A child’s car seat is a crucial part of your child’s safety while in your vehicle. There are many different safety tips and myths out there and I am here to share a few with you today!

As always- please remember I am a first time mom…I am learning, googling and chatting with other moms to learn as I go. I am no expert, what I share is my opinion, my experience and my personal research. Plus, I am sharing with our favorite new convertible car seat, the Maxi-Cosi City Motif Pria 85.

Food in your fridge, makeup in your purse, cleaning products under the sink and your child’s car seat…what do all those products have in common? They all have expiration dates! Most car seats expire after 6 years, however there are additional factors that come into play with car seats. There are product recalls, missing or damaged parts that can contribute to a car seats functionality and effectiveness.

If you are reusing a car seat for a child, ensure that you do your research. Check the manufacture date and model number located on the seat. Most of the car seats have a sticker on the bottom inside of the seats with this information. Plus, who doesn’t have a smart phone these days? Do your online research, ensure you jump on and check reviews from other parents as well.

The number one NO NO that I see so often is the child turned to face forward too soon. This is something I see with my own friends when I scroll through Facebook and Instagram. It makes me want to jump through the phone/computer and say PLEASE NO NO! Most little ones outgrow their seat in height before they outgrow it in weight.

One thing that some people may not be aware of, there is a difference between an infant seat and convertible car seat. If your child is “too tall” or has outgrown their infant seat, the recommendation I give, is to then move the child to a convertible seat, still facing backwards until the child reaches 2 years of age PLUS the recommendation of your child’s pediatrician.   

Harness straps can be fussy, if you’re in a hurry, they are not your friends. However, they are so very important. Always ensure that the straps are not twisted, not loose and the chest strap clip is placed appropriately. The straps are too loose if you are able to pinch them. The chest strap clip should match up with the child’s armpits level.

According to the CDC; “Child restraint systems are often used incorrectly. An estimated 46% of car and booster seats (59% of car seats and 20% of booster seats) are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness.”

When my daughter turned 2 we put her in a forward facing carseat. We got her the new Maxi Cosi seat! We LOVE it! The playful black & white cityscape design is accented with sparkling copper-colored embroidery and a bold, black fabric for an original and fun look. Plus the seat pad is both machine washable and dryer safe, this allows you to get a thorough clean. #momwin