Congratulations!

Your car seat journey is just beginning, and the first step for most parents is choosing an infant car seat. These seats are designed to keep your baby safe from day one through the first year-ish (depending on your little one’s growth). We love infant car seats because they are easy to install, not as complex, and portable! 

One of the best features of an infant car seat is that it can be carried or easily clicked into a compatible stroller. This makes quick errands a breeze and transitions from car to stroller (and back again) seamless. You can buckle baby in from the comfort of your home, then simply click the seat into its base in the car. This is incredibly useful on hot summer days or cold, blistery winter days.

Infant car seats come with a base that stays installed in your vehicle. While most infant car seats include a base, there are a few models that don't use one at all. Many families choose to purchase a second base for a second car, or for a grandparent or caregiver’s vehicle, for added convenience.

In this blog post, we’ll share our top infant car seat picks (in alphabetical order), along with everything you need to know to choose the best one for your baby.

Our Top Picks

• Clek Liing
• Cybex Cloud T
• Doona 
• Nuna PIPA Aire RX
• Nuna PIPA RX
• Römer Juni 
• UPPAbaby Aria

Best for Compact Cars and Three-Across Seating: Clek Liing

The Clek Liing is one of the narrowest infant car seats on the market at just 16.9 inches wide, making it an excellent choice for families needing to fit three across in many vehicles.

What truly sets the Liing apart is its advanced safety engineering. It meets the latest FMVSS 213 standards for side and frontal impact protection and features a metal energy-absorbing adjustable load leg that increases stability and reduces crash forces by up to 40%. The rigid LATCH system ensures effortless, secure installation, minimizing errors. After installation, you can adjust through seven recline positions to maintain a safe 40–45 degree angle for newborns’ open airways. Plus, the newborn body support system offers proper head support and a snug fit, including for premature infants!

Another standout is Clek’s commitment to transparency: they are one of the few companies that openly release their crash test data for parents to review, which we truly appreciate! A+

Proudly made in Canada, the Liing is also a healthy choice for families—free of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants, with flame-retardant-free fabric options. Its European belt path allows quick, secure installation without the base, ideal for travel or ride shares. The zip-off cover makes cleaning easy. Combining safety, comfort, and space-saving design, the Clek Liing is a smart pick for families who want it all.

Heads-Up: Carrying comfort may vary.

At around 9 lbs, the Clek Liing isn’t the lightest seat, and some parents find it a bit awkward to carry due to the handle shape and how it rests against the body, especially when adjusting the handle past the canopy. That said, taller caregivers often find it more comfortable to carry.

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 9 lbs
  
• Base weight: 17 lbs
• Dimensions: 26.8" H x 27.7" D x 16.9" W
• Baby height limit: 32"
• Baby weight limit: 4-30 lbs
  
• Type of harness: Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): rigid LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: Yes
• Expiration: 9 years 
• Warranty: 1 year
  

Best for Advanced Safety Tech: Cybex Cloud T

The Cybex Cloud T is where cutting-edge safety meets smart convenience. Built with advanced technology, it features SensorSafe™, a Bluetooth-enabled chest clip that sends real-time alerts to your phone—like if your baby unbuckles, is left behind, or if the back seat becomes too hot or cold. Combined with rigorous crash protection, including a load leg base, anti-rebound panel, and linear side-impact protection, the Cloud T offers peace of mind at every turn.

What truly sets the Cloud T apart is its lie-flat Comfort Mode, which allows the seat to recline nearly fully when used on a compatible stroller. This ergonomic position is ideal for longer outings, offering a more natural, relaxed posture for your baby while out and about. With 12 headrest positions, in-shell ventilation, and a UPF 50+ XXL sun canopy, your little one stays comfortable wherever the day takes you.

Thoughtful extras like the easy-in buckle pad, rigid LATCH install, European belt path, and fire-retardant-free fabrics make the Cloud T as practical as it is advanced. It’s also FAA-approved for aircraft use, machine-washable, and compatible with all Cybex strollers for a seamless travel system from car to sidewalk.

Heads-Up: Premium safety features and tech add a little extra weight.

