When you bring a new baby into the world, one of the first things you need to do is buy a car seat. And while there are plenty of options out there, it’s important to make the right decision for your child’s safety. Here are five tips to help you make an informed car seat choice:
Why Change Baby’s Car Seat?
When is it time to change my baby’s car seat?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents take their child out of their child’s car seat and into a harness-and-sling system when they reach the weight limit of 20 pounds, or 10 kg. If your child reaches the weight limit before they turn one year old, the AAP recommends that you continue using a harness-and-sling system until your child reaches the one-year mark. After your child turns one year old, you can begin using a rear-facing car seat for longer trips. The AAP also recommends that children ride in the backseat of the car only if they are fully restrained by a safety belt and lap/shoulder belt.
The Different Types of Car Seats
The different types of car seats can be confusing when shopping for one. Here is a guide to help you decide what type is best for your child.
Infant Car Seats: These are the most popular type of car seats and are usually appropriate for babies from birth to about 12 months old. They fit in the front or rear of a vehicle and should only be used until your child outgrows their safety seat.
convertible car seats: These seats convert from a forward-facing infant seat to a toddler-sized seat. They’re typically recommended from about 18 months old through 4 years old, but can be used up to 6 years old if your child remains taller than 44 inches (112 cm).
backless convertible car seats: These seats have no back and are meant for children who cannot sit upright in a standard convertible car seat because of medical conditions or age. The backless design eliminates the need for a harness, but these seats do not recline and should not be used if your child has significant neck or spine issues.
When Should You Change Baby’s Car Seat?
When you first get your baby, you may be inclined to use their car seat for as long as possible. But over time, the car seat may become too small or uncomfortable. Here are four guidelines for when you should change your baby’s car seat:
If the weight limit on the car seat is exceeded: The weight limits on most car seats will increase with age, so it’s important to check the limit from the time your baby was born. If your child is heavier now than at birth, it’s time to upgrade to a bigger car seat.
The weight limits on most car seats will increase with age, so it’s important to check the limit from the time your baby was born. If your child is heavier now than at birth, it’s time to upgrade to a bigger car seat. If there is excessive movement or slippage in the harness: Car seats that use straps and buckles are much more secure if they move smoothly and don’t bind in any way. If there’s excessive movement or if the straps keep slipping off of your child’s shoulders, it might be time to replace the car seat belt system with a more secure one like a harness.
Car seats that use straps and buckles are much more secure if they move smoothly and don’t bind in any way. If there’s excessive movement or if the straps keep slipping off of your child’s shoulders, it might be time to replace the car
Factors To Consider When Making A Car Seat Decision
When you are making a decision about whether or not to buy a car seat, there are a few things you should consider. The size and weight of your baby, the type of car you will be using it in, and the safety features of the car seat.
The weight and size of your baby is one factor to consider when making a decision about which car seat to buy. A convertible car seat can be used for both forwards-and-backwards motion as well as for sideways motion. However, if you are using a rear-facing car seat for your newborn, it is important to keep in mind that their heads will also move from side-to-side. A front-facing car seat cannot support this kind of movement and should be replaced with a forward-facing car seat once your child reaches 35 pounds or more.
Another factor to consider is what type of car you will be using the car seat in. If you plan on using the carseat in a small vehicle such as a Mini Cooper or Fiat 500, then an infant carrier may be the best option because they do not require any installation hardware. If you plan on using the carseat in a larger vehicle such as a Toyota Camry or Chevrolet Impala, then a booster seat may be preferable since they require installation hardware but provide more protection than infant carriers. Car seats that convert from an infant carrier to a booster seat are also available.
One safety feature to look for when purchasing
How To Change Baby’s Car Seat
When do I need to change my baby’s car seat?
It is important to check the car seat expiration date and replace it if it has expired. The car seat should be replaced every 3 years or when the fabric becomes worn. If you have a convertible car seat, it is important to replace the harness when the straps show wear and tear.
Conclusion
Some families find that their car seat fits their child perfectly from birth and continue to use the same seat for years. Other families may find that their child outgrows their car seat or it doesn’t fit well anymore. In either case, it’s important to know when you need to replace your baby’s car seat. The CPSC has a few guidelines you should follow when making this decision: To be safe, always replace your car seat after your child reaches 15 pounds or achieves 55 inches in height, whichever comes first. If you ever notice any of these signs that your car seat is no longer meeting safety standards, it’s time to get a new one: The straps are too tight or too loose The fabric is torn, stretched out, or rips easily The padding is worn down The base of the harness isn’t flat anymore