Car seat rules every parent needs to know

Buying a baby’s car seat in today’s day and age is a complex purchase.

Perhaps, even more overwhelming than shopping for a new car.

Part of it is because of the vast variety you will have to choose from, and the other part is making sure you go according to the correct safety regulations.

Here are a few car seat rules every parent should know:

• Buy it brand new

Unlike clothing, furniture and other essentials, baby seats are best bought new, unless you’re familiar with the previous owner’s background and driving habits. Any vehicle which has been in an accident with a baby seat at the back could be faulty. And a faulty seat will make it difficult for you to install properly which will leave you and your child in danger. Safety experts advise that unless you have a clear representation of the previous owners’ car history, you should rather invest in a brand new car seat.

• Get professional help when choosing

New parents are usually unfamiliar with the car seat setup, the legalities behind the seat you buy and how you install it in your car. If it scares you or sounds like a foreign language, it is best to seek advice from a professional who knows how to analyse your vehicle and needs accordingly. This professional needs to be legally certified to be able to help parents fit their chosen seat properly and answer any technical questions regarding their needs. It’s a stressful time, so make sure you get the help that you need.

• Know their size and weight

Of course, you will need to purchase a seat that meets your child’s size requirements. There are plenty of seat options for children, and each with their own weight standards. Do not purchase something that is too small or too big for your child as it could result in a worse injury should something happen while they are in the car. It’s also critical to keep track of their measurements, the older they get.

Here are the three main types of rear-facing chairs to consider for your child:

• Infant seat: As the name suggests, this is for a smaller child or infant baby. These chairs are usually portable, as they are adjusted to also fit your stroller make.

• Convertible: A convertible seat is usually for bigger children and it is not supposed to be taken out of the vehicle. This convertible is perfect for toddlers, which should be used for them to sit rear-facing until they’re at least two years old. Thereafter, the seat can be used forward-facing.

• 3-in-1: A three-in-one seat can be used for a rear-facing, forward-facing and as a booster seat in your child’s younger years. This seat also stays in the vehicle at all times.

• Make sure the straps are tight

The point of a car seat for a child is to ensure they’re tucked in and secure at all times. As a parent, you will need to learn how to adjust and tighten your child’s car seat straps accordingly. Don’t loosen them and let them slack in any way, and make sure that there is a comfortable finger width at their collarbone. Make sure you remove any bulky jackets or padded garments when you get into the car as this will make it especially difficult to strap your child in. During the drive, keep them warm with a blanket.

• Don’t use pillows to prop the seat up

Do not make use of any props to help perk up the seat. When you purchase a high-quality seat brand, the seat is usually designed to adjust to the angle or height so that your child sits in a semi-reclined, rear-facing position. Make sure that the positioning of your baby seat is correct, for example, your baby’s head, shoulders and hips need to be supported properly. He or she must not be able to sit too upright as their head could fall forward in an accident, causing further damage. Make sure that whoever is strapping your child in has read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use and operate it properly.

Another tip to consider is that if your vehicle cannot fit your child’s car seat, you’re going to need to consider buying a new car. Most parents have these things mapped out before the baby arrives, but often times it can be extremely expensive and way over your budget. To see what type of vehicle you can afford, in terms of the car payment calculator, visit a car dealership or broker to see what you can afford.

• Bring the chair with you

If you are visiting public places where your child is required to sit comfortably, make sure you bring your infant seat along with you. It’s certainly not safe to travel with your child on your lap, so make sure you’ve made a plan to transport your baby’s car seat with you.

Final words

There are various factors to take into consideration when you start shopping for a car seat for your newly born or growing child. It’s not as easy as it looks, especially with the legal regulations involved. If you need help, make sure that you consult with a professional and get all the help you need. Always good to have a clear understanding of what is needed before you visit the store to purchase yours.