The Cybex Cloud T is loaded with advanced safety innovations—like a base with a load leg, linear side-impact protection, and a unique lie-flat recline when used with a stroller. All that cutting-edge engineering does make it heavier than most infant car seats, so it may not be the most convenient for quick carry-in/carry-out use. But for parents prioritizing top-tier safety and functionality, it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 12 lbs
  
• Base weight: 17.1 lbs
• Dimensions: 26.5-30" L x 17.6" W x 15.8-23" H
• Baby height limit: 32"
• Baby weight limit: 4-30 lbs
  
• Type of harness: No Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): Rigid LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: Yes
• Expiration: 6 years 
• Warranty: 2 years

Most Innovative and Travel-Friendly: Doona

If Optimus Prime designed baby gear, it’d probably look a lot like the Doona. This clever all-in-one car seat and stroller transforms in seconds—no adapters, no extra parts, no fuss. Just pop the wheels down and go. It’s the ultimate travel solution for parents who want simplicity, speed, and style all in one compact package.

Perfect for quick errands, airport travel, or urban living, the Doona lets you move from car to sidewalk without ever having to wake your baby or haul extra gear. It’s FAA-approved, fits in most airplane overhead bins (depending on the airline), and installs easily with or without the base thanks to its European belt path.

While it’s not intended to replace a full-size stroller, the Doona shines in those everyday moments where convenience is key. With safety features like anti-rebound protection, a 5-point harness, and removable infant inserts for a snug fit from day one, it’s more than just a cool trick—it’s a thoughtfully engineered option that simplifies life with a baby.

Heads-Up: The Doona can’t be your only stroller—and it’s heavier than it looks.

The Doona is incredibly convenient for short trips and travel, but it’s still a car seat at heart. Pediatricians recommend limiting time in a car seat to no more than 2 hours at a time, and that applies even when using the Doona in stroller mode. Since baby remains in a semi-reclined position, it’s not ideal for longer outings.

For extended use, you'll need a separate stroller that offers a lie-flat seat or bassinet, giving your baby the space to stretch and move more freely. Most babies outgrow the Doona by around 12 months, so a full-size stroller will still be necessary as your child grows.

Also worth noting: the Doona weighs 17 pounds without your baby in it—on delivery day, you're likely lifting 23 to 25 pounds. It’s compact and convenient, but getting it in and out of your car can feel like a workout. Keep that in mind when deciding if it’s the right fit for your everyday routine

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 17 lbs
  
• Base weight: 10.4 lbs
• Dimensions: Folded = 17.4" x 26" x 22.4" / Unfolded = 17.4" x 32.3" x 39"
• Baby height limit: 32"
• Baby weight limit: 4-35 lbs
  
• Type of harness: No Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: No
• Expiration: 6 years 
• Warranty: 2 years

Best Lightweight and Versatile Infant Car Seat: Nuna PIPA Aire RX

If you're looking for a car seat that makes life easier without compromising on style or safety, the Nuna PIPA Aire RX is a standout. Weighing just over 7 pounds, it is one of the lightest infant car seats available. This makes everyday use, especially those quick in-and-out errands, much more manageable for parents of newborns and young infants.

Installation is simple and reliable with the included RELX base, which features rigid LATCH connectors that not only add an advanced layer of safety but also make installation incredibly quick—often in just one click. The base also includes a load leg, anti-rebound panel, and bubble level indicators, ensuring a secure and stable setup every time. Whether you are using the LATCH or seatbelt, the system helps minimize error and maximize peace of mind.

The PIPA Aire RX is also impressively versatile. It connects easily to Nuna strollers and so  many others (using adapters), giving you more flexibility as your needs change. With fire-retardant-free fabrics, built-in ventilation, and a UPF 50+ canopy for sun protection, the Aire RX combines comfort, safety, and adaptability in one sleek and lightweight package!

Heads‑Up: Nuna weighs their car seats without the canopy and inserts.

When comparing car seat weights, it’s important to know that Nuna lists the weight of their infant car seats without the canopy or infant inserts—both of which are essential for everyday use (especially during the newborn stage).

That means the listed weight may seem lighter than it actually feels when fully assembled. If you're comparing it to other seats that include those components in their total weight, the difference might not be quite as big as it looks on paper.

