As parents, we always want to keep our young ones safe, even if they are beside us in the car. Buying an infant car seat is one of the best ways to keep your child safe while traveling. However, getting the proper infant car seat for your baby or toddler can be pretty confusing, especially if you are a first-time parent. For this reason, we compiled some tips and tricks to ensure you get the best bang for your buck.

What are some important factors to consider when buying infant car seats?

When it comes to buying an infant car seat, there are a lot of things to think about. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of all the fancy bells and whistles. But before spending your hard-earned cash, ensure you get a safe, comfortable infant car seat with easy-to-install car seat belts.

Here are some things to remember when shopping for an infant car seat.

Safety

Look for a seat that meets or exceeds federal safety standards, and check for any recall notices. It’s also an excellent idea to choose a seat that has been crash tested, as this will tell you how well it will hold up in the event of an accident.

The car seat should also be labeled. The car seat labels must include child height and weight restrictions, airbag warning labels for rear-facing car seats, and, if the car seat is approved for use on a plane, a declaration indicating the car seat complies with regulations for use in airplanes.

Size

Additionally, you want to ensure that your seat will fit comfortably in your car and that your baby can sit in it for an extended period without feeling cramped. Be sure to check the weight and height limits of the seat and compare them to your baby’s measurements.

Comfort

Your baby will spend a lot of time in this seat, so get one that offers the best comfort. Look for adjustable straps, padded seat cushions, and head and neck support. Choose a suitable fabric, as some babies have sensitive skin, and you may want a seat with breathable fabric.

Installation

Installing an infant car seat can be a pain, so you’ll choose a seat that’s easy to install. Look for seats with a base that can be easily attached to your car and straps that are easy to adjust. Check whether or not you’ll need to remove the seat from the vehicle frequently, as this can make a big difference in how easy it is to install.

Compatibility

When buying an infant car seat, it’s essential to ensure it’s compatible with your car. Check to see if the seat will fit in the back seat of your vehicle.

Maintenance

Like anything else, infant car seats must be maintained and cleaned. Look for seats that are easy to clean and have removable covers that can be thrown in the washing machine. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and reviews before buying a car seat. This way, you get an idea of how easy it is to maintain and use.

Portability

When buying an infant car seat, you’ll also want to think about how portable it is. If you are frequently traveling with your baby, you’ll want to choose a seat that’s lightweight and easy to carry. Pick a seat attached to a stroller because this can come in handy when you are on the go.

Features

Infant car seats have all sorts of fancy features these days, but it’s important to remember that more is sometimes better. List which features are a priority and which ones you can live without. Some popular features include built-in speakers, cup holders, and WiFi connectivity.

Price

Finally, when buying an infant car seat, it’s crucial to think about how much you’re willing to spend. Prices vary greatly but remember that the most expensive seat isn’t always the best.

“Several studies…indicate that it is more common for Black children…to travel unrestrained or improperly restrained when compared with white children” (CDC).

How to Make Sure Your Child Is Safe?

Right Seat

The first step in keeping your child safe in the car is confirming they’re in the right seat. Infants and small children should be in a rear-facing car seat until they’re at least two years old. This is because, in a crash, a rear-facing seat will provide more support to the head, neck, and spine.

Seat Tight

Make sure the seat is installed tightly. The seat should only move an inch from side to side or front to back. If you’re having trouble getting a tight fit, consider using a seatbelt locking clip to keep it in place.

Harness Height

When your child is old enough to move on from a forward-facing car seat, they’ll need a booster seat. But before letting them ride like a big kid, ensure the harness is at the right height. The harness should be at or above your child’s shoulders. This will keep them secure in the event of a crash.

Harness Tightness

Along with ensuring the harness is at the right height, you’ll also want a tone with that’s tight enough. You should be able to fit no more than one finger between the harness and your child’s chest. This will keep them from sliding out of their seat.

Final Check: Recline Right And Tether Tight

Before hitting the road, double-check that your child’s car seat is reclined at the right angle. A rear-facing seat should be at a 45-degree angle, while a forward-facing seat should be in a more upright position. And remember to check that the tether on your child’s car seat is tight. This will keep the seat from moving too much during a crash.

Keeping your child safe in the car takes a little bit of know-how and some work. Remember to keep these tips in mind so your little one gets all the protection they need.