What to Look for When Shopping For a Baby Car Seat
What to Look for When Shopping For a Baby Car Seat
The first time you place your baby in a baby car seat to drive somewhere is a life-changing moment. Your focus is not only on the safety of yourself while driving, but also on your most important passenger, your child. Infants are more vulnerable and at risk of injury and death in a car crash, so selecting the right baby car seat is crucial.
It is recommended by The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Plunket NZ that children ride in a rear-facing car seat until they are 2 years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer.
All car seats in NZ must comply with either Australian/New Zealand Standard 1754, USA FMVSS213 with NZ standards S-mark, or European safety standard (see NZTA website regarding in-built child restraints in Japanese vehicles).
It is worthwhile purchasing your infant car seat long before you actually have your baby. This will give you plenty of time to fit it correctly and also give you time to practice using the harness. At Britax, we have a wide selection of Britax, Safe-n-Sound and Steelcraft baby car seats and convertible child car seats that can be used from birth.
Infant Carriers/Capsules
Infant carriers are a convenient option when your baby is brand new. They are suitable from birth to at least six months, or even over twelve months depending on the height and weight of your child. They are specifically designed to cocoon your child in the capsule and secure them safely with an easy to adjust harness with high side walls providing maximum protection.
Infant carriers are lighter than convertible car seats, come with a carry handle and typically snap in and out of the base, which is installed in your car. They may also come with a canopy to protect your baby from the sun. Perfectly designed for easy transportation, the Britax travel system range of infant carriers can be partnered with one of our pram travel systems, making any journey out and about with your precious bundle an easy and enjoyable experience.
Convertible Car Seats
Convertible car seats are designed to grow with your baby. The Britax and Safe-n-Sound range can be used in the rear facing mode from birth, and then converted to forward facing mode. When to turn and when the car seat is outgrown differs by model, so consult your instruction manual.
VariousBritax and Safe-n-Sound convertible child car seats also come with an added infant safety cushion, designed specifically to provide increased support and protection for your newborn. This can be removed once your child outgrows it. When it comes to babies and small children, mess and spills are never far away. A removable cover on any child car seat is essential so it can be washed regularly. Also look for headrests that can be adjusted and a harness that is easy to operate.
To learn more about theBritaxand Safe-n-Sound range of baby car seats and child car seats, visit our product pages