Inexperienced parents often have difficulty choosing the right car seat for their children to protect them from head impacts, car accidents, humidity, and temperature.
To help you shop for the best baby car seat in Australia, you need to ensure that it is safe, secure, and comfortable at the same time.
We will tell you how to choose the perfect car seat that is not only the right size, but is also long-lasting, pocket-friendly, and can be used in a dual position.
Sensible thinking!
So, let’s explore together the car seats that will suit your budget, car size, interior, and your lifestyle as well. Nevertheless, parents prefer using and buying a car seat that can be used in front and rearward directions, which will keep their baby secure in both ways. What do you think?
Read below!
9 Best Baby Car Seats in Australia – Modern Technology, Durable, and Safe
You landed here, so you must be looking for the Best Baby Car Seat in Australia that will suit your lifestyle. Guessed it right!
Want to have a look at the best baby car seats in Australia Reviews, Scroll gently, learn freely!
Comparison Table
When comparing the various car seat options, you will undoubtedly stumble across some of the options manufactured by Maxi Cosi. It is the most trusted and one of the most popular car seat brands.
InfaSecure is a 100% Australian, 4th generation brand known to create comfortable, stylish, and safest car seats and other nursery products.
The convertible booster seat by safety 1st is yet another great option that parents can consider while purchasing a car seat for their kids.
Maxi Cosi has always come up with exceptional products and the Newborn Baby Capsule is no exception. This car seat is highly compatible and has so much to offer.
Undoubtedly, Maxi Cosi is a suitable option for newborns up to 4 years of age. It is spacious enough to accommodate your baby easily.
Looking for a baby seat that will last your child for a while? Wishing there was one that would keep your baby safe? Well, here’s a suitable seat that provides extra protection. Furthermore, your child can use this car seat 6 months to 8 years.
Are you looking for a baby seat that is narrow and will keep your child safe? Worry not, this seat can easily fit into smaller cars. Moreover, it also has the safest rearward facing for younger kids!
With this adjustable and comfort-providing car seat, your child can now travel safely and happily. Furthermore, you can make changes to it as your child grows up.
1. Maxi Cosi Moda Convertible – With GCELL Next Generation Crash Absorbing Technology
Features
The one we are reviewing today is Moda. It is full-sized and has all the required comfort and safety features.
Why should you consider buying a Maxi Cosi Moda Car seat?
Here’s the answer:
This beautifully designed Moda car seat incorporates Maxi Cosi’s award-winning innovative safety features which include GCELL and air-protect technology for side impact protection.
Its patented next-generation GCELL crash absorbing technology makes use of high-performance TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer). The entire exterior of the baby seat shell is lined with this TPE protecting your child’s entire body by acting as a crash zone.
As a result, it greatly reduces the crash impact just like a car bumper does to your car. Moreover, GCELL is an innovative structural design that is flexible, light yet strong and is suitable for the purpose.
Additionally, its superior Air Protect side-crash protection specifically protects your kid’s head in case of a side crash.
It instantaneously decreases the impact of the crash by absorbing it into the head support cushion. Therefore, protecting your child’s head from any injury.
Furthermore, this is one car seat that grows with your child. You can use its rear-facing position up to the age of 30 months, approximately, and then after that change it to forward-facing until 4 years of age.
Also, its QuickFit feature has a changeable harness height, 5 different headrest positions, and an easily modifiable 6-point harness. All these easy to adjust features ensure a perfect and comfortable fit for your growing child.
Plus, you would like to know that:
For added comfort, its seats are made using wicking fabric that keeps the moisture away from your kid’s skin. Also, its ISOFIX compatibility ensures secure and simple car installation. You can connect it by just clicking-in its flexible connectors to the vehicle’s anchorage points.
It also boasts some added features including a washable seat cover, protector mat, infant inserts, and belt mates that are padded.
Also, it includes a lifetime warranty and exchange service in case of an accident. However, this car seat might not be suitable for small cars as its rear-facing position leaves little room for a passenger in the back seat.
Pros
cons
2. InfaSecure Kompressor 4 Astra – ISOFIX Compatible with Air Cocoon Technology
Features
The Kompressor Astra car seat by InfaSecure is one amazing convertible baby car seat for parents.
