What Parents Need to Know About Infant Car Seat? 2 Useful Tips For Your Baby Safety!

Author: Zac

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/what-parents-need-to-know-about-infant-car-seat-2-useful-tips-for-your-baby-safety-1410561.html

About the Author

Zac has been writing articles for baby products for nearly 5 years now.
If you want to find more Infant Car Seat Reviews, come visit his latest reviews on Baby Trend Car Seats Review.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Is there a rating for the safety of a car seat?
   I just bought a convertible car seat for my 1 year old. His father and grandmother are afriad that it’s going to “break in half” if we get into a wreck. They said there is some kind of rating system for the safety of all car seats. All I can find is convience ratings and a statement saying that all car seats are safe because they all have to pass the govornments tests. So am I missing something? If I am I will definetly check into it since this is my baby’s safety but I can’t find any safety ratings.
   Also, if anyone actually has wrecked in one how did that go? It’s a Cosco Scenera 22197ANQ.

   • ANSWER:
     Try this site…

     http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/Ease-of-Use

2. QUESTION:
   How to pick a car seat? Convertible or infant to start?
   It seems a little silly to purchase two seats in just a few months, but I’m wondering if the infant ones are safer or something?
   Also, where can you find the safety ratings for baby gear? I tried consumer reports and apparently you have to pay and subscribe. Surely you don’t have to pay to know the safety of the equipment you need to purchase!!!
   Thanks girls, really appreciate any help here! I went looking yesterday and was so confused….
   Geez Derek easily offended? I think it’s pretty obvious I wasn’t trying to upset anyone. You’re moodier than me and I’m pregnant, lol!!

   • ANSWER:
     The only time an infant bucket seat is safer than a convertible is if baby is on the smaller side (>5 to around 7lbs) Otherwise all seats have to pass the same tests for rear facing, then a different test for forward facing with convertible seats.

3. QUESTION:
   Forward Facing Car Seat?
   We have a little girl that out grew her car seat. She is 9 months and 20 pounds. We found a car seat that has superb safety ratings but it is a forward facing seat. We have heard that infants should be facing the rear until 12 months old. Is facing our baby forward going to put her into danger?? The car seat is for someone her weight……

   • ANSWER:
     20 lbs AND 1 yr. is the MINIMUM requirement. If you got pulled over (in Illinois and Wisconsin for sure), not only would you be fined, but DCFS would be contacted and they’d come investigate you due to child endangerment. The best carseat you can get is the Britax Marathon or the Sunshine Kids Radian 80–both can be used rear facing until 35 lbs and forward facing to 65 for the Britax and 80 for the Sunshine Kids.

     Rear facing is ALWAYS safest. It’d be safest for adults, too, if it would work! Her neck is not strong enough to sustain her life in the event of a crash. Infant and even toddler necks are not fully developed and the space between vertebrae and the skull is quite large. If her neck snaps forward in a crash, it will separate and she will be internally decapitated. If she’s rear facing, the carseat will absorb the impact of the crash.

     Also, if you’re looking at an Evenflo, Graco, Cosco (or Eddie Bauer), or Safety 1st seat, know that these seats are safety tested at 25-30 mph. Britax and Sunshine Kids test their seats at a minimum of 50 mph. Also, when they safety test seats, they use them with the straps on correctly–Evenflo and Cosco seats’ straps twist really easily, which is a major safety hazard, yet it seems unavoidable. Graco and Safety 1st have chest clips that are really easy to unbuckle and they slide up and down the harness really easily, regardless of how tight the harness is on your child. So, just because it’s been given a good safety rating doesn’t mean it has been deemed safe by consumers–know HOW it got the rating–does it pass the minimums or does it exceed them?

4. QUESTION:
   About how old is a 30 lb baby?
   HI guys–

   I ended up with two car seats as gifts– the same brand! ha. The thing is, they got GREAT safety ratings and its defintely the brand I want. The thing is, only one of our 2 cars are currently “baby safe”– I drive a Ford Ranger and even though you can turn the airbag off, I dont think I’ll be putting baby in my truck at all.

   We’ll be buying a second baby-safe car in mid or late summer. Baby is due this month, so she’ll already be 4+ months old then. The seat is rated for up to 30 lbs.

   Should we keep both and plan to use the second one in 4 months or should I return it and get a larger seat when we get the second car? I dont know how hold a 30lb kid is…..

   • ANSWER:
     Mty daughter is 2 and weighs 32 pounds, check to see if the car seat has a height requirement as well, some do. You can buy car seats that go from 22 pounds up to 80 pounds, so it is a front facing seat until the child is 40 pounds and then turns into a booster until they are 80 pounds. I’d return the seat and look for one like that.

5. QUESTION:
   Looking for Best Car Seat Travel System that meets my needs?
   Hello all! I’m looking for a travel system with the following (I’m hoping it exists!!):

   1.) Excellent safety ratings of course
   2.) Car seat that adjusts as the baby gets older (up to 40-60 lbs. maybe)
   3.) Removable car seat with stroller
   4.) Stroller that can also be used without car seat
   5.) Ease of use would also be great.

   Everything I’m finding so far has most of these options, but not all. Does this exist? Thanks so much!!! Willing to spend up to 0 but open to all options.

   • ANSWER:

6. QUESTION:
   Best Mommie Vehicle?
   I am 15 weeks pregnant and soon my husband and I will need to purchase a new (or used) vehicle. I am interested in one that will last us through the baby stage (car seat facing backwards) and into toddler stage (forward facing car seat).

   we prefer a car or small SUV/Van/Wagon that has excellent safety ratings, an easily accessible back seat (for putting babies in and out), affordable, and ALSO gets great gas mileage (a lot to ask!) The problem with our car now is a rear facing baby seat would require the front seats to be pushed all the way up!

   I assume by posting this question in the toddler stage of pregnancy, moms and dads will have some good suggestions of what works and doesn’t work for them. SO, if you have a particular car that you like (or hate), please tell me about it. I am very interested in ease of use and gas mileage.

   Thanks for all your help

   • ANSWER:
     I drive a 2004 Passat sedan with automatic transmission that I paid k for (brand new). It gets about 25-32 mpg (city/hwy), depending on how I drive (I have a lead foot).

     LATCH installs in the backseat are very easy. There are only two sets of LATCH anchors – they’re outboard, and the inner anchors cannot be used to install a carseat with LATCH in the center position. All three seating positions have locking seatbelts, so you can put a seat in any of the three positions. All three seating positions have a top tether.

     I have installed the Britax Marathon rear-facing behind the driver seat with LATCH, forward-facing in both outboard positions with LATCH, and it is currently forward-facing in the center position with the seatbelt.

     I have installed the Eddie Bauer 3-in-1 forward-facing in the center position. The seat tilted to the side a little because there’s a little bump in the center of the rear seat, but it was in there tight. I had to remove the base on the 3-in-1. And, I could not get it installed as tightly as I would have liked, in either outboard position. Then again, this is not my favorite seat.

     I have installed the Evenflo Triumph forward-facing outboard with LATCH. I could not get it in as tightly as I would have liked it to be – my leather seats did not want to grip on to that flat base on the Triumph.