Still, even with everything attached, Nuna seats remain among the lighter premium options on the market. Just something to keep in mind when weight is a key factor in your decision!

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 6.2 lbs ( canopy and inserts approx. 2.2 lb)
  
• Base weight: 16.8 lbs
• Dimensions: 23" H x 27.25" L x 17.5" W
• Baby height limit: 30"
• Baby weight limit: 4-30 lbs
  
• Type of harness: No Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): Rigid LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: Yes
• Expiration: 7 years 
• Warranty: 1 year

Best for Hassle-Free Installation: Nuna PIPA RX

The Nuna PIPA RX is designed for parents who want safety and simplicity in one polished package. What sets it apart is just how easy it is to install. It comes with the Nuna RELX base, the same one used with the PIPA Aire RX, featuring rigid LATCH connectors for an ultra-secure and lightning-fast install. The load leg, anti-rebound panel, and bubble level indicators help ensure a proper fit every time, whether you're using LATCH or a seatbelt.

With the European belt path, you can also install the PIPA RX safely without the base—perfect for city life, cabs, or travel. This flexibility, combined with its no-rethread harness, removable infant insert, and generous canopy with ventilation and UPF 50+ protection, makes the PIPA RX both user-friendly and baby-friendly.

It’s also compatible with all Nuna strollers and many others using adapters, so you can build a custom travel system that works for your lifestyle. The PIPA RX balances thoughtful design with advanced safety, giving you confidence every time you buckle in your baby.

Heads-Up: A re-thread harness isn’t as inconvenient as it sounds.

While re-thread harnesses are often seen as a drawback, they’re not as frustrating as they’re sometimes made out to be. You’ll only need to adjust the harness height TWICE throughout the time using this seat, and it typically takes just a minute to do. It shouldn't be a dealbreaker. 

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 7.6 lbs ( canopy and inserts approx. 1 lb)
  
• Base weight: 16.8 lbs
• Dimensions: 23" H x 25.2" L x 17.5" W 
• Baby height limit: 32"
• Baby weight limit: 4-32 lbs
  
• Type of harness: No Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): Rigid LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: Yes
• Expiration: 7 years 
• Warranty: 1 year

Best European-Style Safety and Design: Römer Juni

The Römer Juni brings timeless European design and top-tier safety together in one beautifully crafted infant car seat. With rich woven textures, an elegant mahogany leatherette carry handle, and a soft Seawool™ cover made from recycled materials, the Juni offers a level of sophistication rarely seen in baby gear. Inspired by classic European aesthetics and built with practical modern features, this seat offers both luxury and peace of mind.

Where the Juni truly shines is in its premium safety system. It is the only infant car seat to combine five advanced safety features: a load leg, anti-rebound bar, steel support bar, rigid LATCH, and SecureLoc™ automatic seat belt tensioning. This multi-angle protection is designed to minimize movement in the event of a crash and provide unmatched stability. The included Versa base makes installation simple and secure, while the European belt path allows for easy seat-only installation in taxis, rideshares, or travel situations.

Despite its robust safety features, the Juni remains lightweight and slim, making it easy to carry and a space-saver in tighter back seats. A UPF 50+ canopy with breathable mesh panels and the included SereneScreen™ create a quiet, shaded space for your baby to rest, while magnetic harness holders and machine-washable fabrics add everyday convenience. Whether you're navigating city streets or boarding a plane, the Römer Juni delivers refined safety and comfort, wrapped in a stylish, eco-conscious package

Heads Up: While the Römer Juni is travel system–ready, its stroller compatibility isn’t as universal as you might expect.

The Juni only works with select models, even within the same brand. For example, it pairs with the Nuna DEMI, but not with other popular models like the MIXX or TRVL. If stroller compatibility is high on your list, be sure to double-check the compatibility chart before deciding.