Unlike other car seats, it is not wide and bulky. It boasts a compact and ultra-narrow design, perfectly suitable for families having multiple children using car seats, or having a small car.
Being 44cm across the widest point, its height is also shorter by 3.5cm compared to other standard baby car seats.
Will this narrow seat be roomy and comfortable?
The answer is yes!
Despite being ultra-narrow this baby seat still is super roomy and comfortable. Its adjustable harness easily accommodates a 4-year-old kid and even a 6-year-old average-sized kid. Moreover, it leaves enough room for a passenger or another car seat.
Furthermore, it features a simple adjustable harness, 5 different heights for shoulder slots, and 9 different recline positions. These features give added comfort as it can easily be customized to fit your child’s size.
Its car seat is made up of a weft knit Active Fabric that is similar to the fabric used by athletes. Therefore, it is an extremely comfortable and breathable fabric that is smooth and soft to touch.
Moreover:
It helps in drawing maximum moisture from your kid’s skin, keeping your child super comfortable throughout the ride. Moreover, you can easily take out its cover and wash it without uninstalling the car seat.
It also features an integrated Air Cocoon technology for enhanced protection. It makes use of its blow-molded design that dramatically decreases the impact force in case of a crash.
This blow-molded exterior keeps your child’s body and head safe in case of side-impact force. Also, it is ISOFIX compatible for ease of installation.
All in all, this car seat is an all-rounder, it is lightweight, having a narrow design that is perfectly suitable for small cars. However, some people might find it heavy as it weighs around 8.8kg.
Pros
cons
3. Safety 1st Solo Convertible – Retractable Cup Holders
Features
It features large wings on the side that provide maximum protection from impact forces in a side crash. As a result, keeping your child safe and giving enhanced protection. Furthermore, its seat belt sash guide makes it child-safe, keeping it away from your child’s neck.
Wait! There’s more this car seat has to offer:
It features a reclining backrest that is compatible with almost all types of vehicles. Therefore, you need not worry if it will fit in your car or not.
Moreover, it has 5 head positions that are easily adjustable and you can customize it according to your requirement. It also features an armrest for added comfort.
Its infant inserts are removable, which means you can take the inserts out when your child grows and the seat will be adjusted according to your growing child. You can easily use this seat up to 8 years of age as a booster seat with its lap-sash belt.
Furthermore, it is made up of great fabric to make it more comfortable. The covers can be easily removed and you can wash them in case your child spills juice on it.
It has a slim-fit design, making it suitable for both big and small cars. Besides, this car seat doesn’t take up much space and you can easily use multiple car seats in your car along with this one.
And note this:
Its narrow design makes room for almost 3 seats that can fit across the back seats of almost any type of car making it a perfect choice for a large family.
Lastly, it features large cup holders that are retractable when required. You can easily keep snacks, drinks for your child when going on your next road trip.
However, the only drawback with these cup holders is that the child, when in harness, might not be able to reach them.
Pros
cons
4. Mothers Choice Avoro Convertible Car – Affordable, Easy to Maintain, Washable
Features
Mothers Choice has been in the market for more than 4 decades and is highly trusted in terms of producing quality products.
Dual-position – appropriate for all ages:
Suitable for newborns up to 4 years of age, it is a good investment. For infants, usually till 6 months, it should be positioned rear-facing for your baby’s safety.
On the other hand, once the shoulder of the infant crosses the lowest height point, it is time to change the position to a forward-facing position. Appropriate for older kids, it comes with an inbuilt harness, keeping your toddler secure.
2020 Canstar Award:
In 2020, they got the award for the most satisfied customers for the best baby car seats in Australia.
The multi-position headrest gives you greater flexibility and you can adjust it easily according to your kid’s position. Furthermore, the 2 reclining positions amp up the comfort factor.
Unlike many other car seats, the infant insert in this one is removable. Yes, once your baby outgrows it, you can take it out and keep it safe to use next time. Moreover, even the padded belt covers are removable.
Tired of those little food crumbs on the seat?
Well, we all know how messy kids can get. Now, you don’t need to worry much. The covers are machine washable and can be washed after every use.
But, what makes it different from the rest?
Sure, most of the car seats have machine-washable covers, so how is this different? Usually, taking the cover off is a nightmare. Yes, we have been there! Some covers don’t even seem to budge.
