Chicco KeyFit 35

Thread: "Do we NEED an infant car seat? "

I bought an infant seat and 2 bases. Put 1 base in each car, seat moved as necessary. Baby fell asleep in the car a lot so it was a godsend!

Thread: "Car seat crisis"

I have never had an issue with the key fit at all, and a bunch of my friends have and love it. Are you 1000% positive you have it positioned correctly?

Thread: "Infant car seat recommendation that doesn’t feel cheap?"

There’s a reason that Chicco Keyfit & Graco snugride are routinely rated as two of the best car seats. It’s not just about nice materials, but about ease of install, how it fits a small baby and how well they fit into your vehicle. Also there was just a massive recall of Maxi Cosi car seats if you weren’t aware. Here’s a list of recommended infant seats (with pros and cons for each): https://vicarseattechs.com/our-favourite-seats/infant-seats/ If you want a “fancy” seat, the one I’ve seen recommended the most is Clek Liing.

Thread: "Car seat crisis"

I feel like the problem is deeper than the car seat. I have no issues at all with the key fit 35. I hope you have someone to talk to.

Thread: "3 Across Car Seats"

The Triride is quite wide and doesn’t play well with 3 across. Normally it’s not super efficient to buy a convertible seat for a kid who already forward faces, but the Graco Slimfit3 LX/Graco True3Fit LX (same seat at different retailers; no other version with Slimfit in the name will work) is going to be the best option for replacing the Triride. It has a forward facing seatbelt lockoff that will allow you to achieve a secure seatbelt install in the center seat. Try that first, it may work with the 2 Snugrides but the bases will need to be seatbelt installed (not latch) with the 2 outer car seats pulled as close to the doors as possible. If you can’t get a secure install that way, try Graco’s Snuglock bases for the infant seats for an easier install (they’re compatible with all current Graco infant car seats). If that doesn’t work, the Chicco Keyfit35 works in this configuration with a slimfit3 LX in the center- I’ve personally done that configuration successfully in the same generation of compass. I know it sucks to spend money on more car seats when that’s needed, but it’s cheaper than a new car 🫠

Thread: "What car seat are you getting?"

We have the Chicco Keyfit 35 and love it! Was so easy to install that we triple checked that we did it correctly lol. Definitely plan on getting another Chicco when she outgrows this one.

Thread: "Graco car seat or splurge for Uppababy?"

Chico key fit 35 imo. great safety ratings, affordable.

Thread: "Infant car seat recommendation that doesn’t feel cheap?"

Maxi Cosi seats are huge, they don't fit in many cars and SUVs. We loved our Chicco KeyFit. It fits in pretty much every car, super compact and easy to install. Being "plasticky" is not a criteria for me when choosing a car seat. Being commonly rated as one of the safest seats is much more important to me. Plus my son was into his convertible seat by 6 months old because he hated not seeing outside and he was a winter baby. My daughter stayed in it for 10 months. Also it is not recommended for babies to sleep in their car seats, so we never really used the stroller adapter except for doctor's appointment. I loved the stroller bassinet, so so so much more comfortable and my kids napped well whatever the season.

Thread: "Choosing car seats"

We used Chicco Keyfit with our first and definitely using again with our 2nd. We kept a base in each car (can be used without, though) and had the stroller the car seat locks in to, just set the carseat on it and it locks . So easy and pushes like a dream. Very high ratings. I would definitely recommend

Thread: "Tell me your car seat recommendation!"

Convertible carseat or infant carseat? The most popular expensive option that's not rotating is the Nuna Rava. Very very easy to install and clean. For budget friendly options I think the Graco extend 2 fit is very popular. Not as easy to set up and what not but not a bad budget option. When it comes to rotating Convertible seats, a lot of people like the Evenflo 360 for its price. Problem with rotating carseats is the mechanism can be finnicky (depending on brand), and the rear facing weight/height limit being lower than most regular convertibles, but not all of them. When it comes to infant carseats it really depends on what stroller your getting, and if it's compatible with certain strollers to be used as a travel system, etc. I think the most popular option when it comes to premium brands is the Nuna Pipa RX. To more budget friendly brands I think Chicco has a good safety rating with the Chicco key fit 35.

Thread: "Infant car seats - what did you like?"

