Every family is unique, which means every family has their own unique needs when it comes to car seats. But even if you’re familiar with your family’s needs, there’s always something new to learn. That’s why we’ve put together this blog post, which will teach you everything you need to know about infant car seats and what to expect next after purchasing one. From installation guidelines to recalls and more, read on to learn everything you need to know about car seats for infants.
Types of Infant Car Seats
Infant car seats come in different shapes and sizes to best fit your child’s growing body. There are three types of infant car seats: rear-facing, forward-facing, and convertible. Rear-facing car seats should be used until your child is at least 1 year old. They protect your child’s head and spine in a crash. Forward-facing car seats should be used from about 6 months old until your child is 2 years old or when they reach the height or weight limit for their seat, whichever comes first. Convertible car seats can be used from about 4 months old until your child is 1 year old or as long as their height or weight limit allows.
Some other factors to consider when selecting an infant car seat include whether you want a harnessed or unharnessed seat, how much room you have in the vehicle, and whether you want a sunshade.
How to Choose the Right Infant Car Seat
When considering what car seat to buy for your infant, there are a few things to keep in mind. The type of car you drive, the weight and height of your baby, and your budget all play a role in which car seat is the best option.
If you’re in the market for an infant car seat that’s convertible, stay away from rear-facing seats. They’re not as safe as forward-facing seats when it comes to collisions. Instead, look for a front- or rear-facing convertible car seat that will grow with your child.
Weight and Height Limits:
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), babies should ride in safety seats until they reach 40 pounds or are at least 20 inches tall, whichever comes first. When choosing a car seat for an overweight or very tall baby, be sure to choose one that has been certified by NHTSA as meeting weight and height limits for that particular model.
Car Seat Types:
There are three main types of infant car seats: convertible seats that can grow with your child; Impact Absorbing Seats (IAs); and Rear Facing Car Seats (RFS). Each has its own benefits and drawbacks:
Convertible Car Seats:
Convertible car seats are great if you want to be able to use them from birth through toddlerhood because they can grow with your child. However, they don’t always fit
How to Install an Infant Car Seat
Infant car seats are designed to be secure and comfortable for the baby. Most models come with a harness that fits snugly around the baby’s torso, and comes with a base that attaches to the car seat. The straps then connect to the base, securing the infant in place. There are a few things you’ll need before installing an infant car seat:
-The car seat itself
-A compatible harness
-A base or adapter
-A chest clip or ring for the harness
To install an infant car seat, first make sure your car has a rear-facing installation option. Check your vehicle’s manual to find out how to access this feature. Next, find a compatible harness and attach it to the child’s waist using the chest clip or ring provided. Finally, attach the base of the car seat to either the vehicle’s rearview mirror or dashboard using the included screws.
How to Safely Remove an Infant Car Seat
When your little one outgrows their infant car seat, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to safely remove them from the car:
1. Check the base of the car seat against your vehicle’s safety specifications. If it doesn’t meet the requirements, then you’ll need to find a new car seat.
2. Locate and open the latch located on the base of the car seat. Keep an arm extended so that your child does not fall out of the car seat as you open it.
3. Remove your child from the car seat by carefully removing them from the base and placing them on their own feet. ensure they do not fall backwards or head-first into traffic while doing this!
4. Clean up any messes made during removal and reinstallation of the car seat in your vehicle.
What to do if an Infant Car Seat Falls Off
If your infant car seat falls off of the vehicle, be sure to take note of the following:
-The seat should not have been engaged in any way (such as being clipped into the base) prior to falling off.
-Make sure that all of the straps are tightly fastened, especially if there is a child in the seat.
-Check for damage to any nearby components (including the car).
If everything looks okay, stop and remove your child from the car seat immediately. If it is determined that there was no physical damage, reattach all straps and try again later when your child is seated in a proper safety restraint.
What If a Child Gets Out of an Infant Car Seat?
If your child gets out of an infant car seat, here is what to do:
1. If the car seat is in the backseat, move it to the front passenger seat.
2. If the car seat is in the front seat, pull it close to you and buckle it in place.
3. Drive to a safe location and stop the vehicle.
4. Remove your child from the car seat and take him or her inside.
Conclusion
After your baby has been safely buckled into their infant car seat and you’ve made sure that the straps are secure, it’s time to check the canopy. Most car seats come with a sunshade that can be lowered when not in use. If you notice any tears or rips in the canopy, bring it to your car seat’s manufacturer for repair or replacement as soon as possible. Not only will this keep your baby shielded from direct sunlight, but also it could potentially reduce their exposure to harmful UV rays.