swift, simple and above all – safe
Crumple zone within the stability leg absorbs impact and minimizes force transferred to baby
Colored installation indicators confirm correct connections to the vehicle.
Automatic rigid latch storage
Steel stability leg helps minimize forward rotation during impact
Indicators on stability leg turn green when in proper contact with vehicle floor.
Low profile base for easier loading of infant seat
Belt guides
Extra convenient load leg storage with lock
Steel reinforced true lock™ rigid latch.
Seat belt lock off with separate lap and shoulder belt paths.
Indicators on rigid latch turn green when clicked to vehicle anchor points.
Recommended Use: 4 to 32 lbs, and up to 32 in.
Dimensions: L 23.75" x W 13" x H 12"
Weight: 16.8 lbs

The PIPA Aire, PIPA RX and PIPA Aire RX are all compatible with both bases. Each also comes boxed with one included base.

The RELX Base is included with both the PIPA RX and PIPA Aire RX. The PIPA Aire comes boxed with the original PIPA Series Base.

What Infant Car Seat Base is compatible with the Nuna PIPA Urbn?

Nuna PIPA Urbn Installed with Rigid LATCH

You may have noticed we didn’t include the PIPA Urbn in the previous section. That’s because the PIPA Urbn features a unique, innovative design—it’s a baseless infant car seat. So, to answer the question directly: none. The PIPA Urbn is not compatible with either PIPA Base or any other car seat base.

The PIPA Urbn is engineered for secure, base-free installation. Departing from the traditional two-piece infant car seat setup, the Urbn arrives as a single unit straight out of the box. It includes integrated rigid LATCH connectors built directly into the body of the car seat, allowing for a quick, secure install without the added bulk of a base.

As its name suggests, the PIPA Urbn was designed with city life in mind—perfect for families who rely on public transportation, rideshares, or taxis and don’t regularly travel in their own vehicle.

This installation style is also incredibly convenient for jet-setting families looking for advanced safety in a minimal travel setup. The Urbn doesn’t skimp on protection either: in addition to its rigid LATCH system, the carry handle can be positioned to double as an anti-rebound bar, enhancing crash protection while maintaining Nuna’s high safety standards.

What is the lightest weight Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seat?

After safety, Nuna knows what parents are prioritizing: weight!

Real life? The infant car seat goes everywhere—and keeping that weight to a minimum can make the first year just a little smoother. Babies grow fast, and before you know it, you're carrying a 20-pound baby. Add the weight of the car seat, and you could easily be cradling 30 pounds in the crook of your arm.

The good news: although Nuna car seats are loaded with safety and premium features, they all weigh in significantly lighter than the average infant car seat. However, one model stands out from the rest—and that’s the PIPA Aire, coming in at an astonishing 6 lbs!

Which leads to the inevitable question: how can a 6 lb car seat be safe?
Here’s your reminder: the advanced safety features are built into the base—not the part you’re carrying around with you!

Nuna achieves these impressively low weights with the use of EPP foam, rather than the standard, heavier EPS foam typically used to line car seats. EPP foam is just as energy-absorbing, but significantly lighter. It’s also more flexible, less prone to cracking, doesn’t off-gas like EPS, and even has antibacterial properties.

The PIPA Aire, PIPA Aire RX, and PIPA Urbn all feature EPP foam and top the list of the lightest infant car seats on the market.

Nuna’s design approach is intentional, with a strong focus on minimizing weight. Each added feature brings added ounces. For this reason, none of Nuna’s current infant car seats include a non-rethread harness—a feature many parents have come to expect. Non-rethread harnesses allow parents to raise the headrest and harness height simultaneously with one motion, which sounds convenient. But this mechanism adds weight and, according to research, may not provide as precise of a fit as traditional rethread options.

In reality, you won’t be adjusting the harness every day. You’ll likely only need to do it two to three times over the course of the seat’s use. And with Nuna, rethreading the harness is straightforward and user-friendly.

So don’t skip over the Nuna PIPA lineup in search of a non-rethread seat. Choosing a lighter-weight car seat and skipping the extra bulk is a decision you’ll be thanking yourself for again and again.

Which Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seat Can Be Used The Longest?

Nuna PIPA RX paired with Nuna MIXX Next Stroller

In general, infant car seats are designed to take you through your baby’s first year. All models come with both height and weight limits, and use should be discontinued once your baby reaches either of those limits.

In most cases, babies will outgrow the height limit well before hitting the weight capacity—so it’s important to pay attention to both. Many parents initially assume they can follow the weight guide alone, but height is usually the limiting factor.

While a year of use may feel short-lived, the convenience an infant car seat offers during the newborn and infant stage is unmatched. Infant car seats are the only type compatible with strollers for travel system use, and they allow you to transfer baby in and out of the car without disruption.