We have the Chicco Keyfit and it’s great. I bought solely based on the safety ratings. The safety ratings are highest for Chicco and Nuna, and I believe Graco is up there too, but not quite as high as the other two. Doona was quite low. Also, as for others saying they bought the Uppababy Mesa for the stroller — I have the Uppababy Cruz stroller and I bought a car seat connecter for the Keyfit. It works perfect, and was a couple hundred dollars cheaper lol

Thread: "5 months pregnant, just found out 3 car seats will not fit in my CUV. Can’t afford a bigger car. Freaking out "

The Graco Slimfit definitely fits in my Outback! I could also do 2x keyfits with the Keyfit 35 base and the Slimfit in the middle.

Thread: "Infant car seat vs. all in one car seat"

We got the Chicco Trio Bravo stroller “travel system” which came with the infant car seat & base and stroller. The infant seat clicked into the stroller and it was so convenient. We bought a second base for the infant seat so we could use it in both of our cars. We also got a convertible car seats (again one for each car) for when our son was older but we didn’t switch until he got too heavy to carry in the infant seat around 7 months. At that point we’d throw the stroller or the carrier in the trunk and transfer the little guy whenever we got where we were going, or carry him inside when we got home.

Thread: "Overwhelmed - Stroller Recommendation [ON]"

I got a Bumbleride Era and absolutely love it. Using it on my second baby now. I loved the handling, lower price than uppababy, that it accommodates a newborn without attachments, and that the seat can face you or face out. Turns out they have great customer service too. I did something silly and broke the seat frame. They had a new one at my door in 2 days no questions asked. Don't get caught up in needing a travel system. You need a car seat and a stroller. Canadian car seat techs overwhelmingly recommend the Clek Liing (pricy), graco snugride, or Chicco keyfit. You can often purchase an adapter to use any of these car seats in a stroller. I purchased an adapter ($90) and never took it out of the box. Car seats aren't properly leveled in strollers so it's really not recommended to have your baby in the car seat outside of the vehicle. You can get a Bumbleride Era for $1000 and the graco or Chicco car seats for $200-$400 depending on which one and whether you get it on sale. The graco is only $200 on Amazon right now.

Thread: "Chicco KeyFit 35 vs Uppababy Mesa V2 (and strollers)!"

We have a vista v3 + chicco keyfit 35 + adapter and while we haven’t used the adapter yet (he’s 5 days old!) we love everything. We love: - the warranty on uppa products -the safety ratings on the seat -the price point on the seat (they run really good sales all the time but we fit ours for $150 at a closing buy buy baby) - the ease of install on the seat + base We’ve done to visit baby’s great grandpa and the pediatrician for car seat use and have no complaints. We’ve done daily neighborhood walks and again, no complaints! We have him in the bassinet attachment for walks and daytime naps too.

Thread: "Chicco KeyFit 35 vs Uppababy Mesa V2 (and strollers)!"

Not answering your real question but for what its worth, we have the Chicco Corso LE with the KeyFit 35 and so far we love it. Wegot the newborn insert which has been great, I’m also 5’0” and personally have no issue with the height.

Thread: "Uppababy Mesa vs Chicco Keyfit 35 [CA]"

Have you had a chance to try them out in person? I was comparing between the same 2 car seats and in my mind I was favouring the Chicco Keyfit. But after going into a Snuggle Bugz and trying both on the Uppababy stroller, we ended up with the Mesa v2. For the following reasons: - The convenience of the compatibility (don’t forget the adapter costs money) and in the store the Chicco never felt like it attached to the adapter very well. - The sunshade on the Mesa was far better designed. The Chicco shade seemed to get stuck under the handle and stuck on the top of the car seat. - The only factor that favoured the Chicco for us was the material felt softer and the padding seemed well designed. But both were good. Although the crash rating might be better, all car seats need to pass a minimum safety test in Canada. I don’t think any brand new car seat you buy can be considered unsafe.

Thread: "Best Infant Car Seat?"

I went with the highest rates in consumer reports and that was the chicco keyfit at the time. This was 2019, I really do suggest looking at consumer reports

Thread: "Small car carseat [on]"

The Clek Liing and Chicco Keyfit are the smallest on the market (most compact base and seat). Definitely check them out. The mesa is quite a large/bulky seat so definitely not ideal for a small car.

Thread: "Practical: Doona, Graco Snugride, or Chicco Keyfit"

I went with the Chicco Keyfit 35 because of its ratings on consumer report. It was rated the second safest car seat and had more compatibility options than the highest rated one.

Thread: "Difference between expensive infant seats and less expensive infant seats"

I've definitely noticed that different seats have different feeling harnesses. I was very pleased with our Chicco Keyfit that we had for my daughter. I'm for sure going to go try a bunch of them but you know, I like to narrow things down a little beforehand!