Not with the Avoro convertible car seat. The cover comes off within seconds, and is quite easy to put back on.
With an easy installation and maintenance process, things can’t get any simpler.
Wait, they do!
Weighing 8 kg, it is lighter than many other seats in the market. Hence, you can carry it around without tiring your arms. Also, it comes with a 6-year guarantee. Fair enough, isn’t it?
So, if you are looking for something affordable, and easy to use, this might be a perfect choice. It does not offer any fancy features and that is the reason for its economical price. Remember to go through the safety manual before you use the seat.
Lastly, the black color allows it to be unisex and also looks cool, doesn’t it?
On the downside, it does not have much to offer in terms of added features and functions. It is a simple, basic seat and not something more.
Pros
cons
5. Maxi Cosi Citi Newborn Baby Capsule – Your Baby’s Partner in the Car
Features
Make traveling easier:
First of all, it hardly weighs 6.4 kg. Therefore, it is portable and easy to carry around. So, if the baby just slept, no need to wake them up. The ergonomic handle makes carrying it from one place to another pretty simple.
Coupled with a car base, installing it is a piece of cake. It stays in the car, and is compatible with strollers from various brands, allowing you to complete your baby’s travel system.
Travel partner all the way:
Undoubtedly, sunny mornings are no fun when the baby is fast asleep. No worries. It comes with a convenient pull-up hood that is UPF 50+. Not only will it protect the child from harsh sun rays, but it will also allow the baby to sleep peacefully by giving protection.
Moreover, if you want, you can easily remove the infant inserts and padded belts as your kids grow up.
Since the cover comes out easily, and is machine washable, you do not have to worry about juice and milk spills. The easy clip-on makes it easy to attach with ISOFIX.
Lastly, it comes with a lifetime warranty. Additionally, on the hardware, you get a solid 10-year warranty.
Unlike others, it also offers a 3-year warranty on the fabric. So, if you have any issues with the quality of the fabric, you can always claim it.
Best of all, there is an accident replacement warranty also. Read it in detail to know how and what it covers.
But do keep in mind that the adaptor and strollers are not sold with it and need to be purchased separately.
Amazing, isn’t it?
The only downside we could find was the suitability factor. Unlike other car seats that can be used for both babies as well as toddlers, this can be used only till the baby turns 6 months. The reason for this limitation is the fact that it has been designed specifically for infants. But, similar seats cater to a wider age bracket.
Pros
cons
6. Maxi Cosi Vita Smart Convertible – Durable, Safety Shield, and Deep
Features
As compared to other options, the seat is deeper and wider, which makes it better for kids above four years.
Safety features to look out for:
It has a lot to offer on the safety front. It comes with a safety shield, double-action protection, safety harness, and seat belts. In addition to this, you get a G-cell design.
What is the G-cell design?
It makes installation super easy. Along with it, the sides offer higher protection, especially for the head and torso. Not only do you get a cushioned side, but you also get an extra layer of support on the head.
Installation, what is that?
When it comes to the installation process, life is much easier. Now, you don’t need to go through the hassle of spending hours trying to figure out how to install the car seat. All you need to do is to find whether it is compatible with your car or not.
Generally, most of the cars are ISOFIX and are compatible with the ISOGO Series. So, all you need to do is check the compatibility, and 2 clicks are all that is required to install it.
More features:
Facing the rear, it has an adjustable headrest. You can adjust it to 8 different positions. Additionally, the inbuilt harness system saves you from the hassle of seat belts and cross over straps. The side impact also helps to save from any shocks on the neck and head.
The rear-facing car seat comes with 3 positions and can recline. It even comes with a built-in bar to recline. WOW! That’s some useful stuff.
Just like other seats, the infant insert can be removed. Also, taking the cover off and washing it in the machine makes it easy to maintain, and keep it clean and tidy.
Want to know the downside?
It is relatively expensive – Of course, for the safety features it offers, it is sure to come with a price tag. If you are willing to make a once in a lifetime investment with it, this is a good choice. Provided you keep it with care.
Another issue is that it is heavier as compared to others. Yes, it weighs a whopping 10.35 kgs.
Pros
cons
7. InfaSecure Luxi II Astra – 0 To Eight Years
Features
From birth to eight years old!