Convertible car seats may be suitable from birth, but most parents still prefer to start with an infant car seat due to the added flexibility, even though the lifecycle is shorter. Once your baby outgrows their infant seat, it’s time to switch to a convertible car seat—still rear-facing for as long as possible.

Among Nuna’s lineup, the PIPA RX has the highest combined height and weight capacity. While the difference is slight, it may buy you a few more months of convenience before graduating to a less portable, more permanent seat.

Comparing Safety and Specs: Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats

All Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats come with a one year manufacturer warranty and can be used for 7 years from the manufacture date. Upon unboxing your new PIPA, be sure to register it with Nuna to activate the warranty and stay informed of important model specific updates.

Recommended Use:

Nuna PIPA Aire: 4 to 30 lbs, and 16 to 30 in.
Nuna PIPA RX: 4 to 32 lbs, and 16 to 32 in
Nuna PIPA Aire RX: 4 to 30 lbs, and 16 to 30 in.
Nuna PIPA Urbn: 4 to 22 lbs, and up to 29 in

Safety Features:

Nuna PIPA Aire: Rigid LATCH, Stability leg, EPP foam, FR Free
Nuna PIPA RX: Rigid LATCH, Stability leg, Anti-rebound panel, FR Free
Nuna PIPA Aire RX: Rigid LATCH, Stability leg, Anti-rebound panel, EPP Foam, FR Free
Nuna PIPA Urbn: Rigid Latch, Anit-rebound handlebar, EPP foam, FR Free

Weight:

Nuna PIPA Aire: 6 lbs (without canopy and inserts - canopy and inserts approx. 1.8 lb)
Nuna PIPA RX: 7.6 lbs (without canopy and inserts - canopy and insert approx. 1 lb)
Nuna PIPA Aire RX: 6.2 lbs (without canopy and inserts - canopy and inserts approx. 2.2 lb)
Nuna PIPA Urbn: 7 lbs without canopy and inserts (canopy and insert approx. 2 lb)

What's Included:

Nuna PIPA Aire: Car Seat, PIPA Series Base, Infant Insert, Harness Pads, Latch Guides
Nuna PIPA RX: Car Seat, RELX Base, Infant Insert, Harness Pads, Latch Guides
Nuna PIPA Aire RX: Car Seat, RELX Base, Infant Insert, Additional GOTS organic cotton infant insert, Harness Pads, Latch Guides
Nuna PIPA Urbn: Car Seat, Infant Insert, Harness Pads, Latch Guides

Nuna PIPA Aire Features:

The PIPA aire is both ultra-portable and seriously protective
PIPA aire is the lightest in the PIPA series infant car seat lineup
One-handed vehicle and stroller release for easy in an outs
Fabrics and inserts are conveniently machine washable
Belt path for vehicle belt installation
FAA certified for aircraft use with or without a base
Connects with all Nuna strollers to create a stylish travel system*
Features Aeroflex™ foam that is cleverly lightweight, resilient, and minimizes force transferred to baby
Steel-reinforced True lock™ base installation makes set up swift, simple, and safe
Side Impact Protection (SIP) for ultimate baby safe keeping
The deep seat design creates a cocoon-like space, ensuring a better fit and comfortable car seat for your baby.
5-point harness keeps baby’s travels secure
Tailor tech™ memory foam headrest provides a comfortable custom fit
Removable infant head and body inserts nestle baby in comfort and security
UPF 50+ canopy with flip-out eyeshade protects from sun exposure
The iconic Sky drape™ provides baby with ultimate privacy for quiet moments
Luxe leatherette carry handle for more secure gripping
Exposed aerospace aluminum handle adds a contemporary aesthetic and enhances the seat's intuitive functionality
Soft yet durable micro-knit fabric for refined style and casual warmth
From fabric to foam and beyond each element is smartly sourced to be both flame resistant and contain no added fire-retardant chemicals making it safer for baby

Why Choose the Nuna PIPA Aire?

The PIPA Aire is the most budget-friendly option in the lineup, offering families a premium, safe car seat at a more accessible price point. It also happens to be the lightest weight model in the entire Nuna PIPA Series.

Pro tip: For the perfect combination of lightweight portability and advanced safety, purchase the PIPA Aire and pair it with the RELX base (sold separately). You can use the included original PIPA Base in a secondary vehicle and install the RELX base in baby’s primary ride.

