subject: Features to Find in Car Seats [print this page] Features to Find in Car Seats Features to Find in Car Seats
As a new parent, a car seat should be at the top of your to-buy list no exceptions. A parent will need a car seat to take their newborn home from the hospital and car seats are essential for protecting your little one during transport. There are car seat features every parent should be aware of that are essential for safety and function, while there are other features that are considered "frills" a parent should worry about last.
LATCH System
Starting in 2002, all car seats were equipped with the LATCH system. This is a built-in harness system that allows a car seat to be anchored to a vehicle without the use of a seat belt. Look for a car seat that has the LATCH system and especially those that utilize the push-on hooks over the twisted hooks.
Child Harness
A quality car seat will have a built-in five-point harness that secures your child to the car seat. The five-point car seat consists of two leg straps, two shoulder straps and a chest strap. A five-point harness will keep your child secure and ensure that they do not slide one way or the other in the car seat. Brands that carry five-point harness models can include ones such as Britax or UPPA Baby.
Harness Slots
A harness slot allows parents to adjust the height of the five-point harness straps that secure your child in the seat. A car seat that is convertible should have an adjustable harness slot so that your child can grow with the seat. Quality rear-facing seats will also have adjustable harness positions so your infant can grow with the car seat.
Recline
Most car seats, both convertible and rear-facing, will have a recline feature. Some will only have two reclining positions while others will have up to five different positions. The recline is important to help your infant sit comfortably in their car seat and especially when they are napping in the car.
Car Seat Fabric
The fabric is an important part of the car seat. Your baby's skin will come into contact with this material; therefore it should be comfortable, but also maintainable. Ensure that the fabric is easy to clean and very durable. Babies are known for spitting up or spilling on their car seat; therefore you want one that will allow you to wipe up spills and messes easily.
Car seats are essential for your child's safety. They should be the first thing you buy and any decorations or colors should be the least of your worries. Research your car seat thoroughly prior to purchasing it and ensure you are purchasing something safe for your child. Visit retailer sites for UPPA Baby and Britax for buying guide information as well.
