Self-quarantine measures have made it harder for parents everywhere to get the essential equipment they need to ensure the safety of their children. Despite the fact that social distancing has made it harder to get these products, many parents still need them. Learning how to shop during lockdown for specific items, like baby clothes or car seats, can be frustrating if you try to leap into it headfirst without doing your research ahead of time.
From checking product reviews to thoroughly scouting digital platforms, here’s a guide on shopping for a car seat during lockdown.
First, learn about your car
You might want to rush headfirst into buying a new car seat, but the first thing you should do is review the owner’s manual of your vehicle. Your car is unique and may have specifications you need to be aware of before investing a large sum of money into a car seat. There’s nothing worse for financially-pressed parents than purchasing a product that they can’t even use, so don’t skip this crucial step! Most car seats are secured with either the help of a seatbelt or something termed the LATCH system. If your car uses the LATCH system, your owner’s manual will likely tell you about the details of where you secure the car seat. If not, click on the above link to learn more.
The next step is to identify the right car seat for the job – some are better than others. Ideally, you want a convertible car seat, or one that can adjust with time as your child grows. That way, you won’t be obligated to purchase a new one if your little one enjoys an unexpected growth spurt! Check out Nuna and other brands with great safety ratings, and ensure you always read the reviews left by other customers before investing in any brand! Safetly, not style, is your primary concern. Don’t put ego above the wellbeing of a human life.
Be a good parent and download a helpful PDF with 10 child car seat checks you should know about in order to rely on them. Knowing how to read the car seat’s visual indicators or place the handlebar appropriately could end up saving your child’s life. Finally, understand that cars which haven’t been used regularly may need special maintenance. You should set some time aside to review 13 maintenance tips for your car while it sits idly during quarantine.
Remember not to drive too quickly, to always use your turn signals, and to ensure your child car seat is properly positioned before every trip, and your family will be safer in no time.