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 9.3 lbs
  
• Base weight: 11.6 lbs
• Dimensions: 28.1" L x 16.9" W x 24.1" H
• Baby height limit: 32"
• Baby weight limit: 4-30 lbs
  
• Type of harness: Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): Rigid LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: Yes
• Expiration: 6 years
• Warranty: 2 years

Lightest Infant Car Seat: UPPAbaby Aria

Meet the UPPAbaby Aria, the lightest infant car seat on the market, weighing in at just under 6 pounds! Designed for effortless portability, the Aria’s ergonomic aluminum carry handle adds both stability and comfort when on the go. Despite its featherlight build, it’s packed with premium safety features, including enhanced side impact protection, a 5th anti-rebound handle position, and a base with a load leg and anti-rebound panel for added security in the event of a crash. Whether you’re installing with or without the base, the SmartSecure® System and European belt routing make correct installation fast and foolproof.

The Aria grows with your baby from day one, thanks to a two-piece infant insert that supports even the smallest preemies and an infinite-adjust headrest for a custom fit as your baby grows. Comfort is top of mind, too with back panel ventilation, a no-rethread harness, and an extra-large canopy offering UPF 25+ protection with a pop-out sunshade and mesh ventilation panel to keep your little one cool and covered. The Aria is FAA-certified for air travel, making it a smart, versatile choice for families on the move.

Compatible with UPPAbaby Vista and Cruz strollers (with adapters available for Minu and Ridge), the Aria is designed to work seamlessly with your travel system. It’s GREENGUARD® Gold Certified, fire-retardant-free, and features machine-washable DualTech™ fabrics, so you can feel confident your baby is safe, comfortable, and riding in style. The 17-inch wide base even allows for three-across installation, making the Aria as practical as it is innovative!

Heads-Up: The slim design may feel snug for bigger babies.

The Aria's ultra-lightweight build comes with a narrower interior, which may not offer as much room for broader or chunkier babies, especially as they approach the upper end of the height and weight limits. While it’s perfect for newborns and smaller infants, families with larger babies may find it a bit tight over time.

Noteworthy Specs:

• Carrier weight: 6 lbs
  
• Base weight: 12.6 lbs
• Dimensions: 24.5” L x 17” W x 18.5” H
• Baby height limit: 30"
  
• Baby weight limit: 4-30 lbs
  
• Type of harness: No Rethread
  
• FAA Approved: Yes
• European seat belt routing option: Yes
• Installation method(s): LATCH with base / seat belt with base / European belt path with carrier only
• Load Leg: Yes
• Expiration: 7 years
• Warranty: 3 years

All You Need to Know About Infant Car Seats

Now that we’ve covered some standout options, let’s get into the details that can help you decide which one actually fits your life, and your back seat. If this is your first baby, or you just need a refresher, here’s a breakdown of what they are, how they work, and what to consider before you buy!

How to Choose a Safe Infant Car Seat

Every car seat sold in the U.S. must meet the same federal safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That means all seats are safe when used correctly—but not every seat will be the right fit for your child, your vehicle, or your lifestyle.

Some models come with extra safety technology or high-end materials, but the reality is this: the safest car seat is the one that fits your baby properly, installs securely in your vehicle, and can be used correctly every single time. Ease of use is a big deal because it reduces the chance of installation or harnessing errors.

Here’s how to find a car seat that checks all the right boxes:

It Fits Your Child

A safe car seat should match your baby’s current height, weight, and stage of development. Always check the seat’s minimum and maximum size guidelines before purchasing, especially if you think your baby may be born premature or small. 

Not all infant car seats are designed to safely fit very small newborns. It’s important that the seat has a low enough weight minimum and that the harness can adjust to a snug, secure fit at a lower shoulder height. Without proper fit, even the safest car seat won’t offer the protection your baby needs

It Fits Your Vehicle

While most infant car seats fit well in a wide range of vehicles, that doesn’t mean it’s always a perfect puzzle. Things get more complicated when you factor in the height of front-seat passengers, the number of riders in the back, and whether you'll need to install multiple car seats.

Even a compact infant seat can impact legroom for the driver or passenger, depending on how far back the seat needs to go. And if you're planning for more than one car seat or hoping to seat three across, width and positioning matter a lot more. Plus, older siblings’ seats may need to be installed in specific spots due to factors like tether anchor locations or making school drop-off and pickup easier.

Before you commit, take a look at the car seat’s measurements and think through how it will actually fit in your daily setup. Ask yourself:

• Will front passengers still have enough legroom with the seat installed behind them?

