Original Author: Timothy Wee
Transporting infants and babies in cars is something that cannot be avoided and we as parents are lucky as there are many different types of car seats to choose from. With so many choices at our fingertips, we often feel like it’s overwhelming choosing the correct car seat for our child. In this blog, I would like to share the different types of car seats available on the market and why choosing the correct one is important.
1. Infant Car Seat
The infant car seat is ideal for those ages from 0-2 years old or until the baby reaches the weight limit of the seat. The car seat is also designed to be able to act as a carrier where you can carry your child outside the car. Infant car seats will not be able to carry children who pass the weight and age limit of the car seat so be sure to get a new one when your child gets older. You can buy one here.
2. Convertible Car Seat
If you’re someone who wants to get more out of your car seat, a convertible car seat would be ideal for you. A convertible car seat can support children from 0-3 years old for the rear-facing position but front-facing after 3 years old. As parents, you do not need to buy a new car seat as the baby grows and can reuse the same one. On the downside, a convertible car seat isn’t as portable as an infant car seat and cannot be used as a baby carrier. A convertible car seat is also bulkier and bigger but some may see it as a good thing as it adds extra protection. You can buy one here.
3. 3-in-1 Car Seat
A 3-in-1 car seat is similar to a convertible one but it also has a booster seat functionality. Those of you who would opt for a 3-in-1 car seat will be able to use this seat as your child grows and do not need to buy a new one, perfect for those looking to save some money. You can buy one here.
4. Booster Car Seat
The Booster Car Seat is ideal for children who are old enough to not need the extra bells and whistles of the other 3 car seats. The car seat comes forward-facing only and the minimum weight of children for this car seat is around 13-18 kg depending on the model. This kind of car seat should not be bought by parents with newborn babies as it does not come with the extra support that infants require. This kind of car seat can help children transition from a car seat to sitting without one. Depending on the model it may come with its own belt but children can also use the car’s safety belt depending on their preference. You can buy one here.
Importance of choosing the type of car seat
Each type of car seat comes with its own set of pros and cons that depend on the stage of growth of your child. As parents, we must choose wisely which car seat is ideal for your child as car seats are important when transporting children. Child safety is important and choosing a car seat that provides the optimum safety for your child. Using infant car seats on heavier children may not be ideal as it does not provide the support and protection with an older child needs. Moreover, children need to feel comfortable in their car seat so they don’t feel annoyed and cry for your whole 4-hour journey.