Thread: "Should I forego the infant car seat for a convertible seat?"

For OP: if you go the infant seat route, do your research. Ours goes up to 35 lbs/32 inches tall, so it looks like we’ll make it to a year (which is totally worth it for the convenience vs the cost of two bases and a seat). Plus it gave us the freedom to choose a convertible seat without worrying whether it’s the most infant-friendly but fits well in our car and is versatile in other ways. Because just because they say it should fit a newborn doesn’t mean it fits them well.

Thread: "What infant car seat did you guys buy or will buy ?"

We got the chicco keyfit 35.. I actually really like how it looks haha. That said a few reasons we got it. Easy install, good crash test results and pretty light.

Thread: "So torn on infant car seat - Uppababy or Chicco?"

The Keyfit35 (over the 30) is incredible! I tell everyone about this car seat!

Thread: "Uppababy Mesa vs Chicco Keyfit 35 [CA]"

The Chicco often goes on sale on Amazon and Best Buy, if you aren’t in a hurry. I got it for $250, although that was late 2022. I think kids tend to outgrow the mesa quickly, if I remember correctly.

Thread: "Just got mom-shamed for using a MaxiCosi (WHYY???)"

I’m just here to say that the Chicco Key Fit is the highest safety rated car seat There are lots of articles when you google. Chicco Keyfit is usually in a battle with Graco for #1. Also, the chick picking a fight with you is weird and sad you should ignore her.

Thread: "Uppababy Mesa vs Chicco Keyfit 35 [CA]"

Unfortunately the Keyfit 35 isn’t available on Amazon right now and is not on sale at Best Buy. Baby is due next month so not much time left ☹️ I’ve read about the Mesa being outgrown quickly but seeing as both seats have the 32” height maximum, I don’t understand how that works.

Thread: "Car seat crisis"

I loved our Keyfit! The entire inside is removable to wash, I did it myself. It seems like maybe it’s not positioned correctly, seconding others recommending your local fire station or hospital for a check on the fit of the seat!

Thread: "Chicco KeyFit 35 vs Uppababy Mesa V2 (and strollers)!"

We also love our Corso/Keyfit combo!

Thread: "Car seat crisis"

You’re not wrong, definitely some PPD happening here. I feel incredibly incompetent trying to figure out the most basic piece of getting around with my baby, and I’m usually the person who knows how to do everything

Thread: "Car seat stuck between Uppababy Aria and Chicco KeyFit 35"

We have zero chin to chest issues with the aria. I think the chin to chest was mostly with mesa. We love the aria and can’t imagine carrying something heavier or not easily interchangeable with the stroller

Thread: "Infant car seat vs. all in one car seat"

We got a Chicco “travel system” (Keyfit 35 seat, bases, & Bravo stroller)…definitely no regrets; it’s so easy popping him into the car, out of the car into the stroller, etc. Kiddo hates being put in the seat so the less we have to transfer him, the better. He’s also 50/50 whether he’ll tolerate being worn in a wrap or carrier, and when he’s done in those he is DONE. So I don’t risk that in stores haha Edit: He’s 18+lbs now though so we may start leaving the seat in the car soon and just going straight to stroller, since it has a 5-point harness and he’s almost sitting up on his own

Thread: "What car seat are you getting?"

Yay! This is the one we decided on.

Thread: "Car seat stuck between Uppababy Aria and Chicco KeyFit 35"

It’s $350 now and I’ll get an extra 15% off with Amazon registry bringing it to $300. Chicco fit 35 ($250) with the Kohls registry discount will bring it to $212. So with less than $100 difference it’s the only reason I’m considering it. Definitely wasn’t when it was $400+

Thread: "Graco car seat or splurge for Uppababy?"

Plus the Cruz has an [adapter](https://uppababy.com/accessories/strollers-accessories/vista-cruz-chicco-adapter/) for Keyfit carseats!

Thread: "Experiences with the rotating Chicco Fit360 car seat? "

You might have already bought this car seat or another one but we had to have our infant seat (keyfit 35) behind the passenger seat because we have a rav4 and my husband and I are decently tall and we couldn’t fit any other way. We have the fit360, and it takes up the exact same amount of room! I didn’t have to move the seat any.

Thread: "Uppababy Mesa vs Chicco Keyfit 35 [CA]"

The chicco seems to have a deeper bucket to me but I’ve only used the mesa once when I had to borrow a friends

Thread: "Car seat stuck between Uppababy Aria and Chicco KeyFit 35"

I’m 99% sure you can install the Chicco Keyfit without the base, using the seatbelt. It’s the same as the Aria in that regard.

