The best car seats by features like safety, ease of use, extended use and more

Read time: 4 minutes 30 seconds

Choosing a baby car seat is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your baby. You’ll need to consider things like safety, ease of use, or adaptability as your child grows. With so many features to evaluate, we thought it’d be helpful to break down what some of the bestselling car seats on the market excel at.

Each recommendation is chosen for its standout features, helping you choose the car seat that best fits your family’s lifestyle and priorities.

Let’s take a look.

Best car seat for safety: Joie i-Snug 2

When it comes to safety, the Joie i-Snug 2 Group 0+ Car Seat is an outstanding choice. Designed with infants in mind (from birth to 12 months), it meets the highest ECE R129/03 standards, thanks to its enhanced side-impact protection and energy-absorbing materials. Its ISOFIX connectors lock the included LX2 i-Base securely to your vehicle, while the dual adjust support leg reduces rotation upon impact.

But that’s not all. The lightweight design (just 3.25 kg) makes it easy to carry in and out of the car without compromising on protection. With these superior safety features, this Joie car seat is a standout choice for parents who want to prioritise their child's safety above all else.

Learn more about the Joie i-Snug 2’s safety features

Best car seat for ease of use: Puggle Lockton 360° Rotate

For those with mobility or back issues, the Puggle Lockton 360° Rotate is an absolute lifesaver. Its 360-degree swivel feature makes it incredibly easy to access, allowing you to effortlessly rotate the seat towards the car door. This means you don’t have to struggle with awkward angles when placing or removing your child from the car—perfect if you have back problems or mobility issues. The seat is suitable for newborns all the way up to 12 years, making it a versatile, long-term option that adapts as your child grows.

With multiple recline options, top-tier padding, ISOFIX anchor points, a choice of two colours (storm black or blush pink), and hassle-free installation, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and comfort for families who need easy access and flexibility.

Watch a demonstration of the Puggle Lockton 360° Rotate

Best car seat for growing with your child: Ickle Bubba Sphere 360° Spin

If you're looking for a car seat that will grow with your child, the Ickle Bubba Sphere is the ultimate choice. Designed to be used from birth to 12 years (or 36kg), this seat offers extended value, eliminating the need for multiple car seat purchases as your child grows. Its 360-degree rotation allows easy transitions between rear-facing and forward-facing modes, making it both practical and future-proof. It also features ISOFIX installation for added stability, a reclining function for comfort, and an adjustable headrest that moves as your child grows. For families who want a one-time investment that could last for over a decade, the Ickle Bubba Sphere 360° car seat is the best option.

Read more about the Ickle Bubba Sphere 360° Spin

Best car seat for going from the car to the pushchair: Joie i-Level Recline

For families who need convenience when transitioning between car and pushchair, this Joie car seat is the perfect solution. An easy seat release button allows for quick car seat transfers, while the rotating ISOFIX base adds an extra layer of convenience.

Compatible with most Joie pushchairs and with other pushchairs using Maxi-Cosi® car seat adapters (sold separately), this makes it incredibly easy to move your baby from the car to the stroller without waking them. (Always check your pushchair’s compatibility before purchasing).

With its seamless travel system compatibility and superior reclining options, this car seat ensures your baby can travel comfortably and sleep undisturbed, whether they’re in the car or a pushchair.

Look at what else the Joie i-Level Recline can do

Best car seat for extended rear-facing capabilities: Ickle Bubba Rotator 360° Spin

For families focused on extended rear-facing safety, the Ickle Bubba Rotator 360° Spin is an ideal choice. This versatile seat is specifically designed to keep your child rear-facing from birth up to 18 kg (approximately 4 years old), giving you peace of mind knowing your little one has added protection during those early years. Studies show that rear-facing seats provide enhanced safety, particularly in the event of a collision, making the Rotator’s extended rear-facing design a valuable feature.

Beyond safety, the 360-degree rotation of the Rotator allows you to swivel the seat toward the car door, making it much easier to get your child in and out. This car seat also offers a top tether for additional stability, ISOFIX installation with handy indicators to confirm a secure fit and an adjustable headrest that grows with your child. As a Group 0+/1/2/3 car seat, it’s designed to last from birth to around 12 years, providing a reliable and adaptable solution for growing families who prioritise safety and ease of use in every journey.

Check out the Ickle Bubba Rotator’s other safety features

We’re happy to help!

If you’re still unsure which car seat is the best fit for your family, our customer service experts are always here to help. With extensive knowledge of each model and an understanding of your family’s unique needs, they can guide you toward the right choice. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to make your decision as easy as possible.