     I have installed the Sunshine Kids Radian forward-facing outboard with LATCH. This seat is in our other vehicle so I’ve not had a lot of experience with it in the center, or with the seatbelt.

     If you have more questions, check out www.car-seat.org. There are certified child passenger safety technicians on the forum who will be happy to help! hth!

7. QUESTION:
   Britax Boulevard convertible car seat?
   Does anyone currently own and use a Britax Boulevard convertible car seat? Are you happy with it? Were you able to find safety ratings for it? Consumer Reports doesn’t include it (not sure why). Is it easy to use? Have you used it on a flight? Is it easy to install? Have you used it in the rear-facing position and has your baby comfortable in it in that position? Is a toddler comfortable in it? My baby is almost 6 months old and quite a big baby and he needs to be out of his infant seat. He’s very uncomfortable in it. I’m debating between the Britax Roundabout, Britax Marathon, and Britax Boulevard. Thanks

   • ANSWER:
     Britax Roundabout (*est. 0)
     Best convertible car seat.
     While it may seem like an expensive purchase at first glance, the Roundabout is the least expensive Britax car seat. In crash tests and car seat reviews, the Roundabout has proven itself one of the safest car seats on the market, and parents say it is easy to install and to use. The Roundabout can be used in the rear-facing position for babies up to 33 pounds, making it a solid choice for kids who may outgrow other rear-facing seats before they’re one year old. In the front-facing position, the Roundabout is rated for kids up to 40 pounds. This car seat is smaller and less bulky than the Britax Boulevard, but the Boulevard can be used for kids up to 65 pounds, so you’d be able to use it longer.

     Britax Boulevard (*est. 0)
     Best luxury car seat.
     While 0 is a lot to spend on a car seat, the Boulevard has a bunch of extra features, such as added EPS foam to protect baby’s head in a side-impact crash. There’s a removable infant pillow so that babies fit more securely in the seat. A belly pad and padded harness also add comfort. Car-seat reviews say the Britax Boulevard is larger and bulkier than many car seats, but unlike other convertible car seats, the Boulevard is rated for kids up to 65 pounds (most seats only accommodate kids up to 40 pounds), so this seat can be used much longer. Though expensive, the Britax Boulevard has almost every feature a parent could want, along with Britax’s excellent record for safety.

     Evenflo Triumph 5 (*est. 0)
     Best value.
     This seat doesn’t get the overwhelming praise of Britax car seats in reviews, and experts say it’s not quite as easy to use, but the Evenflo Triumph 5 rates just as well for safety, has plenty of plush padding, and costs a lot less. Car-seat eviews say the front-positioned harness adjustments makes them difficult to access in the rear-facing position, and the tether may only be used forward-facing, unlike the Roundabout and Boulevard car seats. With fewer frills than the Roundabout, the Evenflo is a more economical, yet just as safe choice. It is rated for infants from 5 to 30 pounds while rear-facing, and up to 40 pounds in the front-facing position.

     Graco ComfortSport (*est. )
     Basic convertible car seat.
     Car-seat reviews say the ComfortSport is a safe, affordable seat with few frills. The Graco car seat isn’t as comfortable as the Britax car seats, but reviews say it’s a good choice for a second car. This seat doesn’t recline at all, so many parents say it’s not as comfortable for infants. There are several versions of the ComfortSport. Pricier versions have more head padding and removable cup holders, which parents seem to like.

     —
     Full review below

     The best car-seat review can be found in Consumer Reports, which conducts in-house crash testing, conducting similar tests to those performed by the federal government. The book Baby Bargains also offers a wealth of information on baby gear. While editors don’t conduct crash testing, they examine every other aspect of the car seats, and also compare their own reviews to that of Consumer Reports, explaining any discrepancies between the two. The Baby Bargains Web site contains updates to the information provided in the book.

     The third and final site that is top-marked in our review section is the official site of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which offers a comprehensive ease-of-use rating system. This system assigns each seat a grade of “A,” “B” or “C” to a variety of aspects regarding the car-seat, including ease of installation and the complexity of the instructions. While this is helpful, it’s not nearly as comprehensive as the car-seat reviews found in Consumer Reports and Baby Bargains.

     Convertible seats serve a few purposes. First, they are an alternative for those that do not wish to buy three car seats, since they can generally hold an infant from birth until the child has reached 40 pounds (or as high as 65 pounds for some convertible car seats). Most experts say that a child should be in a dedicated infant car seat for the first year due to the recline of the seat and the fact that most infant seats can be taken out of the car without waking the baby, causing less stress for new parents.

     The second and generally intended purpose of convertible car seats is to hold children who are too large for an infant car seat, yet still under a year and need to be rear-facing in the car. Convertible car seats can face the rear until the child is of the right height and weight, at which time they can be switched around (or converted) to face the front. It is estimated by experts that most children will require a convertible car seat at some point.

     Britax, a company that has been marketing car seats for the US market for ten years, sweeps reviewers’ picks for the best convertible car seats, even though they are more expensive — sometimes by twice as much — as other convertible car seats. Parents an

8. QUESTION:
   Do you like this car seat? Or do you think that . . .?
   the bar at the end would be a hassle (it is attatched to the base, so when I remove the car seat it won’t be there)?

   Do you think it looks comfy enough for the baby?

   Is it boyish enough (considering there are turquoise lines in it)?
   It has great safety ratings along with the snugride, but I have yet to see a fabric I like with the graco snugride…also, this will hold a baby up to 30″ unlike the snugride which only holds up to 28″ What are your thoughts?

   http://www.babycarseats.com/Britax-E9L80L4-BRX1057.html

   • ANSWER:
     I like it and it looks very safe and comfortable. I wish I would have seen it for my baby! I think it looks very boyish. You can hang toys from the little bar when your baby gets old enough to lean up a little. Looks like a great, safe choice for your little one. Good Luck

Picking The Best Baby Hair Care Product

Author: lisa lucero

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/picking-the-best-baby-hair-care-product-3131447.html

About the Author

If you love this article, you will also love another article written by this article’s author on dual jogging stroller and Zooper jogging stroller.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Which brand is the best to use for baby safety?
   I’m trying to stop my little one from opening doors, and drawers. I have the brand safety first, using their cabinet
   & drawer latches, and the ones with the tension release strap, but i find the sticky stuff holding them in place, just fails…everytime. I sick of wasting money on a product that doesn’t work. What can I use to stop my child opening drawers, cupboards, shower doors……if you know something that definately works let me know..

   • ANSWER:
     I believe I have the same kind of cabinet locks and you are supposed to screw them in. The adhesive tape on them is so they stay in place while you screw them into the cabinet.

     If you have cabinet doors with the handle together, I suggest just getting the slide locks. They had them that looked like a U shape and you just slid the end on and then pushed buttons on the top and bottom to slide them off. I cant find them anymore though BUT now they have these ones that look like a diamond and 2 zip tie looking things that you loop through the center diamond piece… they are mommy proof too though LOL! I bought both of these at walmart.