• Can I fit additional passengers or other car seats in the back seat?

• Does the car seat offer recline adjustments to better match the slope of my vehicle’s seat?

It’s always a good idea to test install if possible, or get expert help from a CPST (Child Passenger Safety Technician) to make sure the fit is both secure and realistic for your everyday needs!

It’s Easy to Use—Every Time

The safest car seat is one you can use correctly every single time, without stress or guesswork. Features like rigid LATCH, no-rethread harnesses, and recline adjusters on the base can make daily life easier and help ensure a secure installation.

Also consider who else might be using the seat. If grandparents, caregivers, or babysitters will be buckling your child in, intuitive features become even more important. A seat that is simple to use gives everyone more confidence and helps prevent errors during busy or stressful moment.

Must-Have Safety Features in an Infant Car Seat

At Bambi Baby, we know that some safety features go beyond the basics—they provide real peace of mind and added protection. These advanced features are part of why many higher-end car seats come with a bigger price tag than what you’ll find at big box stores. In our opinion, they’re well worth the investment. Here are a few that can make a meaningful difference in both everyday use and during a crash:

Rigid LATCH

Unlike flexible straps, rigid LATCH connectors click directly into your vehicle’s anchors for a faster, easier, and more secure installation. They also help reduce movement during a collision for added stability.

Load Leg

A metal support leg that extends from the base to the vehicle floor, the load leg helps absorb crash energy and reduce rotation. It can decrease the force of impact on your baby by up to 30 to 40 percent. Anti-Rebound Panel or Handle

This feature limits the movement of the car seat during a rear or frontal collision by preventing it from rebounding toward the back seat. It adds another layer of protection by stabilizing the seat after impact.

European Belt Path

Planning to travel or take rideshares often? A European belt path allows for a secure installation without the base by threading the vehicle seatbelt around both the front and back of the car seat. It offers more stability than the standard American belt path and is perfect for families on the go.

Linear Side-Impact Protection (LSP)

Linear Side-Impact Protection is designed to absorb the force of a side-impact crash in stages. It works alongside the car seat’s energy-absorbing shell to reduce the impact on your child. In the event of a collision, the LSP system helps absorb and redirect crash forces away from your child’s body, guiding their head and upper torso into a safer position.

Steel or Metal Reinforced Base

Some premium seats use steel or heavy-duty metal in the base or frame for added strength and impact protection. Steel or metal reinforced bases provide structural integrity, stability, and energy absorption during a crash, minimizing the risk of injury.

Infant Car Seat Comfort & Convenience Features

Once safety is covered, it’s time to focus on what really impacts your day-to-day life. A car seat that’s comfortable for your baby and easy for you to use can make a big difference—especially during those bleary-eyed mornings or rushed errands. Is the installation simple? Can you buckle your baby in without battling twisted straps? These little things add up, especially when you're juggling a diaper bag, coffee, and a squirmy newborn.

• Quick, foolproof installation. Many infant car seats now feature rigid LATCH connectors that snap into your vehicle’s anchors in just seconds—no tugging, tightening, or guesswork. A secure install can be done in one click, helping reduce the chances of user error and saving you time (and frustration) every time you move the seat.
• No-rethread harness. While not essential on an infant seat (since you’ll only adjust the straps a max of twice), it’s still a nice perk. A no-rethread harness allows you to raise or lower the shoulder straps by moving the headrest, without having to undo and rethread the harness manually.
• Buckle holders. Some seats include handy pockets or loops on the cover that hold the buckle out of the way while loading your baby. That means no digging under your baby’s back to find it, and it helps prevent the straps from heating up in the sun or getting twisted.

• Machine-washable fabrics. Whether it’s a diaper blowout or a spilled bottle, messes are inevitable. A car seat cover that’s easy to remove and throw in the wash will save you a lot of stress, especially in those early, messy months.
• Breathable materials and canopies. Infant car seats with ventilated canopies and breathable, flame-retardant-free fabrics help regulate your baby’s temperature. That means more comfort on warm days, and less worry for you about overheating during long rides or walks

Infant Car Seat Installation and Ease of Use

According to the NHTSA, nearly half (46%) of car seats are installed incorrectly! A car seat can have every advanced safety feature invented, but if it's difficult to install, and installed incorrectly due to its difficulty, those features won't matter. The easier a seat is to install and adjust, the more likely it is to be used safely every time.

