Cheap Infant Car Seats
Car seat experts recommend looking for safety features like a load leg that braces the base and side impact protection and the option of using the seat without having a base (which is great if you're taking taxis). Also, consider the recline options.
High-end features such as adjustable harnesses with no rethreads and easy-to-clean materials may also be worth the extra cost, Dilts says.
1. Evenflo LiteMax 35
Evenflo LiteMax 35 infant car seat is a fantastic choice for parents on the go. The seat is designed for infants weighing from 4 to 35 pounds It is extremely light and easy to carry yet still meets the most recent safety standards and features that protect baby during the busy car journey.
Parents are impressed by the design's lightweight and easy to use. Parents also like that the seat can be put in with or without an base. This makes it an option for many preemies. This is an excellent choice for families who are on an extremely tight budget. The LiteMax is a rear-facing only car seat that comes with top features such as soft harness pads and a canopy that extends. It is also easy to clean as it has a smooth shell as well as few nooks and crannies where gunk could be hidden.
Some people are worried about the longevity and durability of the LiteMax. The plastic construction feels flimsy and may not provide the same level of confidence as a stronger car seat in high-impact scenarios. If longevity and security are your top priorities, it might be worth looking into higher-end alternatives.
The car seat for infants has an insert that is removable and helps keep the baby warm for the first few months. Some parents appreciate the insert, while others think it's heavy and takes too much room in the car. Also, the user manual folds down on the side of the seat shell which isn't easy to reach in the event of a spill.
While the LiteMax is a great inexpensive car seat, it does not come with a handle built-in for carrying. It is crucial to buy a stroller that can be used with this car, such as Mountain Buggy Nano. You can check the compatibility list of this car seat with other strollers on the website of the manufacturer or ask an experienced car seat technician to provide an assessment of the fit.
2. Safety 1st on board 35
The Safety 1st OnBoard is a fantastic, affordable infant car seat option for parents looking to avoid the hassles associated with expensive models. It comes with a variety of inserts for infants and preemies. It also has four harness height positions and the base can be adjusted to accommodate different heights of car seats.
The OnBoard received three stars out of five in our crash tests. This is a great score for a seat that is priced lower. It also scored highly in our tests of user-friendliness which assess the difficultness of installing and using the seat. In particular the buckle system is easy to use, and comes with a clear manual that includes clear illustrations to make adjustments easier to understand. It also has an easy-to-use anchor strap for tethering that runs through the belt's path and makes it easy to connect to vehicles that don't have lower LATCH anchors.
The OnBoard is a budget-friendly option for families but it does have some issues. It does not have an indicator on the base like most rear facing only seats that lets you know that the angle is right, and it can be difficult to install without an appropriate base. The OnBoard's recline indicator, which is located on the seat's carrier and not at the base, can be a hassle for infants who weigh less than 35 pounds. It isn't easy to get the bubble indicators to be in the right zone simultaneously.
On the plus side the OnBoard has one of the lightest carrier options for rear facing seats at a svelte 7.9 pounds. It also comes with a substantial 8 year plus duration and can be used rear facing until the child is 32 inches tall or 35 pounds. It also comes with a handy one-handed release handle that is machine washable and dryer safe.
OnBoard can be easily attached to strollers by using Safety 1st QuickClick. This allows you to make use of it as a travel solution when you're out and out and about. It can also be attached to strollers using the standard LATCH connections.
3. Century Carry On 35
The Century Carry On 35 Infant Car Seat offers convenience and safety with thoughtful features that prioritize your baby's wellbeing. Its user-friendly design makes it easy to install and secure with the included canopy that protects your baby from the elements. In addition, the infant insert provides an ideal fit for infants.
The seat has a level indicator to ensure proper rear-facing installation. This feature eliminates guesswork, minimizes the risk that your child is improperly positioned and ensures maximum safety. The indicator is easy and clear which makes it easy to determine if the seat is installed correctly.
The Century Carry On 35 Infant Car Seat, unlike some competitors, has different harness positions, as well as adjustment slots. This makes it simple to customize your baby's fit. The lever for harness release and buckle adjustment provide added convenience. The carrier also includes harness covers for extra comfort and security.
A LATCH system is another important factor to consider. The Carry On 35 does have the standard LATCH system which is easy to install using the vehicle's lower anchors. Some families prefer seats that have locks that are easier to use like the Chicco KeyFit Infant Car Seat. It comes with a SuperCinch middle pull strap, and more reliable test results.
The base and carrier of this Century Carry On 35 Infant Car Seat is lightweight, so it's easy to travel with your child. It is also FAA certified for use in aircrafts.
In addition The carrier can be used with all strollers that have the snap-in connector. This feature is beneficial for parents who frequently switch vehicles and want to cut down on time while traveling.
car seats by age On 35 Infant Car Seat includes padding for infants that ensures a snug fit. This feature improves the comfort of your infant while traveling and allows them to sleep comfortably during rides. The insert is washable, allowing to be cleaned easily and maintain hygiene. It also works with the head support pad to provide optimal lateral support for your infant.
4. Nuna Pipa Urbn
The Nuna Pipa Urbn infant car seat is unique and extremely safe, without compromising on comfort. Consumer Reports, a world-renowned independent safety firm, was the one to design it. Aeroflex is an EPP foam that compresses and distributes impact energy during a collision, has been awarded a top crash protection rating. It also offers side impact protection for the ultimate in baby safety.
It installs into the vehicle without a base, and is fitted with the steel-reinforced pipaFIX stiff latches that are built into the seat itself that allow parents to secure the seat in just a few seconds with helpful indicators that signal a successful installation. It can be secured using a standard vehicle's seatbelt using the European method of installation.
Pipa Urbn's fast and simple installation is accompanied by its super light weight. It weighs only 7 pounds, which makes it easy to take in and out of your car and also on a stroller. It also pairs seamlessly and easily with the sleek Nuna MIXX Next Stroller to create a travel system that is perfect for your everyday adventures.
Another bonus of the Pipa Urbn is that it's compatible with different vehicles, which means you don't have to purchase an entirely new car seat when you decide to change your vehicle. It can be used in conjunction with the Nuna TRVL or TRIV Next stroller.
The Nuna Pipa URB is designed for comfort and ease of use. It has a comfortable shoulder and lower buckle cover. It is equipped with a UPF50+ canopy to shield your child from harmful sunlight. It comes with a flip-out eye shade and a large window for peek-a-boo and the famous Dream drape that slacks to the bottom of the seat to allow for uninterrupted napping.
Pipa Urbn can be used with any vehicle regardless of whether it does not come with ISOFIX or a LATCH connector. Simply pivot the pipaFIX latches forward from under the seat, find the latches in your vehicle, line them up, and click to attach. When you're ready to remove them, you can do it using just one hand.