     For the doors, they have door knob covers at walmart too. OR you can buy a gate and not let him or her in the kitchen and close the bathroom door…

2. QUESTION:
   Too young to have a baby?
   First off, let me make it clear that I am NOT planning on having a child right away (it will probably be at least five more years before I start trying); this question is solely out of curiosity! That said, let me explain my situation a bit. Here’s what you need to know:

   I am 20 years old. My boyfriend is 23 (closer to 24) years old.

   He and I have been in a wonderful, steady relationship for two years. We get along well, and very, very rarely argue. We’re very compatible, and absolutely in love.

   We plan to get married soon after graduating from college.

   We live together in an apartment with our kitty. We’ve lived together for about nine months, and we love it.

   We both attend school full time at the University of Washington.

   I am an Early Childhood and Family Studies major, and a philosophy minor. I also have a background in psychology.

   I plan to work as a professional nanny until I have my own child, at which point I would like to be a stay-at-home mom if money allows. This will likely be a feasible option, as the career my boyfriend is planning on getting into pays roughly ,000 to 0,000 a year.

   I have worked as a nanny for over three years, for children of ALL ages (from birth to thirteen), and I love every age range. This has given me lots of experience taking care of children (yes, including diaper changes and tantrums) and I love every minute of it. I’m very good with kids.

   I also read up about childcare and child development CONSTANTLY. I’m even subscribed to several parenting magazines. I know all about childcare, health and safety, the best baby products, milestones (and how to help a baby reach them), styles of parenting (I most closely identify with attachment parenting), birth, breastfeeding, emotional development – the list goes on and on and on.

   We both really want one child. We have baby names picked out, we know exactly what we want the nursery to look like, we know which baby products we want, we know which values we want to pass on to our child, etc., etc., etc. We even have ideas for traditions we want to pass on or start as a family.

   My boyfriend and I are NOT really into “partying.” We’re not the typical college students who like to drink and go clubbing – we’re not into doing the things people typically mean when they say “take this time to be young.” We like hanging out at home and just being together, and we enjoy dreaming of and planning our future. We’re extremely responsible, financially and otherwise (we’ve never been late on a single bill, if we use credit cards we pay them COMPLETELY off at the end of every month, we save money for the future, etc.). We’re intelligent and educated. We’re laid-back, low-key, and stable. And we have a lot of love to give!

   I want a baby more than anything in the world – I wake up thinking about it most days. I can’t wait to be a mom and I love my future baby already. But I know that part of loving my baby is giving it the best life possible – which, for me, means waiting a few years until we’re both done with school, we’re married, we have a 2+ bedroom house, we have more money to spend, etc.

   HOWEVER, I think about being a mom all the time, and I always wonder what it would be like in my current situation. This has left me extremely curious as to what people would think if I had a child. This is where you come in! Please answer the following questions:

   1) If you DID know my situation (if you just skipped down to this question, please read what I wrote above to learn more about my situation), what would you think of my boyfriend and I having a baby? Would you think we were too young? Too inexperienced? Too irresponsible?

   2) If you did NOT know my situation, what would you think? (Imagine you just saw a two people, who appeared to be about 20 and 23/24, with a baby. You knew nothing else about them.) Too young? Too inexperienced? Too irresponsible?

   3) How long do you think we should wait to have a baby? What would you do if you were in our situation?

   4) Do you think we will make good parents when the time comes?

   5) Any other comments you’d like to make? I’d love to hear what you think!

   I know this was a very long question, so thank you for bearing with me. I’m dying to know what people think. Please do answer! I’d really appreciate it. :] Thanks!
   There are a few things I’d like to clarify, since people have been mentioning them:

   1) I DO plan to wait until we’re both finished with school.

   2) I DO plan to wait until we’re married. And, yes, we DO plan to get married.

   3) I HAVE talked about it with my boyfriend, and we ARE on the same page about everything.

   4) I know about the litter box thing, and my boyfriend would do the scooping when I got pregnant. (Actually, by the time I get pregnant, I hope to have my cat using the toilet – we almost had him trained already!) My cat is a purebred, healthy indoor cat with no diseases or health issues, so hopefully that wouldn’t be an issue.
   5) Believe me, I do NOT only want the child when he or she is a baby! The only reason I kept using the term “baby” is because I was referring to a time relatively soon after birth (i.e. when I have the child, or when you hypothetically see a young couple with a newborn). I’m very excited for all ages and stages! I can’t wait to see my child grow up.

   • ANSWER:
     Hey!

     I am 20 in two weeks and I too can’t wait to have a baby. But I am counting down the days until I am old enough and financially stable to have one.

     1. Considering your situation you sound like you would be a great mother. I mean, there are 35 year olds who are still not mature enough to have babies but still do.

     2. 20/24 is not an uncommon age to have a baby. It is actually a good time to have a baby. The only reason it is really ‘out of fashion’ is because people usually do not have money by then or are still young and like to party. If you were 17, I would be saying something completely different.

     3. Personally I want to have a baby when I am around 25. Because by then I would have saved enough to have my own house, finished my degree and have worked a few years to build up some money. That is the only thing really holding me back, money. And the fact that non of my friends have babies and I would really like my children to be brought up with other children around them.

     4. Sounds like you would make a lovely mother. You have more knowledge about kids than most mothers. Not every mother has studied child care, though some seriously should have to complete some kind of parenting course before they can be parents.

     5. Waiting for that day to come is hard. The way I see it, every day that I work, every day that I study, is a step closer to having everything set up the way I want it for by baby. I would hate to have one now and not be able to have the nursery the way I want, or all the toys and books I want to get for my baby. Or the freedom and stability to be a stay at home mum. So it is better in the long run, if I wait.

     Good luck

3. QUESTION:
   What’s the best name brand maker for children out of these?
   Graco
   Eddie Bauer
   Disney
   Baby Eienstein
   Safety 1st
   Evenflo

   Or if you know of one better let me know and why. I’m having my first child and I’m looking to buy products that has had the least recalls, best for durability and lasting, safe for children, and handy for parents. Which name brand is best?

   • ANSWER:
     I think you’ll find that each product, and each category, has different safety ratings. We went with the highest safety rating at the best price, and had a Graco infant seat and an Evenflo convertible seat. As far as other products go, they will run the gamut. There’s not one manufacturer that does everything the best. Check out Consumer Reports and read reviews on Amazon when you’re shopping for an item.

4. QUESTION:
   Best brand of breast milk storage bags?
   What kind of milk storage bags do you like? I have been using Lansinoh and they work fine, but I am running out and need to buy more. I was thinking of getting these “easy pour” ones http://store.babycenter.com/product/safety+-+baby+care/easy+pour+milk+storage+bags.do? – has anyone tried these? I think I tried Medela in the beginning and they leaked. I need to freeze them, so they need to be sturdy. Thanks for your thoughts!

   • ANSWER:
     I have to agree with Tanya – use bags that are made specifically for breast milk only – you know they are sterile, they are made FOR breast milk so they are the right thickness, they have the measurements mL/oz right on the bag. Also do NOT reuse them, they are not THAT expensive, I think rinsing them and reusing them could lead to problems and if you’re putting soap in there, you may not get all of it out which could cause your child to have diarrhea and could make the milk taste different.

