A car seat is an extremely crucial investment that you make for your little one.
It is not a spontaneous purchase. You cannot make it on the basis of “do whatever feels right to you”. Car seats come with their own set of rules and regulations, which keep altering as your child grows. Thus, you cannot just wing it when it comes to buying a car seat.
You need to be well aware of what you are looking for, depending upon your kid’s age and other factors. Car seats by Maxi-Cosi New Zealand are a good place to start.
Top 4 Factors to Consider when Shopping for a Car Seat
As a parent, you need to make a wise decision about your child’s car seat. Your kid and your car should both be considered.
We have summed up some factors that will help you in choosing the right car seat for your child. Keep reading.
1. Age and Height of your Child
Car seats are segregated into different groups, depending upon your child’s height and age:
- Baby car seats
- Highback booster seats
- Car seats
Baby car seats are designed for newborn babies and can be used for up to 12 months. Car seats or toddler car seats can be used up till 4 years of age. If your child’s height grows quicker, you might want to switch to highback booster seats. These are designed for kids up to 12 years.
2. Secure
Always look for a car seat that is secure. Do your research extensively before you step outside to make a purchase. Read the reviews and make a pick from one of the best sellers. A reputable company is the best to rely on. The car seat should have security features and must be easy to install too. If the seat does not come with clear instructions, it is better to choose another one.
3. Side Impact Protection
Side impact protection is a very important feature to look for when buying a car seat. Almost 25% of the accidents on the road are side impacts. Therefore, protection in this specific area of your vehicle is very crucial.
4. Budget
There are innumerable options for car seats in the market these days and making a choice can be daunting. The best way to streamline your options is to set a budget. Research the cost of different car seats and determine how much you would have to spend on getting a good one. Remember, do not overspend as your child will grow their very first car seat within the first 12 months. Look for something promising yet affordable.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Car seats are a considerably more challenging investment to make than all other baby items that you shop for. However, with a little planning and research, you can easily make the right choice for your kid. Lastly, make sure that the car seat you invest in is locally tested and approved.