Purchase a Nuna PIPA Aire if:

You want the lightest weight infant car seat
You are seeking the most budget-friendly option

Nuna PIPA RX Features:

From fabric to foam and beyond, each element is smartly sourced to be both flame resistant and contain no added fire retardant chemicals
Side impact protection for ultimate baby safe keeping
Comfy organic jersey insert is removable for growing babies
Integrated harness holders help when buckling baby in
Luxe leatherette accented carry handle. Tote elegantly with ease
Five point harness keeps little ones in place
Two-piece removable infant insert + head support. Customize to their individual shape and get a perfect fit right from birth
Mesh peek-a-boo window in canopy
Heavy duty shell is super resilient yet lightweight
Lightweight carry handle is ergonomically designed to tote with ease
FAA certified for aircraft use
True lock™ installation makes set up swift, simple and above all – safe
5 second install
Crumple zone within the stability leg absorbs impact and minimizes force transferred to baby
Colored installation indicators confirm correct connections to the vehicle
Bubble free recline angle guides clearly confirm the perfect riding angle
Low profile base for easier loading of infant seat
Open belt path for easier install
Belt guides
Anti rebound panel
Automatic rigid latch storage
Extra convenient stability leg storage with lock
Steel reinforced true lock™ rigid latch
Lock off with easy access belt path
Indicators on rigid latch turn green when clicked to vehicle anchor points
Indicators on stability leg turn green when in proper contact with vehicle floor
GREENGUARD Gold Certified: Products that have achieved GREENGUARD Gold Certification are scientifically proven to meet some of the world's most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, and certified to not contribute to indoor air pollution or chemical exposure

Why Choose the Nuna PIPA RX?

The PIPA RX delivers advanced safety at a comparatively more budget friendly price point. With the RELX base included and a slightly higher height and weight capacity, the PIPA RX offers extended use and reliable protection—making it the best overall value in the series.

Purchase a Nuna PIPA RX if:

You prioritize advanced safety
You value longevity

Nuna PIPA Aire RX Features:

FAA certified for aircraft use with or without a base
Connects with all Nuna strollers to create a stylish travel system*
5-second steel-reinforced True lock™ installation makes set up swift, simple, and safe**
Side Impact Protection (SIP) for ultimate baby safekeeping
Open belt path with lock off secures lap and shoulder belt
Features Aeroflex™ foam that is cleverly lightweight, resilient, and minimizes force transferred to baby
The deep seat design creates a cocoon-like space, ensuring a better fit and comfortable car seat for your baby.
3-position height-adjustable headrest and 5-point harness keeps little ones in place
Removable infant head and body inserts nestle baby in comfort and security
Tailor tech™ memory foam seat panel and headrest provides a comfortable custom fit
UPF 50+ canopy with 2 positions and a flip-out eyeshade protects from sun exposure
The iconic Sky drape™ provides baby with ultimate privacy for quiet moments
Soft yet durable micro-knit fabric for refined style and casual warmth
Super-resilient top-of-the-line plastics for a heavy-duty secure shell
Exposed aerospace aluminum handle adds a contemporary aesthetic and enhances the seat's intuitive functionality
Luxe leatherette carry handle for more secure gripping
From fabric to foam and beyond each element is smartly sourced to be both flame-resistant and contain no added fire-retardant chemicals making it safer for baby
Infant head and body inserts are made of environmentally friendly Merino wool and TENCEL™*** lyocell fiber blend that is soft, naturally controls moisture, and is environmentally friendly
GREENGUARD Gold Certified to meet some of the world's most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, and certified to not contribute to indoor air pollution or chemical exposure
Additional GOTS organic cotton infant insert and harness cover set

Why Choose the Nuna PIPA Aire RX?

The PIPA Aire RX is the most premium option in the lineup, combining lightweight design with the inclusion of the RELX base, advanced safety, and added comfort and convenience features. It even comes with an extra infant insert—so you’re always prepared.

If you're shopping without a strict budget, there’s no reason to shy away from the PIPA Aire RX. It delivers the best in safety with a luxury experience right from day one.

Purchase a Nuna PIPA Aire RX if:

You prioritize advanced safety
You’re seeking a lightweight option
You value luxury and premium features

Nuna PIPA Urbn Features:

Auto-reclining foot that aids in proper installations in vehicles
European belt path for vehicle belt installations
Aeroflex™ foam that is cleverly lightweight, resilient, and minimizes force transferred to baby by absorbing and diffusing energy
Side Impact Protection (SIP) for ultimate baby safe keeping
5-point harness keeps travels secure
Sky drape™ pulls down smoothly and attaches quietly with magnets
Full-coverage UPF 50+ canopy is extendable and features a flip-out eyeshade and XL peek-a-boo window
From fabric to foam and beyond, each element is smartly sourced to be both flame resistant and contain no added fire-retardant chemicals
Integrated magnetic buckle holders help keep straps out of the way when buckling baby in
Head support includes a 2-layer soft surround to accommodate smaller babies
Infant head support and body inserts feature environmentally friendly Merino wool and TENCEL™ *** branded lyocell fiber blend that is soft, naturally controls moisture, and is environmentally friendly
Machine washable seat fabrics and inserts
Luxe leatherette carry handle for stylish journeys
GREENGUARD Gold Certified—products that have achieved GREENGUARD certification are scientifically proven to meet some of the world's most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, and certified to not contribute to indoor air pollution or chemical exposure
FAA certified for aircraft use
All installation types are baseless—no base needed
Not compatible with PIPA™ series base or RELX™ base
Set of included anchor guides make it easy to locate and install on the lower anchor bars in vehicle

Why Choose the Nuna PIPA Urbn?

