The evolution of car seats over the last 100 years has been truly remarkable. It was once acceptable to just put your infant in a basket in the front seat, or have a few simple straps or bars keep your toddler in the same general area of the back seat. Granted, people drove at significantly slower speeds and shorter distances back then. But still, it’s startling to see how far engineering has come.
Nowadays, car seats can range from basic straps to mini thrones with cup and device holders. There are so many to choose from, and you can pay hundreds of dollars for designer brands. How do you know which is the right car seat for your child?
Are Expensive Car Seats Safer?
Parents are easily guilted or scared into purchasing a luxury car seat because they want to do everything they can to protect their child in case of a car accident. Although this is understandable reasoning (because, generally speaking, anything more expensive is better than a cheaper alternative!), the more expensive car seats are not necessarily safer.
All car seats must meet rigorous safety standards, regardless of the price. If you don’t want to indulge in a luxury car seat, you can rest assured that your child will be safe, regardless of the price tag.
What Is Important in a Car Seat?
If the price doesn’t indicate a quality car seat, then what is important?
First, parents should do their due diligence in researching car seat brands. Read through the good and bad reviews. Check if there have been recalls or lawsuits. See if other consumers have your same model car and if the car seat works well in their car.
After you’ve ensured the car seat is safe, you can move on to preferences. Countless details can make a difference between you loving and hating your car seat.
For instance, if you frequently move the car seat between different vehicles, you probably want a car seat that is smaller, lighter, and with quick anchor releases. However, if you frequently travel long distances, you might want a car seat with extra padding, or a place to hold drinks, snacks, and toys.
If you’re looking to save money, you might want to invest in a convertible or all-in-one car seat. Although these are more expensive upfront, they grow with your child so you don’t have to get new car seats at every stage.
Does My Child Need a Rear-Facing Car Seat?
Current car seat safety standards state that children should be in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least two years of age. They must also be at least 40 pounds or 40 inches tall. If your child exceeds the manufacturer’s height or weight limit, it’s time to upgrade to a new car seat.
Although your child can turn front-facing if these standards are met, there shouldn’t be a rush to turn them front-facing (unless they exceed the manufacturer’s guidelines).
Children in rear-facing car seats are 50% less likely to sustain a severe injury and have a 5.6% lower mortality rate than children in front-facing car seats. Many sources encourage children to stay rear-facing for as long as possible, even into their early elementary years, because of the improved safety. While this may not be necessary, it at least emphasizes that parents shouldn’t rush to turn their child front-facing.
When Can I Turn My Child Front-Facing in a Car Seat?
Once your child is older than two years of age and is at least 40 inches tall or weighs at least 40 pounds, then you can consider changing your child to a front-facing car seat. However, you must purchase a new, front-facing car seat; you cannot simply turn your infant car seat around.
Install Correctly and Get It Checked
Of course, the safety of the car seat is dependent on the installation. Carefully read (and reread!) the instruction booklet and plan plenty of time to get it just right. Remember, your child’s safety is in your hands. This is one area you don’t want to get “mostly right.”
If you’re installing a car seat for an upcoming newborn baby, be sure you install it before you go to the hospital! Hospitals won’t let you be discharged without a car seat, and you don’t want to be installing it for the first time when you’re sleep-deprvied.
If this is your first time installing a car seat, it’s best to get it checked at your local fire station. Firemen routinely perform car seat checks and will give you feedback and tips so you can feel confident re-installing the car seat in the future.