You need to know that there are a large number many variables involved in determining this question. Below you will find some guidelines to assist you make a decision.
Car seats for children come in three different styles. The three configurations are rear-facing, forward-facing and convertible all are safe products, but intended for different stages of a child’s development. A good example of a convertable car seat is the Britax Boulevard.
Rear-facing seats are safest but are usually used for infants that weight less then 20 pounds and not more then one year of age. However , if your infant reaches 20 pounds before his/her birthday they should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least one year old. Just be sure to read the manufacturer’s recommendations. Rear-facing seats should never be used in the front seat of a car with air an air bag on the passenger side.
Once a child has out grown their rear-facing car seat it is time to transition or convert to the forward facing style. When shopping for forward-facing safety seats, the best choice is one that will accommodate your child as long as possible without being forced to replace the seat.
A wonderful example of a safe yet comfortable seat for you child is the Britax Companion car seat.
Is There Room In Your Vehicle?
Not all child safety seats can be properly installed in every seating positions of every automobile. Be sure to read both the child safety seat and vehicle instructions. In general, a correctly installed child safety seat should not move more than an inch to either side or forward.
Will You Install the Seat Correctly? What About Proper Instilation?
Different child safety seats vary in design and features. It is important to choose one that you and your child are happy with, and that you will correctly install and adjust for every ride.
The safest child safety seat is the one that best fits in your automobile , is the right size for your young one and is used correctly each time. All safety seats manufactured in the U.S. are required to comply with the same strict safety standards. Not all car seats are the same size, the Britax Companion car seat is quite bulky and may not fit in all automobiles.
You Should Avoid Used Child Safety Seats
A child safety seat that has been involved in an accident may have sustained structural damage that is not easy to see. Seats involved in a crash should be replaced. Auto insurance may cover the price of replacing your damaged safety seat for your child.
It is always the best policy to use a new car seat. That is the only way to guarantee you have a safe seat.Should you know someone that is willing to sell you a used car seat , it is vital that you to get a full history of the car seat from the previous owner(s). Other important questions are: Has the seat been involved in a crash? Has a recall been issued for the seat? Is the seat too old (more than 6 years)? Does the seat have all the necessary parts?
You can use these guidelines to help ensure that you aquire the safest seat possible fory you child.