Thread: "Practical: Doona, Graco Snugride, or Chicco Keyfit"

We're really liking our Chicco Keyfit 35! Went with the 35 because I think we'll be able to use it a little longer, probably until 12-18 months. We have an Uppababy Cruz and the adapter for the Chicco carrier.

Thread: "Chicco KeyFit 35 vs Uppababy Mesa V2 (and strollers)!"

We have this combo too and it has been great so far. My son turns 6 months on Sunday and we have been using the big kid seat (idk what it's actually called lol) for about 2 months and he is loving it! I am 5'2" my husband is 6' we haven't had any issues with handle bar height

Thread: "Chicco KeyFit 35 vs Uppababy Mesa V2 (and strollers)!"

We had a similar set up. Keyfit 35 with Vista V2. I was also drawn to the Keyfit’s high safety ratings. The stroller adapter is a bit annoying to remember and keep track of, but it is nice that it can fold up with the stroller.

Thread: "Experiences with the rotating Chicco Fit360 car seat? "

Just came across this thread - did you end up getting this car seat ? I’ve been needing to upgrade our keyfit35 and I was going crazy researching to decide between a chicco convertible or one of the rotating seats. I was thrilled to discover chicco now has a rotating one ! I just pulled the trigger and ordered it (we love our chicco infant seat!!). My only worry is we have a sedan and the backseat space isn’t large so hoping it’s okay. We’ve already had to have the infant seat behind the passenger because of legroom for the driver

Thread: "Chicco KeyFit 35 vs Uppababy Mesa V2 (and strollers)!"

I cannot speak to the stroller as we had a hand me down stroller and baby wore more than used the stroller early on, but we LOVED our Chicco Keyfit 35 and bought a base for each car. I would definitely purchase the Chicco Keyfit 35 again if given the choice.

Thread: "How often does Uppababy Mesa V2 go on sale? [bc]"

My car is incredibly tiny and the mesa v2 and the Chicco keyfit 35 are the only 2 that fit really well. So I'm not sure what you mean by bulky? Either way I bought it last night since I heard uppababy almost never goes on sale

Thread: "What car seats are we using?"

Yes very true - the largest I can think of is the Keyfit 35 which is 32 inches but a weight of 35 lbs. We use Keyfit 35 but are switching to a convertible

Thread: "Infant carseat recommendations [ON]"

Thanks! I did and the cpst said I need a compact seat and menioned the Liing, Graco Snugrides, and the Chicco keyfits

Thread: "Infant carseat recommendations [ON]"

We were going between the Clek liing and the Chicco KeyFit 35 - ultimately went with the Chicco since it was compact fit into our stroller and was about $200 cheaper! I honestly love it so much and have zero regrets, the thing is your baby could outgrow the infant car seat at three months or at a year you never know, for me, the extra feature of having a load leg wasn’t worth the extra $200

Thread: "Car seat installation seems too easy."

We have a NICU nurse friend and she checked out Keyfit bases for us. Apparently you are NOT supposed to use both belt and latch to secure the base, just one or the other. Apparently using both can CAUSE problems if you are in an accident. Latch is considered better than using a belt.

Thread: "talk me out of the nuna car seat... or into it!"

I personally didn’t hate it but also didn’t love it. I had the Keyfit 35 cleartex zip. The elastics for the zip canopy always came off. It was extremely annoying, and it was HEAVY. I felt pretty uncomfortable hand carrying it, especially with its weight. And the straps on it were super annoying to get a decent fit. They’re super thick, and always looked like my babies weren’t tight in it but they were. I did like how it was safe, and the seat at the time went up to 35lbs. Plus the no-rethread harness is super nice. I’m due next week with my 3rd and had to get a new infant seat since the mice got into our Chicco Keyfit. We ended up getting the Nuna Pipa RX and I’m pretty pumped for the weight difference (I make large babies haha) and the shape of the handle. The squareness of the handle seems like it will be more comfortable on my elbow when I have to hand carry? Idk, I hope it’s helpful at least! Lol

Thread: "Infant Car Seats"

We went with the Chicco KeyFit 35 seat and paired it with their Corso Stroller. The KeyFit 35 seat is one of the safest car seats on the market. Tons of third party testing and research that we found helped guide us to this decision. We originally bought a Graco seat/stroller, but returned it because the infant insert was paper thin. The infant insert for the Chicco one is much thicker and very supportive. We love the stroller too! Easily pops up and collapses, car seat can click directly into stroller, and comes with a toddler seat/bassinet option as well.