How do you find car seat safety ratings?
Any parent will tell you that they want the best and safest car seat for their baby. While this is a universal concept, finding that perfect seat is not always an easy task. Your first option is to search printed sources such as the Consumer Reports Buying Guide, or read some of the safety information manufacturers provide. These sources will give you an overview of safety ratings from many of the leading car seats.
Another option is by doing online research. Many child safety and even law enforcement websites will list the mandated safety requirements and provide links to other sites selling top safety products. For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists all recalls on the latest car seats, which will give you an idea of what brands to not purchase.
You can also check out “Car Seat Reviews“ on our website! It gives a review, description, comments from others and a rating at the bottom!
With so many types of car seats, how do I pick the right one for my child?
Going to a store and looking at the many different versions of car seats can be a confusing task. You will find that prices start from as low as twenty dollars and rise up to as much as a few hundred. The first thing you need to do is pick the right size and weight range for your child. Next, look at state car seat laws to determine whether a forward facing, rear facing, or booster seat is right for your child. For instance, some states require a five-point harness on children up to age 3.
If the state law is not specific enough for your concerns, consult the American Academy of Pediatrics for their recommendations. They recommend that infants under 1 year of age always ride in a rear facing car seat. Finally, try out several models at local stores to see which car seats fit your child, fit your budget, are the safety rating you desire, and are easy to get your child in and out of with relative ease.
To find the safest car seats for a great price check out our site!