Uniquely, your child can use this seat from the time of their birth till they almost turn eight. Therefore, you will not have to replace this as you would with the regular ones.
This is because it features different modes/arrangements which are suitable for different ages.
Firstly, there is the Rearward Facing mode, which is appropriate for infants until they turn twelve months old. In this mode, the depth is 58 centimeters.
Secondly, you can turn this around and use it in the Foreword Facing arrangement. It becomes a seat with an internal harness that restricts your child and is suitable until they turn four years old. Moreover, in this arrangement, the depth is 50 centimeters.
To turn to this mode you need to make the height of the shoulder maker 33.5 centimeters (Lower).
Lastly, is the Booster Seat configuration which is appropriate for children who are four years old until they turn eight. For this, turn the shoulder height to 42 centimeters (Middle).
Furthermore, in this mode, you can use the lap and sash seatbelt of the vehicle. The shoulder marker height goes up to 51.5 centimeters (Upper), above this you have to stop using it.
Keep Your Baby Safe and Comfortable!
Additionally, this seat features the A.C.T. (Air Cocoon Technology). The entire shell of the seat is filled with air. Thus, this will reduce the negative impact of an accident, so it keeps your baby safe and secure.
Moreover, this has active fabric which is a type of material that is also used in athletic wear. Therefore, this draws away moisture from your baby’s skin and keeps them dry. Furthermore, it is also very soft and breathable so your kid will always be comfortable.
This also features a smaller and new footprint base and weighs 7.82 kilograms. In addition to this, it has nine reclining positions, and its aqua color makes it look appropriate for both boys and girls.
And most interestingly, you can easily remove its inserts and soft covers and wash them in a washing machine.
Both its adjustable headrest and the backrest are blow molded. This, combined with the side wings, work as airbags.
There’s more:
The base has a width of 37 centimeters, and the arm’s width is 48 centimeters. Moreover, its side wings are also 48 centimeters wide.
With its headrest up, it has a height of 79 centimeters, and with it down, this has a height of 68 centimeters. Overall, the seat is 88 centimeters long, 49 centimeters wide, and has a height of 47 centimeters.
Also, this comes with a lot of useful accessories such as shoulder pads, comfort inserts, and a SafeGrip belt clamp.
Sadly, unlike other baby seats, this is not ISOFix Compatible so you might find this more difficult to install.
Pros
cons
8. InfaSecure Quattro Astra – 2 Configurations, Narrow, and Safe
Features
Let’s dig in!
This car seat will last your child from the time of their birth until they turn four years old. Also, it has two different modes.
Firstly, the rearward facing arrangement is extended and is suitable for children until they turn thirty months old.
Additionally, it is compact with a depth of 54 centimeters. Furthermore, in this configuration, the height of the shoulder maker is 34 centimeters (Lower).
This is the most secure way for little kids to travel in a car.
Next is the Forward Facing mode which has a depth of 50 centimeters. This comes with a harness (internal) and is suitable for children up to 4 years old.
For this, you need to make the height of the shoulder marker 39 centimeter (Middle). Moreover, the upper height of its shoulder marker is 43.5 cm, do not use it above this.
Uniquely, even in its widest points in both modes, this is still only 420mm wide Therefore, it is the narrowest seat with a built-in harness in the Australian Market. Moreover, its base has a width of 34 centimeters.
There’s More!
It features nine different reclining positions and has a headrest that you can adjust easily. By using the twist and lift system, you can adjust the headrest in seconds. When the headrest is down it has a height of 62 cm, and when it’s up, the height is 76 cm.
Overall, this seat is 67.5 centimeters long, 45 centimeters wide, and has a height of 53 centimeters.
Furthermore, it also has the Air Cocoon Technology which means there’s a layer of air in its shell, this will keep your child safe and protected even in a crash.
Also, it has Active Fabric which is soft and keeps your baby dry by absorbing moisture. Therefore, your child always remains very comfortable. It includes accessories such as shoulder pads, comfort inserts, a protector for the vehicle seat, and a SafeGrip Belt clamp.
It weighs 9.57 kilograms and its grey color makes it suitable for both genders. Additionally, you can easily remove the shoulder pads and they are also twist-resistant.
Although this baby seat has many great features, modes, accessories, and whatnot, it still isn’t ISOFix Compatible. Hence, it might be a little difficult to install.