If you frequently use public transportation or have air-travel plans within the first year, the PIPA Urbn is your perfect match. It delivers top-tier safety and convenience in a lightweight, innovative, base-free design.

Start smart by choosing the PIPA Urbn, then explore Nuna’s stroller lineup to find the best companion and select the perfect travel system for your lifestyle.

Purchase a Nuna PIPA Urbn if:

You live in a city or use public transportation often
You have air travel plans within the first year
You’re seeking a lightweight option
You value convenience without sacrificing safety

Accessories For Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats?

Nuna offers accessories sold separately including:

Rain Cover
Travel Bag (comes with Nuna's Travelsafe warranty)
Extra Infant Insert

What strollers are compatible with Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats?

Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats offer excellent flexibility when it comes to stroller compatibility.

For a cohesive, on-brand travel system, we recommend exploring Nuna strollers. All Nuna strollers are compatible with all Nuna PIPA infant car seats right out of the box—either through direct attachment or by using the included infant car seat adapters.

If you’ve got your eye on a stroller from another brand, good news—Nuna PIPA car seats feature a universal connection point and can be paired with any stroller that accepts Maxi-Cosi-style adapters.

With the use of these adapters, your travel system options with a Nuna PIPA infant car seat are nearly endless.

Best Travel Strollers Compatible With Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats: Overhead Bin Approved

*For more on Travel Strollers check out: Best Travel Strollers

Best Lightweight Strollers Compatible With Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats: Portable Performance!

Single:

*For more on Lightweight Mid-Size Strollers check out: Best Mid-Size Strollers

Double:

Best Full Size Strollers Compatible With Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats: Rugged Refinement

Best Convertible Strollers Compatible With Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats: Future Proof

*For more on Convertible Strollers check out Best Convertible Strollers

Best Jogging Strollers Compatible With Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats: Built For Adventure

Single:

Double:

*For more on Jogging Strollers check out: Best Jogging Strollers

Best Wagons Compatible With Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats: Exploration Mobility

*For more on Wagons check out: Best Wagons

Discontinued Models: What To Know Before You Buy Or Reuse

If you’re thinking about reusing a Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seat or exploring secondhand options, you might be wondering how discontinued models compare to current offerings. The good news? Nuna has consistently led the way in infant car seat safety, and even models no longer in production retain core safety features that still surpass many other infant car seats sold in the U.S. today.

Like all baby gear brands, Nuna eventually phases out older models to introduce improved versions. But that doesn’t mean discontinued seats are obsolete. That said, if you’re considering using a passed-down model or purchasing one pre-owned, a few important safety checks are essential.

Start with the expiration date. All Nuna PIPA car seats are designed to be used for up to 7 years from the date of manufacture. After that, they should be responsibly discarded. This expiration isn’t just a suggestion—it’s crucial. Over time, the energy-absorbing foam can degrade, and safety standards may evolve beyond what older models were built to meet.

Think twice before buying secondhand. While it may seem like a budget-friendly solution, secondhand car seats come with risks. You can’t be certain of their history—if the seat was ever in a crash, it may no longer be structurally sound. They also lack warranty coverage and can’t be registered under a new owner, which means you’ll miss out on recall alerts and critical product updates.

If you must go secondhand, inspect carefully. Check under the fabric for cracks in the foam, wear or fraying on the harness and straps, and any debris that could affect the buckle’s performance. Always test both seatbelt and LATCH installations to confirm the seat installs securely. And of course, double-check the date of manufacture and make sure it hasn’t expired.

Discontinued Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats:

Nuna PIPA: Original Nuna PIPA: Introduced advanced safety features to US infant car seats, and European belt path for secure baseless installation.

Nuna PIPA Lite: Original lightweight infant car seat, with introduction of EPP foam. Can only be used with its base.

Nuna PIPA Lite LX: Second generation lightweight car seat with inclusion of SkyDrape. Can only be used with its base.

Nuna PIPA Lite R: Third generation lightweight car seat, Nuna PIPA Lite packaged with upgraded RELX Base.

Nuna PIPA Lite RX: Fourth generation lightweight infant car seat, with inclusion of RELX Base, no-rethread harness and European Belt Path.

Why should you trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions?

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding the Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats, you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!

We would also love to see you in store! Feel free to visit any of our store locations in New York, New Jersey, or Miami if you prefer personalized assistance from one of our experts. We're here to ensure you find the perfect gear for your baby with confidence and ease.