When it comes to mothers and their kids, the bond is unbreakable. Mothers love their kids and will do everything possible to make their kids happy; this includes buying their kids both the necessary things and the not so necessary wants that kids have from time to time. When it comes to buying baby stuff, mothers find themselves overwhelmed by what the market has in store.
Therefore, if you are the kind of mother who would buy every toy in the shop for your kid, then this post is a good read for you. Did you know that there are other baby stuff that you can buy for your kids other than toys? However, whether you are buying a toy, a baby toothbrush, baby toothpaste, baby stroller or baby car seat, the safety of your kids will always be the common denominator.
Well, this post focuses more on keeping your kid (or kids) safe while in the car. Did you know that car accidents are one of the leading reasons why children die around the globe? As a mother (or parent in general), you have to invest in strong car seats for your kids. Whether you are a first time mother or not, you cannot afford not to buy this important equipment for the sake of your kids’ safety.
But considering the fact that there are hundreds of makes and designs of car seats, any new mother would find it challenging when choosing the right car seat for their kids. Fortunately, this post is meant to provide young mothers with tips on how to shop for baby car seats. But first things first, what are the common types of baby car seats today?
- Infant baby car seat
An infant car seat is strictly designed for infants. It is the best car seat for your baby right from birth up until he/she is two years old. Infant car seats are specifically designed to be installed in your car in the rear facing position. Actually, they are not designed to be turned around to a forward facing position.
The most eye catching feature about infant car seats is the fact that they can double up as a baby carrier. You will be able to comfortably carry your baby out of the car to the house or anywhere else.
But as much as this type of car seats are meant to cater for your child for up to twenty four months, some kids will outgrow the seat faster, forcing you to switch to a different type of car seat.
- Convertible baby car seats
Just like infant car seats, convertible car seats can also be used from birth until your child outgrows the car seat. Good news is, convertible car seats can accommodate your baby for more than two years. This is practically getting more use out of your investment.
Unlike the infant car seats, the convertibles can be used in both forward-facing and rear-facing positions. However, ensure that your child is at least two years old before you can put them in a forward facing position.
- Booster baby car seats
This type of baby car seats, just like their name suggests, are designed to boost your toddler’s sitting position and comfort. The booster car seats are strictly designed for babies who are old enough for a forward-facing sitting position.
The most exciting benefit of booster car seats is the fact that they come with a minimum weight requirement of 30pounds and can take up to 80 pounds safely(but of course depending on the model you select).
Now that you have the knowledge of the different types of car seats, be sure to use this tips to make your shopping experience an easy one.
- Consider your overall budget
Car seats are available for any budget; all you have to do is find one that suits you. For instance, convertible car seats are perfect for you if you are willing to spend a good deal of money. However, if you can’t afford a brand new seat for your little angel, a second-hand would also serve you. Good news is, with a second-hand car seat, you won’t have to spend as much.
Therefore, before shopping for one, you have to have an idea of how much you will be able to shell out without straining your finances.
- Check the seat’s ease of use
According to baby experts like kidstoystop.com, you have to buy toddler car seats that you can remove and put back in the car without a problem. Imagine if your child gets a fever and you have to rush them to the pediatrics’ (God forbid) but you don’t know how to install your baby car seat?
Therefore, when buying a car seat, choose one that you can install with ease and also remove with ease when need be. As a matter of fact, convenience should be one top factor that you should consider.
- Consider the age of the baby
As mentioned above, there are different types of bay car seats. Therefore, as a mother, you should buy a car seat that is right for the age of your child. But although there are car sears that are made for toddlers, if you have the money, you can invest in a convertible baby car seat. This car seat is designed to support your child right from birth until they outgrow it and that means that they will be old enough to wear a seat belt.
- Check if the seat straps are adjustable
To ensure that the car seat firmly holds your child, you have to be attentive about the straps. Pay attention to the smallest of details when choosing the straps. Ensure that they are easy to adjust because your baby will grow. The best seats are those that have alteration handles in the back of the seat. Nowadays, there is also a demand for seats that have a pull cord between the baby’s legs because you don’t have to rethread the straps.