Furthermore, its competitors are useful for kids until they turn eight while this is not suitable for children above four years old.
Pros
cons
9. Maxi Cosi Rodi – Air Protection System
Features
Here’s The Deal!
This car seat is suitable for children from the age of four to eight. In addition to this, you can adjust its headrest to six positions which helps as the children grow bigger. It also has an anti-vibration dampener that assists in keeping the seat still when it is not being used.
Moreover, it has two reclining positions – the first is for sitting, and the second one is a relaxing position.
Additionally, it also has side wings that can expand. Not only does it give comfort but also creates a narrow fitment. You can also adjust the belt guide so they fit your growing baby’s shoulder perfectly.
This seat weighs 4.9 kilograms and is also easy to install and transition from a car to another car.
This is 44 cm long, 47 cm wide, and has a height of 70 cm. With its cabernet color, it stands out and looks attractive. You can comfortably wash its covers in your washing machine.
Air Protection reduces risks:
Uniquely, it has an Air Protection system which helps in extending the ride-down period and so decreases the risks of injuries.
This air release system also protects your child from side forces by releasing the air precisely. As a result, the impact is reduced by thirty-five percent.
Moreover, this has Cool Baby Fabric, which assists in keeping your baby dry by drawing moisture away and so keeps the child comfortable.
Also, it comes with a lifetime warranty, ten years on its hardware, and three years on the fabric. Furthermore, you also get the service of an accident exchange.
However, the competitors of this seat can be used for longer from birth till the child turns 8, and other seats also offer more recline positions.
Pros
cons
Buying Guide
Knowing about the best baby car seat in Australia is a primary point to consider, as you will need it right after you leave the hospital with your baby.
It is no doubt the primary concern for the newly-made parents who want a comfortable baby car seat to make their child feel at ease. This guide will help you in buying the right one for your baby.
Ready for a learning ride?
I know, I know, before we begin you must be having some questions in your mind related to the car seat, your car, and the choice of the seat.
So, it’s better to solve those queries first and take the rest of the stuff to the second.
It’s good to answer these questions before we proceed.
Car Seats for All Ages – Adjustable, Convertible, and Rearward-facing
There are various types of car seats available, depending on the age limit of the child for whom you want to buy one. However, the best child car seats are those that are adjustable, easy to set, comfortable, and protect the child from falling.
Tips: Scope out your car space before you go to the market to buy the best one.
Convertible Car Seats:
Infants starting from 30 months up to 4 years can easily use this type of seat. It can be used in two positions, forward and rearward
Therefore, you don’t have to buy another car seat as your child grows. It is affordable, accessible, and reliable.
However, according to the size, body, and height of the child, its seat can be adjusted. So, you don’t have to worry if your child doesn’t fit into it because it can be customized by all means.
Infant-built Car Seats:
These seats are specially designed for newborns and infants. Also known as capsule seats, these are suitable for babies falling in the 0-6 months age bracket.
These are easy to adjust, economical, and occupy less space in the back seat of the car. But, you have to buy another one as soon as your child grows up.
Moreover, these capsule-style seaters can be fixed in the baby stroller as well. On the other hand, if you do not want to buy a separate car seat, then you should go for a 3-in-1 design baby stroller, from which the baby capsule can be fixed in the car.
It is lightweight, portable, and looks stylish. Also, it creates a flexible travel system for infants who love sleeping when traveling in the car.
The plus point is that all these car seats have a proper belt and a safety system, keeping your baby secure, safe, and free from shocks.
Booster Carrying Seat:
These seats protect the child from accidents and are shock-resistant. Due to its ultra-safe features, it secures the child from all the sides when he/she is in the car.
Now, parents do not have to worry while driving with babies in the car, because the booster knows how to boost their morale.
Furthermore, these booster seats are for children under 4 years or so.
Material – Is it Worth Buying?
Every car seat design has specific features and materials that make them special and different from one another. But make sure that the material of the seat that you choose is:
The Top Rated Best Baby Car Seat in Australia knows how to mold itself according to the situation and requirement, therefore, all these specifications and benefits are found in them.
The material of the car seat is the most important factor that parents are looking for. Usually, to keep their child safe and cool with the reclining ability and the headrest positioning capability, parents look for a car seat that is made up of breathable textured fabric.
