Best Infant Safety Car Seats of 2025

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Infant safety car seats are essential for protecting babies during car rides. These seats are designed to keep infants secure and comfortable while in the car. They come in various sizes and styles to suit different ages and weights of babies. Most infant safety car seats are easy to install and can be adjusted to fit the baby snugly. They are also equipped with safety features such as five-point harnesses and side-impact protection. Investing in a high-quality infant safety car seat is a must-have for any parent who wants to keep their baby safe while traveling in a car.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat Cover #TOP 1
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Baby Trend EZ-Lift PLUS 35 Infant Car Seat Cover #TOP 2
Baby Trend EZ-Lift PLUS 35 Infant Car Seat
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base - Rear Facing Car Seat and Car Seat Base Cover #TOP 3
Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base - Rear Facing Car Seat and Car Seat Base
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Infant Safety Car Seats

#TOP 1 Best Car Seat

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat

2110186
Studio
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat Cover
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat, Studio

The Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat provides safety for rear-facing infants up to 35 pounds and 32 inches. This lightweight carrier is easy to transport from the car to the stroller, weighing only 7.2 pounds. With a 4-position adjustable base and an easy-to-read level indicator, it ensures an accurate installation and provides comfort for the baby as they grow. Additionally, this car seat is ProtectPlus engineered to protect your child in different types of crashes.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to carry
Simple installation process
Comfortable for baby
Excellent safety features
Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
Doesn't latch onto shopping carts
#TOP 2

Baby Trend EZ-Lift PLUS 35 Infant Car Seat

CS02D13A
Ultra Grey
Baby Trend EZ-Lift PLUS 35 Infant Car Seat Cover
Baby Trend EZ-Lift 35 PLUS Infant Car Seat, Ultra Grey

The Baby Trend EZ-Lift Car Seat is a lightweight infant car seat that offers superior comfort and safety for your baby. It features a built-in ergonomic grip that makes lifting and carrying the car seat easy and comfortable, even for longer periods of time. The handle of the car seat can also be used as an anti-rebound bar to limit rotation in the event of a collision. Weighing less than 8 pounds, this car seat is perfect for parents on the go. The base of the car seat includes a Flip Foot recline and bubble level indicator to help you get the perfect angle for your baby's comfort. The plush seating ensures that your baby will be comfortable during long car rides. The Baby Trend EZ-Lift Car Seat meets and exceeds federal safety standards and is FAA approved for airplane use.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Affordable price for quality
Compatible with multiple vehicles
Includes insert for smaller babies
Easy to install and remove
What We Don't Like
Base leveling can be tricky
Clip assembly is somewhat difficult
#TOP 3

Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base - Rear Facing Car Seat and Car Seat Base

SP101-10-033-003
Nitro Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base - Rear Facing Car Seat and Car Seat Base Cover
Doona Car Seat & Stroller, Nitro Black - All-in-One Travel System

The Doona Infant Car Seat and Latch Base is a travel-safe, rear-facing car seat that can be transformed into a stroller in seconds. With a 5-point harness, adjustable handlebar, and 3-layer side impact protection, this car seat is made of baby-safe, washable materials. It is FAA aircraft-approved and comes with a car seat base, a bamboo infant insert and head support, and a vehicle seat protector. Suitable for babies from 4 lbs to 35 lbs and with a maximum height of 32 inches, this car seat weighs 16.5 lbs, while the base weighs 10.3 lbs.

What We Like
Convenient car seat and stroller combo
Easy transition between modes
Compact and space-saving design
Durable and high-quality materials
Great for everyday use
What We Don't Like
Wheels not ideal for rough terrain
Handlebar height may be limiting
#TOP 4

Graco SnugFit 35 Infant Car Seat

2121500
Gotham
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Graco SnugFit 35 Infant Car Seat Cover
Graco SnugFit 35 Infant Car Seat with Simply Safe Adjust Harness System | Baby Car Seat with Anti Rebound Bar, Gotham

The Graco Infant Car Seat is designed to protect your rear-facing infant with features like SnugFit performance for infants from 4-35 lb, an Anti-Rebound Bar for added safety, a front-adjust No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System, and a 4-position adjustable base for proper installation. The SnugFit performance ensures a secure fit for your baby, while the Anti-Rebound Bar minimizes impact forces in case of a collision. With the easy-to-adjust harness system, you can customize the fit as your child grows. The adjustable base offers versatility, giving you the right recline position for a safe ride.

What We Like
Easy installation
Lightweight design
Comfortable padding
Stylish appearance
Secure and sturdy
What We Don't Like
Thin and flimsy cover
#TOP 5

Baby Trend Secure Snap Gear 35

CS66D19B
Wild Rose
Baby Trend Secure Snap Gear 35 Cover
Baby Trend Secure Snap Gear® 35 Infant Car Seat, Wild Rose

The Baby Trend Secure Snap 35 Infant Car Seat offers several features to enhance your experience. Its delta multi-grip carrying handle makes it easy to transport your baby comfortably. The no-rethread harness simplifies the installation process, allowing you to adjust the straps with ease. You will appreciate the one-hand easy-access seat release, making getting your child in and out hassle-free. Additionally, the removable 4-piece grow-with-me insert ensures a snug fit for your growing infant, while the extra-large 3-panel canopy provides ample shade and protection from the elements.

