More Qs on car seats

Hello,

How long can one use the infant car seats? Are there any brands you would recommend that have an infant insert which can be removed and used for babies 6 months and above? Can the baby sit up by that time and does not need to be flat?


I have been researching car seats- for now we plan on getting the Graco infant car seat as it seems to have the best safety and user reviews. Plus every other stroller company seems to have an adapter specifically for a Graco seat. But it has been hard to tell if we don't need to get an infant carrier and just go for car seat for a 6mo+ baby with an infant insert.


Thanks.

"How long can one use the infant car seats? "


The ones with the handle right? It depends on the weight and height of the child, but typically until around 6 months. There are max height and weight limits stated for each seat. Height tends to be when the top of baby's head reaches the top of the backrest. Normally you'll reach the height limit before the weight limit.


"Are there any brands you would recommend that have an infant insert which can be removed and used for babies 6 months and above?"


Typically you would get an infant one, then upgrade to a "fixed" seat at 6 months. Note that many, if not most fixed seats can be used from birth. It's just that the infant seat is so gosh darned convenient since you can lift it in an out.


If you have a car, I would recommend the infant seat be one with a base. That way it takes seconds to click it in and out of the car instead of having to mess with mounting.


We loved our Graco Snugride. Very well designed. For fixed seat, we have two Britax Marathons. Also we got a Compass Booster which is foldable, lightweight and can be used from 2 years. Not nearly as comfortable as the Marathon but convenient for taxi rides.



"Can the baby sit up by that time and does not need to be flat?"


Most babies can sit up reasonably well by about 4 months. Even at 6 months, the fixed seats will be pretty reclined. The problem with younger babies tends to be more leaning to the side than falling forward since the harness also holds baby in place.

Thanks, axptguy for the explanations.... very useful for a first timer!:) I am still trying to figure out how much gear do we really need to get for the baby. Infant car seat that we can carry around specially in and out of airports and planes seems like a better and better idea. I saw a couple of infants in the Snugride and they really do look comfortable compared to the bassinets where infants seem to be rolling around.

"I am still trying to figure out how much gear do we really need to get for the baby"


An eternal question. ;) My tip is to buy little and add later. Saves a hassle.



"I saw a couple of infants in the Snugride and they really do look comfortable compared to the bassinets where infants seem to be rolling around."


Bassinets are a much better option for walks and so forth. Flat and horizontal is better for the baby. They do sleep very well there. In my opinion car seats should only be used when cars are involved.


As for the rolling around, just put a rolled up towel on one side. They like that.