Secondly, parents also want the material to be smooth and soft so that it would not irritate their baby by causing them discomfort.
So, what’s your take on this? Do you want the same?
Design – Comfortable Insert and Long-lasting
Most of the baby seats come with compact and advanced technology nowadays. These include high-quality properties to create a professional design and give you a carrier suitable for babies from 0 to 8 years of age.
Its suitability depends on the dimensions and features that it holds to inspire you. Plus, they also offer different accessories with the seat that you have longed for a very long time.
Firstly, it includes equipment like a high-profile belt, plus a comfort insert to give a relaxing environment to the child. Some brands also include shoulder pads, buckles, and clamps. Thus, it is a complete package that you require for your child’s safety.
Moreover, the reclining position can vary from 4 to 9 depending on the seat you are choosing. Also, an important feature to look for in a baby seat is the ISOFix compatibility.
It should also include side wings for protection from any accident. Additionally, it should consist of a headrest position that will secure the head of the baby. The maximum headrest positions should be around 9 depending on the manufacturing of the item.
Safety Standards – You Should Know!
Before buying a car seat you must keep the safety standard of the object in mind. It is good for you to know if it is recommended and accepted by the highway traffic administration or not.
Moreover, it’s always better to read up on the guidelines issued by The Association of Pediatrics and highway traffic to give you an idea about the seats preferred for newborns and toddlers.
Once you have done this, pick the one that suits your pocket and the car.
Some of the safety precautions that you should take after installing the baby seat in the car:
Tip: Never place a seat in the front car seat. It can be very dangerous for the child and the driver too.
Instruction – Best Ones So Far!
Before you leave the shop, make sure that the seat has its diagram and a manual that will show you how to fix it. You have to keep the diagram right in front of you when installing it because adjusting the car seat is a tricky job.
Got it?
Secondly, you can also watch Youtube videos, read articles, and search online, if you are not getting things right.
Tip: Do show the installation and adjustment of the baby seat to a professional and get it checked by them.
However, the best way to learn about the correct installation or to assure yourself about it is to download a CPS technician app system on your smartphone, and get expert advice!
Warning: All the car seats should be manufactured as per the current safety standards, they should have been approved and tested before coming into the market.
A Complete Jargon to Understand – ISOFix to i-size
The i-size car seats are available in a huge range in which modern features are installed, and are manufactured for every type of car with R129 regulation.
Furthermore, these are tested with crash, and keep the babies safe and sound. Babies measuring 45cm to 87cm can easily fit in these seats. Perfect!
Perhaps, it is the best one for toddlers and infants who need to be protected inside the car.
Have a Good Time Toddler!
FAQ
For quite a long time this type of car seat can be used though it can be expensive it can be long-lasting. It should work for your baby until he/she becomes 6-8 years. The car seat can be an expensive item so do make sure that you buy a good-quality product with an almost 10-years warranty.
The seat can occupy a large space, so before buying measure your car and then choose the seat that will adjust conveniently. Plus, it takes the space of the single-seat, but some can be larger than that too.
It should be portable enough so that parents can easily handle it and carry it along. Besides, when being transferred with the baby from one place to another it can create a problem due to its heavyweight. So, if the seat weight is less and your baby is heavy, you can still carry it.
To get rid of all the stains and marks, the fabric should be washable and replaceable. Also, it should be made up of high-quality material. However, if it is not washable then all you can do is change the fabric or clean it with a dry or wet tissue. But, most of the fabrics are washable.
The most important features you should focus on are price, compatibility, model, harness, side-impact protection, and anti-rebound system. Moreover, the straps of the car seat are also an important feature that you should keep in mind before buying a baby car seat.
Conclusion
The arrival of a new baby means you have to childproof the house, install gates near the staircase, and buy a safety car seat for the baby before you start traveling with the baby.
Purchasing the best baby car seats in Australia for your child is probably one of the most important purchases that you can make, and rightly so. It is a legal requirement to suitably and securely restrain the baby in a car seat before traveling.
Therefore, the Maxi Cosi Moda car seat has all the features that you might be looking for. Its GCELL crash absorbing technology and airside impact protection provides enhanced safety to your child, giving you peace of mind. Furthermore, it grows with your growing child meaning you can use it till your child turns 6 years old.
