Top Ten Considerations Before Buying Car Seats
All new parents are bombarded with an inventory of necessities before the baby comes, which often requires spending time and energy perusing a huge range of productsconsuming and overwhelming, thanks to the joy of the internet. The good news is that you can comfortably narrow down your choices by looking at the most essential considerations, and that's where we're here to help!
State Safety Laws
Compatibility With Vehicle
Before you go looking for the car seat, you should determine in what car it will rest. Trucks, especially pick-ups, are not ideal. You'll want a car with a backseat of about a 45 degree. Also make sure the type of seat belts you have can be used to restrain the car seat properly.
Status on Recall List
What constitutes a recall? Most recalls are issued because the car seat has failed in crash worthiness. Other major reasons include parts that may be choking hazards, incorrect labeling, and flammability. When a car seat is recalled it is supposed to be removed from store shelves. However, you could be searching for a car seat right as a recall is being issued out. If this is the case it may not have been removed yet. If you have a certain brand in mind, go to the website and look up the recalled models before you head out to shop. If you don't have a set brand in mind you can sometimes look up recalled models on your local news site. They will usually feature an updated list.
Type
3Point Harness?
The harness on the car seat should be a major consideration. A 3point harness buckles the child around the chest and hips.
Comfort and Design
Now that you got all of the safety concerns out of the way it's time to start focusing on other factors, like padding and fabric. You want to pick something your baby will be comfortable in. The base and shell materials should be sturdy but the seat should be soft. Is the design compatible with your car, in other words, does the car seat fit properly or is it too bulky? Will the seat allow for your baby to fit if they're bundled up in winter clothes? Is it compatible with winter accessories like blankets and covers? Does it have a canopy or mesh sheet for summer to prevent sun and bug bites?
Travel Systems
Aesthetics
* Don't buy unnecessary accessories. Unless the car seat manual specifically states so, most accessories are not approved crash-tested products.
* Does the safety strap have padding so it is soft for your baby?
* Cover fabrics can be used to boost the style of the car seat. Many are used also for cold weather months to keep your baby snuggled and warm.
* What about toys? Well, things your baby can hold that are separate from the car seat are wonderful. Try to avoid attachments. In case of a crash, attachable toys may prove to be unsafe.
Cost
The most expensive car seat is clearly the safest, right? Wrong. You can be cost effective and safe when choosing a car seat.
'''Buying Used''': If you can afford to, try not to buy used car seats. You don't know how old they are, if they have a recall against them, or if there was something defective in the model. Used car seats could have taken quite a beating and you don't know if they're the safest they could be. If you do buy a used car seat, check the base for cracks and other damage. Make sure it can be latched in properly. Also, make sure the straps and buckles all work. Is there tearing in the fabric? All of these things are important when considering whether to buy used or new.
'''Cost Vs. Safety''': Car seats can get reasonably costly. The lower end costs around $50$100 range. The expensive ones can go for $200+. A concern for many is how much safety you're risking when choosing the cheaper option. Try not to view the purchase as a black and white scenario. Sometimes the car seats are expensive because they're the latest model. A model a year older is still within reason, as long as it meets all the current safety requirements. Other reasons for their cost could be size (weight and height), fabric, and design. If those factors aren't as important to you, then no need to worry.
Brand
The most popular and safe brands are:
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Chicco: This Italian brand makes reliable infant car seats.
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Combi: Combi car seats are more stylish in style and design.
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Evenflo: This brand is affordable and still provides strong harnesses.
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Graco: Graco car seats are known for their reliable safety features and affordability. They make a large variety.
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Peg Perego: This upscale Italian brand makes car seats that are often travel system compatible.
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