An infant car seat is one of the most important safety items you will buy for your baby. All new car seats on the American market must meet the same strict safety standards. Although it may be tempting to purchase a used car seat, you may not know whether or not it has been involved in an auto accident or if it has been recalled due to safety defects in the past. The following are some features to consider while looking for perfect car seat for your family.
As previously mentioned, all car seats sold on the American market must meet the same minimum safety standards. However, it is the responsibility of the buyer to be sure that their child meets the height and weight requirements for each individual car seat. These requirements can usually be found on the package and always in the instruction booklet.
There are several types of car seats available, depending on your particular need. There are infant car seats that stay anchored in your car, as well as infant car seats that can be attached and detached from a base that is anchored in your car. Some car seats are made to grow with your child, first installed facing backwards and then installed facing forward when your child is ready. Finally there are booster seats for the older child that are also anchored to the back seat of your car. As always, check the manufacturers weight and height requirements for each type of car seat.
Car seats should be easy to install and properly fit the seat they are being attached to. You should be sure the car seat fits tightly to the seat facing both backwards, and forward if it is a car seat that will be used in the toddler stage. They should also be installed at the proper angle and many car seats do come with a visual guide to help you determine if it is level. Many new cars come with anchors built-in to the back seats allowing you to use locking clips that come with the car seat. Car seats can also be attached using a seat belt as well. Most stores will allow you to try installing your choice to determine proper fit before making a purchase. Many police stations and hospitals will also offer to check your carseat for proper installation as well as to make sure your child is properly installed in the carseat.
With minimum safety standards met, many car seat brands also offer additional safety standards, comfort features and different fabrics to suit your own personal style and budget. Some car seats may offer additional impact absorbing foam, more plush cushioning, detachable cushioned pads for shoulder and crotch straps, 5-point harnesses that are easier to clip and tighten/loosen, plus easily removable car seat covers that are quicker to detach and wash. Many car seat brands are also available in a variety of colors and patterns making it easier to match your car interior or own unique style.
Some of the infant rear-facing car seat brands include the Maxi Cosi Mico Infant Car Seat,
Graco Snug Ride Infant Car Seat and the
Teutonia T-Tario 32 Infant Car Seat. A great forward-facing car seat for toddlers is the
Orbit Baby Toddler Car Seat.
As always, follow the manufacturers height, weight and fit requirements for their car seat and continue to check regularly to be sure your child has not outgrown their car seat. You should also be sure to register your car seat in order to stay informed of any recalls due to safety defects.