We at Bambi Baby cannot stress enough the importance of reading your car seat manual cover to cover a few times. And no, installing the car seat shouldn't be "Dad's job" or "Mom's job" - anyone who is going to be driving the baby needs to know how to install the seat properly and how to buckle the baby safely. Because adjustments will need to be made as the baby grows, and guarantee you'll have to remove the car seat for one thing or the other. Knowledge is power, and can save your child's life.

Here are a few different ways to install an infant car seat, depending on your vehicle and whether or not you're using the base. Some methods are quicker and easier, while others may take a little more effort, but ALL are equally safe when done correctly. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

• Rigid LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children): Rigid LATCH refers to  the built-in steel connectors found on some infant car seat bases. These connectors click directly into your vehicle’s LATCH system, which is a set of hooks located between the seat cushions. This method is simple and secure. You don’t have to pull or tighten anything—just click the connectors in and check for a snug fit. If your base includes rigid LATCH, it’s a great option to use since it offers both convenience and added safety.
• Flexible LATCH: Flexible LATCH works similarly to rigid LATCH but uses webbing straps and plastic or metal hooks instead of steel arms. These straps need to be pulled tight to secure the base. It may take a bit more effort, but it’s still a safe and widely used installation method.
• Seat Belt Installation with Base: If your vehicle doesn’t have lower anchors or if you're using a seating position that doesn’t allow LATCH, you can install the base using the seat belt. Each base will have clear instructions showing how to route the belt. This method usually takes a little more work to tighten and lock the seat belt properly. If your base offers rigid LATCH, it’s worth using that when possible since it’s a premium safety feature you’re paying for.
• European Belt Path Without Base: If you're installing the car seat without the base (perfect for traveling or ride shares), some models offer a European belt routing option. This setup routes the shoulder portion of the seat belt around the back of the car seat shell, adding extra stability. In a crash, this helps reduce the amount of forward movement, much like how a load leg works on certain car seat bases. While it’s not a full replacement for a load leg, European routing offers a noticeable improvement in stability compared to a standard seat belt install. Not all infant car seats support this method, so check your manual to see if it's available.

• Standard Seat Belt Installation Without Base: When European routing isn’t an option or you’re in a hurry, you can use the standard seat belt method. This involves running the lap belt (and sometimes the shoulder belt) through the guides on the car seat. Make sure the seat is level and that the belt is locked tightly. While it may not feel as solid as using a base, it’s completely safe when installed correctly.

When Do You Switch from an Infant Car Seat to a Convertible Car Seat?

You can keep using your infant car seat until your child hits either your car seat's height or weight limit—whichever comes first. And yes, it's an either-or situation: once they’ve outgrown one, it’s time to move on. 

Most kids outgrow the height limit before they hit the weight max. Even though a lot of infant seats are rated up to 32 pounds, most babies size out by height well before they get close to that number. Plus you have to pay attention to their head too. Once your baby's head is less than an inch from the top of the car seat shell, it’s time to switch to a convertible - even if they're under the overall height and weight limit.

Convertible car seats allow your child to stay rear-facing longer, which is the safest position. Many support rear-facing up to 40 to 50 pounds, making them a great next step.

That said, you can also switch earlier if your baby seems ready for more space or if you're ready to move on from the convenience of the bucket-style carrier.

Pro Tip: Infant car seats are the most portable option for travel and quick errands—enjoy the ease while your baby still fits!

Read more about Best Convertible Car Seats >>> here!

Not Sure What Infant Car Seat to Choose? Our CPSTs Are Here to Help.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? You're not alone. That’s why we have certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) on staff to guide you through the process. Our team can help you find the best car seat for your child, your car, and your lifestyle—no guesswork required.

Need help with installation? We've got you covered there, too. If you purchase your seat from us, a CPST will install it for you, so you can drive away with total peace of mind. And if you're unsure what fits best, we can even help you test seats in your vehicle before you buy—especially helpful for smaller cars, growing families, or unique setups.