What We Like
Excellent safety performance
Cozy and cushioned design
Lightweight and easy to carry
Compatible with double stroller
Adjustable harness positioning
What We Don't Like
Buckle could be improved
Straps require significant strength
#TOP 6

Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 LX Infant Car Seat

2053220
Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 LX Infant Car Seat Cover
Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 LX Infant Car Seat, Baby Car Seat Featuring TrueShield Side Impact Technology

The Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 LX Infant Car Seat is a safe and convenient car seat designed for infants. It features an adjustable handle, a Silent Shade canopy, and an InRight LATCH system for easy attachment. The 4-position adjustable base allows for a customized fit to your vehicle, and an easy-to-read level indicator eliminates installation guesswork.

What We Like
Easy installation
Lightweight design
Comfortable padding
One-button handle
Compatible with Graco strollers
What We Don't Like
Minor difficulty removing from base
Handle position adjustment can be slow
#TOP 7

Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat and Base

05079625240070
Onyx
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat and Base Cover
Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat and Base, Rear-Facing Seat for Infants 4-35 lbs, Includes Infant Head and Body Support, Compatible with Chicco Strollers, Baby Travel Gear | Onyx/Black

The Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat is the easiest car seat to install, with a simple, accurate, and secure installation system. It features an easy-extend headrest system and an innovative SuperCinch Force-Multiplying LATCH Tightener. The car seat is compatible with Chicco strollers and includes a removable infant head and body support insert to create a newborn car seat. It has a full-coverage UPF 50+-rated canopy for sun protection.

What We Like
High safety standards
Easy installation
Comfortable for babies
Durable and long-lasting
Good sunshade coverage
What We Don't Like
Somewhat large size
Requires two hands for handle adjustment
#TOP 8

Evenflo Shyft DualRide

37312473
Boone Gray
Evenflo Shyft DualRide Cover
Shyft DualRide with Carryall Storage Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo (Boone Gray)

The Evenflo Infant Car Seat Combo, also known as Evenflo Shyft DualRide, is a single piece of baby gear that transforms from an infant car seat to a stroller and back again with ease. It accommodates infants as small as 3 lb and up to 35 lb, who measure from 15.7 in. to 32 in. The anti-rebound base helps absorb and dissipate crash forces for added stability and peace of mind. The LockStrong Installation and Quick Connectors offer solid, secure installation in no time. The integrated SensorSafe technology alerts you in real-time to 4 potentially unsafe conditions from your child's car seat via Bluetooth. The Evenflo Infant Car Seat Combo comes with a removable carryall storage bag to pack whatever your little one needs for the day, wheels that nest securely in removable, washable wheel wells in base to keep dirt off your backseat, and a removable cup holder for you!

What We Like
Convenient car seat and stroller combo
Easy to set up and use
Comfortable padding for baby
Ample storage and cup holder
Smart features and app integration
What We Don't Like
Can be heavy with growing baby
Initial learning curve for folding
#TOP 9

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat

1001-ARI-US-JKE
Jake
UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat Cover
UPPAbaby Aria Lightweight Infant Car Seat/Just Under 6 lbs for Easy Portability/Base with Load Leg + Infant Insert Included/Direct Stroller Attachment/Jake (Charcoal/Black Leather)

The UPPAbaby Aria Seat is designed for parents on the move, weighing just under 6 lbs. This lightweight car seat features an ergonomic aluminum handle, making it easy to carry wherever you go. Its extra-large canopy provides excellent sun protection and ventilation, ensuring your baby stays comfortable in various weather conditions. For added safety, the included base features a load leg and anti-rebound panel, minimizing movement during a collision. Installation is a breeze with the SmartSecure system, allowing for quick and secure setup every time you travel.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to carry
User-friendly installation
Comfortable for baby
Good ventilation
Adjustable headrest
What We Don't Like
Minor design issues
Box may arrive damaged
#TOP 10

Evenflo LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat

30512404AZ
Knoxville Gray
Evenflo LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat Cover
Evenflo LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat (Knoxville Gray), Lightweight, Extended Use, Belt Lock-Off, Ergonomic Handle

The Evenflo LiteMax Car Seat is a lightweight and versatile infant car seat that grows with your baby. With 4 shoulder harness positions, it can accommodate babies weighing 4 – 35 lb. Its extremely lightweight design makes it easy to pick up and carry, allowing you to go about your day with ease. The ergonomic handle adds to the comfort by making it more comfortable to carry the car seat in the bend of your arm. The full coverage canopy protects your little one from the sun, wind, and rain, while the easy-to-install base with a vehicle belt lock-off ensures a quick and secure installation. Designed to meet high safety and testing standards, the Evenflo LiteMax Car Seat provides peace of mind for parents.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Easy installation
Comfortable for baby
Good safety features
Affordable pricing
What We Don't Like
Limited color options
May need replacement as child grows
Buying Guide Image

Infant Safety Car Seats that Fulfill the Needs of Mommies and Babies

Importance of Infant Safety Car Seats

When it comes to the safety of our little ones, there is no room for compromise. This is why choosing the right infant safety car seat is so crucial. Not only is it the law in most places to have your child properly restrained in a car seat, but it can also mean the difference between life and death in the event of a car accident.

