As parents, keeping our little ones safe in the car is a top priority. But did you know that even with the best intentions, many parents unknowingly make mistakes when using car seats? A poorly installed or improperly used car seat can put a child at risk in the event of an accident.
Here are the top 10 most common car seat mistakes and how to fix them!
Car Seat Mistakes Parents Make
1. Loose Harness Straps
Mistake: The straps are too loose, allowing too much movement.
Fix: Perform the pinch test after securing your child, try pinching the strap at their shoulder. If you can pinch any fabric, tighten the straps!
2. Chest Clip Positioned Incorrectly
Mistake: The chest clip is too low or too high.
Fix: The chest clip should be level with your child’s armpits. This keeps the harness in the right position in case of an impact.
3. Using Bulky Coats or Snowsuit
Mistake: Dressing your child in a puffy coat before buckling them in.
Fix: Bulky clothing creates extra space, making the harness ineffective. Instead, remove the coat, buckle the child in properly, and place a blanket over them for warmth.
4. Switching to Forward-Facing Too Soon
Mistake: Turning a child forward-facing before they reach the weight/height limits.
Fix: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping children rear-facing until at least age 2, but ideally as long as possible within the seat’s limits.
5. Loose Car Seat Installation
Mistake: The seat moves more than one inch from side to side or front to back.
Fix: After installing, give it a firm shake at the base. If it moves more than an inch, tighten the seatbelt or LATCH system.
6. Using the Wrong Seat for the Child’s Age & Weight
Mistake: Transitioning to a booster seat or seatbelt too early.
Fix: Follow the height and weight limits for each stage before upgrading. Rear-facing > Forward-facing > Booster > Seatbelt.
7. Not Reading the Car Seat Manual
Mistake: Assuming all car seats are installed the same way.
Fix: Every car seat model is different! Read the manual and follow manufacturer instructions carefully.
8. Improper Recline Angle for Infant
Mistake: The car seat is too upright for a newborn, causing head slump.
Fix: Use the recline angle indicator on the seat and adjust as needed, especially for rear-facing infants.
9. Using an Expired or Secondhand Car Seat
Mistake: Using a car seat past its expiration date or one that’s been in a crash.
Fix: Always check the expiration date (found on the label or molded into the plastic). Avoid secondhand seats unless you know their full history.
10. Forgetting to Register Your Car Seat
Mistake: Not registering means you won’t get notified about recalls.
Fix: Register your car seat with the manufacturer (online or via mail) to receive important safety updates.
Final Thoughts
Car seats save lives, but only when used correctly. By avoiding these mistakes and following best practices, you can ensure your child is as safe as possible every time you hit the road.
Did any of these surprise you? Drop a comment below and share this with other parents!