     Okay, so I’ve used Gerber and Lansinoh. I prefer the Lansinoh bags because they can be frozen flat, it makes them sooo easy to store and organize. I have a large supply of frozen milk and it was getting difficult and time consuming sorting through them trying to find the oldest bags first. So, now I freeze them flat, and I can stand them upright in a plastic bin in the freezer and they are already in order. The Lansinoh bags also have an easy pour spout, turn the bag side ways (flat part facing ceiling) and squeeze the two edges together and they make a nice pour spout. They are also very well priced – 50 qt. for .99 at our local Target.

     Good luck

5. QUESTION:
   What is the best baby monitor?
   Hi parents. I would like to know which baby monitor has worked the best for you. We have an almost 3 month old & 3 year old. I had a perfectly fine monitor for my first child. But I seemed to have lost the parent receiver. I believe it was by Safety 1st.
   We don’t live in a big house (although we plan on moving this summer). Right now we are living in a duplex, so I would expect interference.
   Baby has always been in the same room as me so I haven’t needed a monitor. She will soon be moving into a crib & I will need to hear her.
   We don’t have a whole lot of money, but if someone swears by the product, we will consider it.
   I would perfer the kind that can clip on to the crib.
   If you know of one that is cheap, but has a few cons, that’s ok too. Thanks.

   • ANSWER:
     the sounds and lights one works great for most people. i used to work at babies r us and that was the most commonly sold one. it really depends on what area you live in, but still, the sounds and lights is good. that’s the one i have and love it. you can turn the sound off, but still see when the baby cries.

6. QUESTION:
   What baby product companies do you like?
   Just curious what companies you like best…either like their products or find the company easy to deal with if you had any problems? I really like Evenflo stuff and I find both Playtex and Baby Einstein are great if you have a problem. Playtex replaced my leaky bottle nipples with no problems and Baby Einstein sent me a replacement top for my daughters mat when hers broke and I got it the next day! I however find Safety First is a pain…I requested info about a replacement canopy for my daughters stroller and its been over a week and I haven’t heard from them and I found the people at Huggies to be very rude. What companies do you like? Have you had any problems with companies?
   Yeah Graco is pretty good too…I love their Pack N Play

   • ANSWER:
     I had to contact first years about my breast pump dying after 4 months of use. The warranty was only for 90 days but I called anyways and they ended up replacing my pump with no cost to me. But I hated that pump anyway so I had already bought a medela and so I just sold the new one. But I am pleased that they replaced it even out of warranty.

7. QUESTION:
   Dumb and Funny Warning Labels On Products?
   Liquid Plummer
   Warning: Do not reuse the bottle to store beverages.

   Windex
   Do not spray in eyes.

   Toilet Plunger
   Caution: Do not use near power lines.

   Dremel Electric Rotary Tool
   This product not intended for use as a dental drill.

   Arm & Hammer Scoopable Cat Litter
   Safe to use around pets.

   Bowl Fresh
   Safe to use around pets and children, although it is not recommended that either be permitted to drink from toilet.

   Endust Duster
   This product is not defined as flammable by the Consumer Products Safety Commision Regulations. However, this product can be ignited under certain circumstances.

   Baby Oil
   Keep out of reach of children

   Little Ones Baby Lotion
   Keep away from children

   Hair Coloring
   Do not use as an ice cream topping.

   Wet-Nap
   Directions: Tear open packet and use.

   Dial Soap
   Directions: Use like regular soap.
   Stridex Foaming Face Wash
   May contain foam.

   Hairdryer:
   Do not use while taking a shower.

   Old Spice Red Zone Deoderant
   Use only on underarms.

   Zantac 75
   Do not take if allergic to zantac.

   Sleeping Pills
   Warning: May cause Drowsiness

   Christmas Lights
   Warning: For indoor or outdoor use only.

   Bic Lighter
   Ignite lighter away from face.

   Komatsu Floodlight
   This floodlight is capable of illuminating large areas, even in the dark

   Fire Extinguisher:
   Caution: Non-Flamable

   Earplugs
   These ear plugs are nontoxic, but may interfere with breathing if caught in windpipe

   Mattress
   Warning: Do not attempt to swallow

   Matches
   Caution: Contents may catch fire.

   Pepper Spray
   Caution: Never aim spray at your own eyes.

   Auto-Shade Widnshield Visor
   Warning: Do not drive with sunshade in place. Remove from windshield before starting ignition.

   Fix-a-Flat
   WARNING: Do not weld can to rim.

   Rain Gauge
   Suitable for outdoor use.

   RCA Television Remote Control
   Not Dishwasher Safe

   Pine Mountain Fire Logs
   Caution: Risk of fire

   Triops Fish Food
   Warning: Not for human consumption

   Home Depot Treated Lumber
   Do not consume

   Hair Dryer
   Warning: Do not use while sleeping.

   Road Sign
   Caution water on road during rain.

   Camera
   This camera will only work when film is inside.

   Road Sign
   Cemetery Road. Dead End

   Church Parking Lot Sign
   Thou shalt not park

   Children’s Superman Costume
   Wearing of this garment does not enable you to fly.

   Silk Soy Milk
   Shake well and buy often

   Air Conditioner
   Caution: Avoid dropping air conditioners out of windows.

   Rowenta Iron
   Warning: Never iron clothes on the body.

   Slush Puppy Cup
   This ice may be cold

   American Airlines Peanuts
   Instructions: open packet, eat nuts.

   Nabisco Easy Cheese
   For best results, remove cap.

   Swanson TV Dinners
   This product must be cooked before eating.

   Hershey’s Almond Bar
   Warning: May contain traces of nuts

   Heinz Ketchup
   Instructions: Put on food

   500-piece puzzle:
   Some assembly required.

   Beach Ball
   CAUTION: It is not a life saving device.

   Chainsaw
   Do not attempt to stop chain with hands.

   Sears hairdryer:
   Do not use while sleeping.

   Bag of Fritos:
   You could be a winner! No purchase necessary. Details inside.

   Bar of Dial soap:
   Directions: Use like regular soap.

   Swann frozen dinners:
   Serving suggestion: Defrost.

   Hotel provided shower cap in a box:
   Fits one head.

   Tesco’s Tiramisu dessert: (printed on bottom of the box)
   Do not turn upside down.

   Marks & Spencer Bread Pudding:
   Product will be hot after heating.

   Packaging for a Rowenta iron:
   Do not iron clothes on body.

   Boot’s Children’s cough medicine:
   Do not drive car or operate machinery.

   Nytol sleep aid:
   Warning: may cause drowsiness.

   String of Chinese-made Christmas lights:
   For indoor or outdoor use only.

   Japanese food processor:
   Not to be used for the other use.

   Sainsbury’s peanuts:
   Warning: contains nuts.

   American Airlines packet of nuts:
   Instructions: open packet, eat nuts.

   Korean kitchen knife:
   Warning keep out of children

   Helmet mounted mirror used by us cyclists:
   Remember, objects in the mirror are actually behind you

   New Zealand insect spray:
   This product not tested on animals.

   Blanket from taiwan:
   not to be used as protection from a tornado

   Cardboard windshield sun shade:
   Warning: Do Not Drive With Sun Shield in Place.