FAQs About Infant Car Seats

What is the safest infant car seat?

All infant car seats sold in the U.S. must meet the same federal safety standards set by the NHTSA. That means every seat is safe when used correctly. The safest car seat is the one that:

• Fits your child weight and height

• Installs securely in your vehicle

• Is easy for you (and others) to use properly every time

Some car seats offer extra safety features like load legs, rigid LATCH, or anti-rebound panels, but even the most advanced seat won’t be safe if it’s not installed or used properly. Correct use matters more than extra features.

Is it OK to buy a used infant car seat?

It depends, but it’s usually a NO. Car seats have expiration dates (typically 6 to 10 years from manufacture date), and they should never be used after a crash, even a minor one. With a used seat, it’s difficult to verify its history, expiration, whether it’s ever been recalled, or even how its been cleaned (you have to follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions).

If you’re considering a secondhand seat, make sure you can confirm:

• The model number and manufacture date

• That it hasn’t expired or been in an accident

• That all parts, labels, and the instruction manual are intact

Unless you're getting it from a trusted source who can confirm all of the above, it's safest to buy new. Don't put your new baby's life on a stranger's word.

How long can an infant car seat be used?

Most infant car seats can be used until your baby reaches around 30–35 lbs or 30–32 inches in height—whichever comes first (check your car seat's manual!). This typically happens around your baby's first birthday. Their head also has to be contained in the seat, typically at least 1 inch from the top of the shell.

You'll also need to stop using it once it hits its expiration date, which is usually printed on the bottom or side of the seat. Even if your baby still fits by size, you cannot use the seat beyond that expiration. Over time, materials can degrade, and older seats may not meet current safety standards.

What is the safest spot in the car to install an infant car seat?

The center of the back seat is generally considered the safest because it’s farthest from any point of impact in a crash. But the best spot is the one where you can get a secure installation. Not all cars have a middle seat, and not all middle seats are the best spots - for example, if they don't have LATCH and your car seat comes with rigid LATCH, you should use the advanced safety feature your car seat has and move it to an outer seat. 

If the center seat doesn’t have LATCH anchors or you can’t get a tight fit with the seatbelt, either side of the back seat is perfectly safe, as long as the seat is installed correctly. 

Can I use an infant car seat with a stroller?

Yes! Most infant car seats are stroller-compatible, either with a matching stroller from the same brand or with the help of adapters. Many parents choose a travel system—a car seat and stroller that click together—for convenience during errands and travel. But you don't have to choose the same brands. Just make sure your seat is approved for use with your stroller model! Have fun customizing your travel system! 

How long can an infant stay in a car seat on a road trip?

It’s recommended that infants spend no more than 2 hours at a time in their car seat. Just like adults, babies need time to stretch, move around, and get a break from being in one position for too long. Frequent stops also give you a chance to feed them, change their diaper, and make sure they’re happy and comfortable before hitting the road again.

How about in their car seat on a stroller?

Even when clipped into a stroller, your baby is still in a semi-reclined car seat position so the same 2-hour rule applies. Pediatricians recommend limiting time in an infant car seat to two hours at a stretch to support healthy spinal development and breathing.

For longer outings, consider using a stroller seat with a full recline or a bassinet attachment, which allows your baby to lie flat and move more freely.

Do I need the base to use my infant car seat?

No, most infant car seats can be installed without the base using a vehicle seat belt, especially helpful for air travel or ride shares! Look for models with European belt routing, which offers a more secure installation without the base. Always check your car seat manual for proper no-base installation instructions, and practice installing before you go! 

Is a car seat base safer than installing with a seat belt?

Quick answer: No, not necessarily.

Both installation methods are equally safe when done correctly. A seat belt-only installation can be just as secure as using a base, especially if your car seat supports European belt routing, which adds stability.

However, bases are designed to make installation easier, quicker, and more consistent, reducing the chance of user error. For parents who frequently install and remove the car seat, the base takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process.

Bottom line: A base isn’t safer by default, but it often helps parents achieve a safer install with less effort.

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 car seats, you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!