Factors in Buying an Infant Car Seat

There are eight things to consider when buying an infant car seat. Check out the enumerated list below. Even the best car seat won't be effective unless it is used properly. We also detail a few safety pointers for after the car seat is installed.

1. Make sure that you get the right type of seat for your baby. There are three types of seats, infant, toddler and booster seats.

2. An infant seat should be rear facing because it provides better protection in the case of an accident.

3. Thinking safety, you should decide whether you want a three-point or a five-point harness system. Five-point is considered more safe by many experts, but both offer a great deal of protection.

4. Modern infant car seats should have at least one tether strap on top and possibly two on the bottom. Today's cars are built with an anchor for at least the top strap, newer models will begin to accommodate the bottom strap and soon the baby car seat will be secured only by the straps and not the seat belt.

5. You may want your baby car seat to double as a rocker, carrier or even fit into a stroller frame. Many high-end models are very versatile. Decide what you want your car seat to do for you.

6. Some models have a reclining mode. This can be an advantage when you want baby to sleep.

7. Locking clips are handy to have, especially when trying to strap the baby car seat into an older model car. They will help to keep the belt tight and prevent it from twisting.

8. A detachable seat base will make coming and going without disturbing baby much easier. These are the order of the day on infant car seats. However, this feature is seldom found on toddler seats.

There really is a lot to consider when buying a car seat. A great place to shop for baby car seats is Amazon.com . They have great selection and prices.

Safety Tips

1. Put baby in the back seat. The impact of an airbag can hurt the baby, and the bag itself can smother the child.

2. Be sure to register your new seat. If there is a recall because of a manufacturers defect, you will be informed.

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