   Infant’s bathtub:
   Do not throw baby out with bath water.

   Package of Fisherman’s Friend throat lozenges:
   Not meant as substitute for human companionship.

   Disposable razor:
   Do not use this product during an earthquake.

   Bottle of shampoo for dogs
   Caution: The contents of this bottle should not be fed to fish.

   Curling Iron
   Warning: This product can burn eyes.

   Hair Dryer
   Do not use in shower.

   Hair Dryer
   Do not use while sleeping.

   Hand-held Massaging Device
   Do not use while sleeping or unconscious.

   Case of a chocolate CD in a gift basket.
   Do not place this product into any electronic equipment.

   A toilet at a public sports facility
   Recycled flush water unsafe for drinking.

   Pair of shin guards made for bicyclists
   Shin pads cannot protect any part of the body they do not cover.

   Container of Underarm Deodorant.
   Caution: Do not spray in eyes.

   Aim-n-Flame fireplace lighter.
   Do not use near fire, flame, or sparks.

   Toner cartridge for a laser printer
   Do not eat toner.

   13-inch wheel on a wheelbarrow
   Not intended for highway use.

   Can of self-defense pepper spray.
   May irritate eyes.

   Novelty rock garden set called “Popcorn Rock”
   Eating rocks may lead to broken teeth.

   A frisbee
   Warning: May contain small parts.

   A toilet bowl cleaning brush.
   Do not use orally.

   A birthday card for a 1 year old.
   Not suitable for children aged 36 months or less.

   Heated seat cushion
   Warning: Do not use on eyes.

   Microwave Oven:
   Do not use for drying pets.

   Electric Cattle Prod
   For use on animals only.

   Can of air freshener.
   For use by trained personnel only.

   Silly Putty
   Do not use as ear plugs.

   Knife sharpening stone
   Warning: knives are sharp!

   Deodorant
   Do not use intimately.

   Rat Poison
   Warning: has been found to cause cancer in laboratory mice.

   Portable stroller
   Caution: Remove infant before folding for storage.

   Dashboard of a mail truck
   Look before driving.

   Children’s cough medicine
   Do not drive car or operate machinery.

   Sign at a railroad station
   Beware! To touch these wires is instant death. Anyone found doing so will be prosecuted.

   Bottom of a supermarket dessert box
   Do not turn upside down.

   Package of dice.
   Not for human consumption.

   Bottled Drink:
   Twist top off with hands. Throw top away. Do not put top in mouth.

   Shipment of hammers
   May be harmful if swallowed.

   Manual for an SGI computer.
   Do not dangle the mouse by its cable or throw the mouse at co-workers.

   Stamped on the metal barrel of a .22 calibre rifle
   Warning: Misuse may cause injury or death.

   Electric Thermometer.
   Do not use orally after using rectally.

   Packaging for a chain saw file, used to sharpen the cutting teeth on the chain.
   Turn off motor before using this product.

   6×10 inch inflatable picture frame
   Not to be used as a personal flotation device.

   Box of bottle rockets
   Do not put in mouth.

   Wrapper of a Fruit Roll-Up snack
   Remove plastic before eating.

   Box for a car jack
   For lifting purposes only.

   Instructions for a cordless phone:
   Do not put lit candles on phone.

   Small print from car commercial which shows a car in the ocean
   Do not drive cars in ocean.

   Small print from a car commercial which shows a vehicle “body-surfing” at a concert
   Always drive on roads. Not on people.

   Bus Stop
   No stopping or standing.

   Church Sign
   These rows reserved for parents with children.

   Bag of Fritos
   You could be a winner! No purchase necessary. Details inside.

   Credit card statement.
   Payment is due by the due date.

   Laundromat triple washer
   No small children.

   Sign in front of a newly renovated ramp that led to the entrance of a building
   Take care: new non-slip surface.

   Box of Pills
   Take one capsule by mouth three times daily until gone.

   Instructions on the packaging for a muffin at a 7-11
   Remove wrapper, open mouth, insert muffin, eat.

   Can of black pepper.
   Instructions: usage known.

   Bag of cat biscuits
   Simply pour the biscuits into a bowl and allow the cat to eat when it wants.

   Car Manual
   In order to get out of car, open door, get out, lock doors, and then close doors.

   Espresso Kettle
   The appliance is switched on by setting the on/off switch to the ‘on’ position.

   T.V. manual
   Do not pour liquids into your television set.

   Label on a hammer
   Caution – Do not use this hammer to strike any solid object

   VCR box
   Instructional video on hooking up VCR included.

   Toilet brush
   Do not use for personal hygiene.

   Black rubber fishing worm
   Not for human consumption.

   Orange Juice Can:
   100% pure all-natural fresh-squeezed orange juice from concentrate.

   Depend Adult Diapers
   Step into underwear and pull them on just like regular underwear.

   Furniture Wipes
   Do not use for a baby wipe.

   Stickers to put on the seat of a potty training toilet
   This is not a toy. Stickers require adult supervision.

   Lawnmower
   Warning: When Motor Is Running – The Blade Is Turning

   Instructions on the bottom of a grocery store pizza
   Do not turn upside down.

   Bottom of a Coca-Cola bottle
   Do not open here.

   Bottle of bathtub cleaner
   For best results, start with clean bathtub before use.

   Container of lighter fluid
   WARNING: Contents flammable!

   Box of household nails
   CAUTION! – Do NOT swallow nails! May cause irritation!

   Microwave popcorn, packaged so that the directions cannot be read unless you open the plastic and unfold it
   Direction #1: Remove plastic.

   Drink bottle label
   Do not peel label off.

   Woolite carpet cleaner
   Safe for carpets, too!

   Box of Frosted Cheerio’s
   The logo, “Tastes so good this box never closes,” is located just underneath another announcement: “To close: place tab here.”

   Sterno
   Do not use near fire or flame.

   Container of salt
   Warning: High in sodium

   Hose Nozzle
   Do not spray into electrical outlet.

   • ANSWER:
     Oh my god, I laughed sooo hard when I was reading these. I have run into some funny ones myself. I think the best one was for some laundry pre-treater: spray on stain and wash.
     Like nobody would have figured that one out. LOL

8. QUESTION:
   Anyone else get just the tiniest feeling of satisfaction when…?
   I know it’s awful but does anyone else besides me get just the tiniest feeling of glee when one of those outrageously expensive and super trendy baby products gets recalled for safety reasons? I live in CT and there’s a shopping area not far from me where all the snobby SAHMs stroll along with their 700-1200 dollar strollers, babies all dolled up in Janie and Jack or whatever All-organic trendy boutique outfit they found, etc. They sit at Starbucks and chat about how they have already filled out applications for thier 3 month olds to attend the best pre-schools around, blah-blah-blah…

   Don’t get me wrong, I think a lot of expensive baby things are very nice. I would certainly buy all organic clothing and specail cloth diapers (but not at a pop) if I could afford them… but it’s the way they carry the babies around like a fashion accessory and look down on someone who can’t afford to spend on an all organic outfit for their child to outgrow in a month!

