Finding the Best Budget Car Seat

Picking a car seat for your new infant is one of the most critical choices you will make for your child's early safety. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that a properly installed child safety car seat in a passenger car can reduce the risk of fatal injury to infants by 71 percent, and to toddlers by 54 percent. In fact, many states and provinces insist that children be transported in an appropriate car seat. Check your local regulations before choosing a car seat, and be aware that you may need to purchase more than one car seat to meet your child's needs as he or she grows.

Car seat retailers offer a variety of car seat choices in different price points. As long as the car seat meets with the governing regulations, it will be safe (even budget models) - although there are different car seat styles and perks that may influence your decision on which car seat model to purchase.

The term car seat can refer to an infant-only car seat, an infant/child car seat, or an infant/child/booster car seat. An infant car seat is rear facing, and has height and weight restrictions of approximately 26 inches or 20 lbs; your car seat manual will provide specific restrictions. Your infant car seat can be installed permanently in your vehicle, or used as a removable carrier with a car seat base - a popular option for parents adjusting to life with a fragile new baby. Infant/child car seats can be used in a rear-facing position for infants, and in forward-facing mode for toddlers. The infant/child/booster car seat is used for older children who are not yet tall enough to use an adult seatbelt safely.

All three car seat configurations are available in most department stores, including discount retailers. It's a good idea to compare the features of each car seat before deciding on a particular car seat model.

Here are some tips to finding a great car seat:

• Look for a car seat with a small 'footprint' to ensure a proper fit in compact vehicles;
• Car seat covers come in a variety of fabrics. Dark colors hide stains well and work well for both boys and girls;
• Many car seat packages include accessories like toys and cup holders. Ensure these extras are worth the higher price the car seat is likely to command;
• Purchasing a 'travel system' with car seat and coordinating stroller tends to be less expensive than buying both pieces separately. This may be good value if you need both a car seat and a stroller.

It is also possible to buy a used car seat, although this should be done with caution to avoid buying a car seat that is too old (they have an expiry date), or one that has been damaged in an accident.

Regardless of whether you buy a new car seat or a used car seat, it is imperative to ensure the car seat meets safety standards, and to check with the manufacturer to determine if there have been any problems or recalls with the car seat you have for your child. Remember, safety first!

Article Source: EzineArticles.com