The Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat is quite popular among organizations and parents alike and for many good reasons. It comes with several features that will benefit both the baby and parents. It’s an impressive option for anyone looking for an affordable quality safety seat for their babies. The KeyFit is easy to install with a LATCH system that’s simple to use. Moreover, it fared better in crash tests compared to most of its competitors. Although it may not be the best choice for some families, especially those who are always going to the city as it’s a bit heavy, it’s still worth considering because of its price.
Key Features and Specifications
- Dimensions: 17 in width, 26 in height (top handlebar to base)
- Carrier Weight: 9.6 lbs
- Height and Weight Limitations: 30 in, 4 to 30 lbs
- Shoulder Height: 6 to 11.5 in
- Five-point harness
- Pne-pull for loosening and tightening strap
- Both base sides come with bubble indicators
- Thick padding and the seat cover is machine-washable
- It includes an infant insert to provide extra support for small babies
- The carrier shell is lined with energy-absorbing foam
How Easy Is It To Install?
Getting the right safety for your newborn can be stressful, especially if you’re a first-time parent. Chicco designed the KeyFit 30 in such a way that parents can install it accurately and efficiently every time.
Installing this infant car seat is quite straightforward and easy. It has a simple manual with easy-to-follow diagrams and the labels on the carrier and base makes it easy for parents to see where everything should go. The seat’s base can be installed using your vehicle’s seat belt or UAS connectors, whichever you think will provide the most solid fit in your car. It comes with bubble indicators on both sides of its base to ensure that it is within the necessary range.
Its LATCH system on the other hands is a breeze to connect. Just push the UAS connectors onto your car’s anchors, and once you hear a distinct click, the seat is secure and attached firmly to its base. Tightening this will normally require some muscle strength but with the Chicco KeyFit one-pull loosening and tightening strap, pulling it straight up is simple. The company also offers the base on its own for those who regularly switched vehicles.
Safety
As mentioned, this seat passed crash tests with flying colors compared to others available in the market today. It even tested higher for head injuries than the national safety standards. Your baby will get excellent protection in case of a car crash thanks to its EPS energy-absorbing foam and plenty of body and head support features. The five-point safety harness will snap securely together. You can loosen and tighten it smoothly as well.
The KeyFit 30 is also highly recommended by NICU nurses because of its infant insert inclusion which will give smaller and premature babies an added protection layer. This infant safety seat is FAA compliant, making it the best choice for families who are always traveling.
Vehicle models do not come in the same design. However, this car seat’s ReclineSure spring-loaded leveling system will help you adjust its fit in various back seat designs on the majority of cars. The bubble level indicators will help ease your mind knowing that the base is in the proper angle, while the SuperCinch LATCH system will provide a tight and secure fit with just a simple pull.
Comfort
Most infants do not like being strapped in car seats, but the Chicco KeyFit padding offers a comfortable ride for your precious angel. Although its infant padding and cushy padding are very impressive as well, the fabric could be softer.
Another notable comfort feature of this baby product is its canopy, which provides shade to your little one’s eyes from harsh bright light and helps protect their sensitive skin from any sunburn. It would be nice though if the canopy can be extended further when using it with strollers, but you can place a light blanket on top of it will be just as fine.
Pros
- A high-quality infant safety seat from a trusted brand.
- Very affordable.
- Provides a secure fit for smaller babies and newborn.
- Very easy to install with numerous features intended to for first-time parents.
- Its compact design makes it suitable for a wide range of smaller vehicle models.
- Easy to clean with machine washable, removable covers.
- Perfect for families who are always traveling as it conforms to the regulations of FAA.
Cons
- The fabric may not provide enough breathability, which may result in excessive sweating of your baby during summer.
- Its Canopy does not offer enough protection from the sun.
- Heavier than most car seats.
- You can use it without its base, but it may not be as secure without it.
Final Words
The Chicco KeyFit 30 is not perfect (but no product is), but it is quite impressive. Its quality and crash test results ratings are superb. The best thing about it is its ease of use and simple installation process. It has a few drawbacks, but overall, this infant car seat is an excellent choice especially for new parents.