Tips For Buying And Installing An Infant Car Seat
Posted on: 11 September 2017
One of the most important things you'll need to buy your baby before he or she is born is an infant car seat. Your baby should always be placed in one while traveling and one will be required before you take your baby home from the hospital. Here are a few tips for choosing and installing an infant car seat so you can provide your baby with the best protection you can afford.
Buy A New Car Seat
Infant car seats are made safer all the time as new things are learned about crash safety. It's best to buy a new car seat so it will have all the latest safety features on it and so you won't buy one that has been damaged. If you need to buy a used one for budget reasons or if a friend or relative gives you a used seat, be sure to check the brand and model thoroughly to look for recalls and to see if it is still safe to use. Also, make sure the seat is not damaged in any way and that it has plenty of protective cushioning and restraint straps. A used seat that is fairly new might be acceptable, but you may want to think twice about using an infant car seat that is several years old.
Choose A Seat For Infants
There are many types of car seats on the market, and you want to buy an infant seat for a newborn. Your baby will outgrow it in a few months, but an infant seat is essential in the first few months of life. An infant seat is rear-facing only and it must be installed in the back seat. It is made to hold your baby in a reclining position since your child won't be able to sit up at first. Once your child has grown past the infant stage, you can replace the infant car seat with an all-in-one or convertible car seat that will work until your child can use a regular seat belt.
Have The Installation Inspected
The car seat will come with installation instructions, but it's important to know that not all seats will fit all kinds of vehicles. Make sure your car or truck will be compatible with a car seat because the seat has to be secured properly to keep your baby safe. Once you have the seat in your vehicle, you can take it for an official inspection to make sure the seat is secure. Some local fire departments or hospitals offer the service of checking infant car seats, and having yours checked can give you peace of mind.
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