   I believe in doing what I can for the environment and my priority is keeping my 8 month old daughter happy and healthy. I make her foods at home from scratch and use organic whole grains and fruits and veggies but I do it for her health, not to tell my snobby friends I am doing it. (Besides it ends up saving me money in the long run, LOL.

   So… anyway, back to my point… every once in a while it’s just so satisfying to see one of their super trendy strollers or something like that get a big recall. Anyone else feel this way? And no, it’s not a jeallousey thing. I was raised to spend wisely and to appreciate what I have. I’m not poor but I am a single mother and I watch my money.

   • ANSWER:
     Yeh. My mum bought Soph a Tutti Bambini cot bed, along with the spring mattress it cost £250 all in – it was her baby gift to us.

     My BF cousin, bought the most beautifil oval cots, with 2 sets of all matching bedding. It had the drapes over it and it was just stunning. I think it topped about £6-700.

     They were always very quick to flash pics of their daughter in it, she is 2 weeks younger than soph. Then it got recalled.

     And I was sooooo tempted to say, well, my ”cheap tat” is still standing, where’s your trendy cot now?

How To Create Unique And Safe Baby Room For Your Child Safety?

Author: Neelima Reddy

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/how-to-create-unique-and-safe-baby-room-for-your-child-safety-1549625.html

About the Author

Neelima Reddy, author of this article writes for NewBornBabyZone.com. The New Born Baby blog published information on various aspects required for taking care of new born like newborn health and disorders, Baby sleep aspects, Toddler care, Baby gifts, Baby toys, Baby furniture, Baby care center, etc. For more information visit Newborn Baby Zone

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   can baby go over crib railing?
   my 6 month old can already pull himself up in a standing position in his crib. i’ve already taken off his bumpers so he won’t b able to use them as steps. lately i’ve notice him bouncing while holding on to the rails (which btw is already at neck level) would he be strong enough to pull himself over the rails? this has been scaring me for days. any other advice on crib safety for his age wld be most welcome. thanks in advance.

   • ANSWER:
     If is only bouncing, not jumping, you’re ok for now. Besides the bumper, make sure you have removed all other toys from the crib. Mobiles, toys, stuffed animals and pillows all can be used to step on or pull themselves up. Also make sure you have the mattress set at the lowest level. The crib being a neck level seems a little high, but he may be tall for his age, since he is ahead of the game in standing and bouncing.

     Once he begins jumping and climbing, then you would need to move him to another bed. If he’s under one when you move him, it may be best just to put the mattress on the floor the first few months as he gets used to it. That way if he gets active he’s only got a 4-6″ fall. Once he’s used to sleeping in a “big boy” bed, you can transition him to a toddler or regular bed with a guard rail.

     Hope this helps,

     Alan

2. QUESTION:
   I’m looking for a crib safety net, to keep baby from getting arms/legs stuck in rails. Any suggestions?
   All I am able to find is the crib tents but I don’t want a tent just the inside net to keep my daughters hands and feet from poking through the crib rails. I saw it once before on target.com but am unable to locate it now. Need help finding something like this to protect her.

   • ANSWER:
     Check out www.onestepahead.com . They have a nice line of “breathable bumpers.”

     ** after checking again the ones at www.onestepahead.com are the same as the ones from Toys r Us, made by BreathableBaby, but One Step Ahead has them in several different colors and TRU only has sage and pink. (same price both places)

3. QUESTION:
   Baby safety on a balcony…??
   We recently moved into a condo on the second floor. The balcony has rails that are wide and unsafe for our 7 month old who is learning to crawl. We would never let him out by himself but, we still want it to be safe. Someone suggested getting chicken fence and putting it up w/ twist ties… Any other suggestions? Whats safe that he won’t be able to crawl up onto or pull down or even bite on and hurt himself?

   • ANSWER:
     Go to onestepahead.com. The have all sorts of products that may be able to help you. They carry deck guards and other items. It is listed under the safety heading.

4. QUESTION:
   Is there a safety risk in elevating my baby’s mattress?
   I am a mom of a 3 week old baby. The last few days, she has not been wanting to sleep flat on her back. She sleeps fine in her swing and her crib but she’s really fussy at night when she’s on her back. Also, during the day when she’s napping or just laying on her back, she cries until I pick her up. Is there a safety risk in elevating her crib mattress? The springboard allows for the mattress to be elevated quite easily without any chance of it slipping or falling. I’m just wondering if there’s a risk of her suffocating or smacking her head against the side rails. Thank you so much!
   PS – She is breastfed.

   • ANSWER:
     No there isn’t my twins were in the NICU for over a month and that’s how they kept them in the incubators… They said it was better for them since they were preemies and could barely let go of thier gas…. It’s better for their breathing and for acid and such… If it’s good for the hospital… It should be ok to do… just don’t over do it.

5. QUESTION:
   will you be buying a Toddler bed for your baby?
   we have a cot/crib and a normal sized single bed.
   I think our son should be able to go from cot straight to the big bed (with a rail for safety) when he’s older.
   but i see on yahoo a lot of mums use toddler beds????

   • ANSWER:

6. QUESTION:
   I’m 13 and I want to take a VIA rail train from Montreal to Kingston can someone assure my safety?
   My parents are worried about me being stolen off the train because they think I’m still a baby. Is there someone (stewardess ETC) that could make sure I have a safe travel?

   • ANSWER:
     The short answer is, no.

     That being said, nothing is a sure thing, and I am afraid that you have gotten yourself into an issue that pure statistics will not settle.

     Your parents are undoubtedly aware that there are some crazies out in the world, and no amount of data on train safety is going to sway them from that position.

     The only way I can see you making that train trip is if they are assured that someone they trust will be there along with you the whole way, willing to be responsible for your safe passage.

     Maybe if you could scare up some relative or even arrange for you to travel with a “buddy”, I think many of their fears could be allayed.

     Good luck – train travel is “the bomb” (figuratively speaking, of course).

7. QUESTION:
   Can my 11 week old baby travel in a stroller?
   I am making a long journey down to visit family this week and have just been informed by the rail company that my pram cannot go on the train! I cannot carry my son in a carrier as I have a bad back so am thinking about buying a cheap stroller/pushchair just for this trip. They all say 6 months and up, is this vital to his safety? He can’t sit up on his own yet but can hold his head up. Please advise!

   • ANSWER:
     Most of the travel strollers you are talking about do not have 5 point harnesses (waist,crotch, over shoulders) and that makes them a bit more dangerous for younger babies. That is why the 6 months and up warning. I have seen them, though and some of them even recline back a little. Most of these, even though they do recline a little, are definitely more upright and meant for children who can sit, even if supported. I would be leery about doing this with a baby so young. Maybe contact the rail company and explain the situation. I am sure they have run across this before. Good luck and safe journey!

8. QUESTION:
   Drop rail safety on crib?
   My 9.5 mth old has just started standing in his crib. He has one of those cribs with the drop down rail on the side for easy access of putting baby in and out. The only problem is that when he tries to pull up sometimes one side comes unhooked and drops a bit, if he were to get to the other side and do the same thing, he could have it drop low enough for him to fall out if he were to stand up.
   Has anyone else had this problem?

   Also the mattress is as low as it will go, and there is no way to lock the crib rail in place. Should I contact the manufacturer?