Types of Infant Safety Car Seats

There are several types of infant safety car seats on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. The most common types are:

  • Rear-facing infant car seats: These car seats are designed for infants from birth to around 12 months old. They are designed to be installed in the back seat of the car, facing the rear of the vehicle. This type of car seat is the safest option for infants, as it provides the most protection for their vulnerable neck and spine.

  • Convertible car seats: These car seats can be used as both rear-facing and forward-facing seats. They are designed for infants from birth to around 2 years old, and can be used as a rear-facing seat until the child reaches the maximum weight or height limit for that position. Once the child outgrows the rear-facing position, the seat can be converted to a forward-facing seat and used until the child reaches the maximum weight or height limit for that position as well.

  • 3-in-1 car seats: These car seats are similar to convertible car seats, but they can also be used as a booster seat for older children. They are designed for infants from birth to around 10 years old, and can be used in all three positions as the child grows.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Infant Safety Car Seat

When choosing an infant safety car seat, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are getting the best seat for your child. Some of these factors include:

  • Age and size of your child: The age and size of your child will determine which type of car seat is appropriate. It is important to choose a car seat that is appropriate for your child's current age and size, and will also be able to accommodate their growth as they get older.

  • Ease of installation: The car seat should be easy to install and secure in your vehicle. If you are unsure about how to properly install the car seat, it is a good idea to have it professionally installed by a certified car seat technician.

  • Comfort: The car seat should be comfortable for your child to sit in for extended periods of time. Look for car seats with padding, adjustable straps, and other features that will help keep your child comfortable on long car rides.

  • Safety ratings: It is important to choose a car seat that has been tested and certified for safety by a reputable organization. Look for car seats with high safety ratings from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Conclusion

Choosing the right infant safety car seat is crucial for the safety of your child. By considering factors such as your child's age and size, the ease of installation, comfort, and safety ratings, you can be confident that you are choosing the best car seat for your little one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do babies stay in infant car seat?

Babies typically use an infant car seat until they are 9 months to 2 years old, depending on their size. Parents may choose to switch to a larger, convertible car seat as long as it is safe and appropriate for their child's height and weight.

2. Is infant car seat safe for newborns?

Yes, both infant car seats and convertible car seats have rear-facing options that are safe for newborns. Many parents prefer using an infant car seat during the newborn stage because it is designed for tiny babies and can be easily detached from the car.

3. What type of car seat should newborns ride in?

Newborns should always ride in a rear-facing car seat, specifically an infant-only seat. This type of car seat is designed for rear-facing use and provides the necessary safety for newborns.

4. How long does the 2 hour car seat rule apply?

The 2-hour car seat rule should be followed until the baby is old enough to sit upright and control their head and neck movement. Although there is no specific age mentioned, it is important to ensure the baby's comfort and safety during long car rides.

5. When can you put a baby in a forward facing car seat?

It is now recommended to use rear-facing child seats until the child outgrows the weight and height limits set by the car seat manufacturer. This means that a baby may remain in a rear-facing car seat until well beyond their second birthday.

6. Do newborns need special car seats?

Newborns can use either a rear-facing infant car seat or a convertible car seat that offers both rear-facing and forward-facing options. The choice depends on the baby's size and weight. Both types of car seats are considered safe for newborns.

Editor's Notes

During our infant safety car seat research, we found 24 infant safety car seat products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 142,791 customer reviews through our big data system to write the infant safety car seats list. We found that most customers choose infant safety car seats with an average price of $221.31.

The infant safety car seats are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of infant safety car seats, including Graco, Baby Trend, DOONA, Chicco, Evenflo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Infant Safety Car Seats Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Graco Baby Trend DOONA Graco Baby Trend Graco Chicco Evenflo UPPAbaby Evenflo
Installation Type Seat Belt Latch Latch Latch Latch, Seat Belt Seat Belt LATCH system or European belt path or Belt lock-off Latch or Seat Belt Seat Belt Latch or Seat Belt
Color Studio Ultra Grey Nitro Black Gotham Wild Rose Ion Onyx Boone Gray Jake Knoxville Gray
Orientation Rear Facing Forward Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing Rear Facing
Material - Polyester, Plastic, Metal PA+GF, PP, Al, PU, EPS, Polyester - Polyester, Plastic, Metal Polyester Polyester, Plastic, Metal Polyester Polyester Polyester
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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