There’s only one safe way to transport a newborn around in a car and that’s using a. car seat. But then, how do you know wha to look out for? Here is your guide.
Car seats are not only important, they are also relatively more expensive than other baby items you’ll be buying. Therefore, when choosing a car seat, you need to be careful to ensure you buy the right and safe one.
These basic tips to make the search a little easier.
1. Choose what is priority
Newborn car seats come in two kinds; rear-facing baby seat and the convertible seat. If your priority is not having to invest in another car seat in the first two years, then opt for a convertible seat which is rear-facing initially and can be turned forward later. The down side to the convertible is that it can not be taken out of the car to carry your baby around. If your preference is a car seat you can move around with, then go for the rear-facing infant seat. Buying a convertible car seat saves money because it lasts through toddlerhood, and it’s completely sound in terms of safety. While buying a rear-facing seat is more mobile and convenient.
2. Match your car seat with your car
Research says that child car seats and vehicle seats don’t align properly more than 40 percent of the time. If you don’t drive a large car, don’t go for the bulkiest and biggest car seat. Fitting perfectly into car car is key.
3. Go for a new seat to be safe
As parents we want to know which car seat is safest and even though all car seats that are on the market have been tested and approved for safety standards, some are recalled. How do you know if the hand me down car seat is safe for use and not one of the recalled batches? This is why it is best to buy a new car seat if you can afford it and also make sure it is from trusted vendors who won’t sell recalled products.
4. Consider a travel system if you’re trying to save
If you want a convertible car seat that can grow with your baby but also crave the flexibility of a movable car seat, go for a travel system. This is usually an infant seat and a stroller sold together at a discount. This will save you some cost.
5. Prioritize the most important features
Ensure you buy a safe car seat that has a 5-point harness which includes the two waist straps, two shoulder straps and a strap in-between the legs that meet in the middle. Also the car seat should have extra padding at the sides of the baby’s head and a compatible latch system.
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