   • ANSWER:
     Yes you should DEFINITELY contact the manufacturer TODAY. Your baby could take a dangerous spill. You should also go to consumerreports.org to see if there has already been a recall on your crib.
     In the meantime, keep your baby in a pack n’ play.

Window Guards – Why Is It So Important?

Author: Kathleen Chester

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/window-guards-why-is-it-so-important-4049424.html

About the Author

At Safe-tots.com, we offer the complete line of Guardian Angel Window Guards and select models of John Sterling Window Guards to meet all your safety needs. Visit Online!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Does it mess up the windows or motor if i remove the child safety window locks?
   I have a 2002 Maxima if that matters. I was wondering if it would mess up any parts in the door if the safety stuff was removed.

   • ANSWER:
     If you are talking about the rear windows that only go down halfway then yes you will destroy the rear window regulators if you tamper with this……..

     There is no way that this can be altered without ruining them…..

2. QUESTION:
   How do you install child window guards with window air conditioners?
   I’m trying to install an air conditioner in a window which also has to have child safety window guards. To start I’m properly installing the air conditioner with a good bracket, but the window is 48 inches wide (and the AC is 18 inches wide) so the rest of the window isn’t guarded. It is a very shallow window, only about 3 inches from the start of the windowsill on the inside to the outside of the frame. Am I stuck with putting plywood in the rest of the window? I’d like to be able to take it out of the window for the winter.

   Thanks!

   • ANSWER:
     there are safety window locks that screw anywhere on to a window frame, go to any local hardware store and they should carry them ( very effective and easy to install )

3. QUESTION:
   window gates for a child safety, who should provide this me or the landlord?
   six big windows in a private house on the second floor!
   i heard that it it the law that the landlord should provide window gates if the person that lives there has a child from the age 1 to 12 years old.

   • ANSWER:
     You heard wrong. No law like that.

     Obtain permission from the landlord before you install. he will not deny you, but he still should know.

     Once you install them you can not take them out, they become private property of the property owner.

4. QUESTION:
   child safety window locks!!! fit to old windows?
   my flat has old windows not double glazing single panel windows that swing outward and have a metal frame does anyone have similar windows and can you recommend a brand or type of lock that I can get to stop my son opening the windows !! They do have a catch but becauset they are old windows the catch doesn’t always work. We live in the channel islands so there are not many places I can shop around in to find the right one

   • ANSWER:
     try this site its where i got my window locks for my old windows

5. QUESTION:
   My land lord thretend to kick me out if I don’t take down my child safety window guard!!?
   I recently put a window guard in my window because my two year old son has a Habit of hitting it with his hands. My land lord told me to take it down and is calling it a “modification” to the window and that is not allowed per our contract. In addition she has said that it is an eye sore. Is having a window guard really considered a modification? (btw it can be easily pulled in and out of the window). can they legally kick me out? I thought it was the law for families with children under 10 had to have a window guard but in any case the land lord says that I am wrong about what the law says and even if it was the law, their corporate policies supersede the law. Please give me Your thoughts, info and advise. thanks

   • ANSWER:

6. QUESTION:
   how do i get rid of rear Child safety windows?
   the windows dont even get half way down.
   which i think is dumb.
   if i dont want a baby falling out i would just lock the windows in place.

   • ANSWER:
     It is actually to keep children from sticking their hands out the window; it is not to keep babies from falling out the window.

     If you do not like it, you can get another car. It is not something that you can remove from an existing car.

7. QUESTION:
   Where in the UK I can buy a window safety netting?
   I would be very grateful if anyone could suggest me a shop where I could buy a window safety netting to prevent a child from falling out of the window.
   Thanks!

   Many thanks.

   • ANSWER:
     mothercare (I’m not joking)

8. QUESTION:
   Window safety??
   Is there something that you can put on your windows to where a child can not open the window?

   My window did have these little tabs that you can pull out to prevent it from going to high but they broke off, I know real cheap windows but we can’t afford to get new ones right now. My daughter, who is three almost 4 years old, can reach the locks and unlock them and open the window which scares me because the windows she can reach are upstairs.

   I would like to get something to put on them but I am not sure what to prevent her from opening the window.

   Thanks.

   • ANSWER:

Should You Let Your Baby Snooze In Their Car Seat?

Author: Kerri Bullock

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/should-you-let-your-baby-snooze-in-their-car-seat-1079907.html

About the Author

Kerri Bullock is a business partner of the online store – BabyOnTheGo.

British Baby Sign Language – an Introduction

Author: Nicola Smout

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/british-baby-sign-language-an-introduction-437970.html

About the Author

Nicola Smout is a qualified BSL (British Sign Language) Baby Signing Teacher and mum to a 2 year old signing baby boy. She educates people in the joys of Baby Signing and the benefits that Baby Sign can bring to both parent and child.

For more information about signing with your baby visit www.babysignonline.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Where can I buy a baby safety gate in Sydney Australia?
   We are vacationing in Darling harbour, Sydney, Australia, and we are looking for a baby safety gate for our apartment. Where can we find one close by? Thanks.

   • ANSWER:
     David Jones or Myers city stores should stock them & are a nice though uphill walk from Darling Hbr or take the monorail to Town Hall & walk from to the stores theyre right near Sydney Tower

2. QUESTION:
   baby safety gates for my dog?
   i’m in australia. anyone know where i can get steel ones for under ? currently in competition with someone on ebay.

   • ANSWER:
     I am in Australia too..ebay is your cheapest source..are you talking about the metal puppy pens?

     If you want gates, the plastic ones are fine too..or go to an op shop and just get one there..

     Good luck!

Baby Safety Products – The Basics

Author: Kerri Bullock

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/baby-safety-products-the-basics-2251112.html

About the Author

BabyOnTheGo are an online baby safety store who stock a a good selection of different baby safety products. Don’t forget to read BabyOnTheGo’s helpful baby blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Crawling baby…and 4 year old..any safety tips?
   Obviously I have all the gates and plug covers, drawer and cupboard locks…but baby is only just 6 months and just started crawling in the last 2 days..her 4 year old sister is constantly leaving teeny tiny toys around the floor and of course the baby is going straight for them…I pick up all the time but now and then I see something I missed…today it was beads and some kids jewelry…I have explained a million times to my 4 year old what could happen if baby gets any small toys… I have given her special boxes and banned her from beading in the living room but while I am doing something else she is leaving comics which the baby grabs and chews and worries me sick! What can I do short of banning all toys from the living room…I dont want my eldest to feel like I am pushing her out.

   • ANSWER:
     My opinion, with a baby life is going to change for everyone and I don’t think it’s bad (I don’t feel that you would be pushing her out) to set new boundaries. Your four year old needs to experience changes and she needs to learn how to deal with them and readjust. It’s just a life experience that we all need to learn, because it’s something we will all face. I think that you should talk to her and tell over and over again. Keep reminding her, even before she leaves the toys out. Tell her while she is playingthat when she is done she needs to put the toy/s away. Use positive reinforcement, when she does it, even if you have to tell her to put it away, make sure you let her know what a good girl she is and how much she helped mommy. Also if she does leave a toy out don’t pick it up yourself, bring her in the room to pick it up and put it away. And when you feel that this isn’t working then show her what happens to toys she doesn’t put away. Put something aside and tell her this is where toys go when she doesn’t put them away like mommy asks and tell her she won’t get them back until she proves that she can put her other toys away or she can get them back in a certain time frame. Good luck.

2. QUESTION:
   What is the reason for “take your babies for work day?”?
   We had take your daughters to work day for many years, and expanded it to take your kids to work day, so that the boys to could participate, too. Today we have a special day called take your babies to work day. There are a bunch of 3, 2, and 1 year-olds in the office. I don’t want to be a crab, but the office really is not set up for children that age (no safety locks on cupboards or plugs in outlets). I ilke kids and all, but really don’t like the disturbance at work. Could someone explain what might be the point of having this?

   • ANSWER:
     OK, I’ll be a crab. It’s ridiculous. As someone without children I tried to arrange my schedule to be out of the office that day. We don’t do it here any more and I think one of the reasons was that people starting bringing younger children and just making it a play day. That’s not what it was supposed to be.

3. QUESTION:
   Baby-proofing the house, have you ever been caught?
   I came back from work today to discover that my husband had put safety locks on all the kitchen cupboards doors. I thought “Great”.
   Until I wanted to grab the rice from the pantry and couldn’t open the damn thing!

   We just had a late dinner…
   Husband did put the locks!

   • ANSWER:
     Haha, bless your heart. We didn’t really “baby proof” our home like some others do. Our home is kid friendly, for sure, but we didn’t go crazy with locks/gates/and ect. Our daughter is 19 months old, and knows her boundaries very well!

4. QUESTION:
   What do you do for a child who is just too smart?
   My son is 13 months, and his is an evil genius. We put up a baby gate. Within a week he could get down. We put those baby locks on cupboard and drawers that you have to push down to open. He figured that out by the end of the day. And the velcro straps we put on the fridge? He managed to slide a broomhandle underneath and open it anyway! He knows how to pull out the electrical outlet covers, too. He even climbed onto the table! First he got onto the chair, then the table, and he was just sitting there, laughing, deviently. When I went to go grab him, he climbed down like a monkey. He knows how to undo his highchair.

   I’m getting concerned. He has successfully defeated all safety measures I put up in my house. I mean, it’s great that he has such good motor skills, but what am i going to do? I’m getting very tired of picking up tupperware and towels, and finding those damn plug covers.

   I try to engage him. Paint, blocks, books, outside, toy cars, educational DVDs ( I know, bad mommy) but as soon as I start doing something, like cooking, or folding clothes, or just going into another room to grab something, there he is, acting three times his age. What to do?
   I’ve told him no.
   He says Why?
   I tell him why, he says no.
   At which point I take him to his room, and he uses his dresser as stairs. So I put him in his crib. ANd he climbs out of it. After that, he’s usually good as gold for a few hours. Its like he’s testing me to see if I will say the same thing every time.
   yes, he does smirk evilly.

   • ANSWER:
     My kids were the same way. The way I saw it was that the safety latches and covers were there as a reminder for them not to touch, not something that they couldn’t get through it they tried. You need to teach him that it is not okay to take the outlet covers off or climb on the table or take down the baby gate. Give him a stern, “no touch” command whenever he touches something that is off limits. Remove him from the area and give him something else to do/play with. Make sure you keep your eye on him so you catch him before he gets into stuff, and tell him no. Also, try not to leave him unattended until he knows not to touch those things. Have him sit in front of you when you are folding laundry and play with a few towels. Take him with you when you have to go to another room to get something. Put him in his high chair with a snack or a toy while you are cooking dinner. Talk to him and sing to him while you cook.

     My 2yo could take off every door knob cover in the house, unlock the door and and be off into the wild world if he wanted too, but when he reaches up and sees the doorknob cover, it reminds him, “oh yeah, I’m not supposed to open that.”

     ETA:
     @Charm…What about the cabinets with glass in them, or the drawers with knives, or the electrical sockets? You need to teach them that some things are off limits for their own safety. In my house we simply do not have enough high cabinets to put every single unsafe item out of reach. My kids know that even though they can get the latches open, they are not to do so.

     We do not have latches on the cabinets with the Tupperware of pots and pans, btw, only the unsafe items.

     ETA:
     It is simply not safe to have a child on the floor in the kitchen while you are cooking. What if you drop a knife, spill hot water, have a grease splatter? He needs to be in a high chair, for his safety, not as punishment.

How to Choose Baby Cot Beds

Author: Alice Shown

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/how-to-choose-baby-cot-beds-1306590.html

About the Author

Baby Cotbeds – Kiddisave is the largest independent one stop shop for nursery baby gifts and accessories. Our most popular brands include Britax, Baby Bjorn, Maxi-Cosi, Phil & Teds, Silver Cross, Graco and many more.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Do you ladies use the locks for baby safety?
   Okay, I’m pregnant with my first baby, and I want to put locks on the cabinets that young children can open (for safety). I was wondering if you have used them, and what brands you like?

   Are they easily breakable or strudy? Thanks to everyone who answers.

   • ANSWER:
     I used a brand called ~ Safety 1st ~

     I’d wait til bub is clawing around to put them on!! I also put on the corner covers too!! (for the coffee table) and used a broom upside down for the drawers!!

     They worked well and would recommend them to any new mum!!
     here a link to the safety 1st web to have a look!!

     http://www.safety1st.com/

     Here is another site I’ve found help full too!!

     http://www.readysetsafe.com.au/child-safety-tips-&-tricks.html

     Best of luck <3 k x

2. QUESTION:
   Putting him into a bed tonight for the 1st time?
   hey

   my son is 21 months and we got him a toddler bed, we are putting him in it for the 1st time tonight.

   what age did your wee one go into a toddle bed?
   what was the 1st week like?
   will i need to take the toys/books he has out of his room?

   i have a baby gate up in his room and his wardrobe and drawers have safety baby locks on them.

   • ANSWER:
     hey hun
     i dont remember exactly but summer was around 14 months and thomas went into his on his 1st birthday
     1st week was fine then the realised they could get up just keep putting them back 1st and 2nd time say its bedtime night night then after that dont say anything when you take him back they soon get the picture that its not a game
     leave the books and toys where they are
     im guessing you have stairs near the bedrooms if not loose the stair gates they can be dangerous in kids bedrooms if theres a fire its harder to get to them
     good luck he will be fine

3. QUESTION:
   Baby’s safety and our dog. Your opinions please?
   It’s quite a long story, sorry!

   We have a 6 months old boy and a big 2 year old border collie cross breed.
   The baby recently started ‘crawling’ around and is very interested in the dog. He tries to get to the dog (like all babies) and grab her. Up until now our dog (who is normally a very gentle and sweet girl, though disobedient when there’s something going on that’s more interesting that listening to us) would just get up and walk off when the baby got to close. Tonight, however, the baby was on his way to her (his dad was standing right next to him and I was a few feet away in the kitchen talking to him) he didn’t even touch her and she barked at him. It was a high pitched bark and after she walked off. My boyfriend told her off straight away, but I totally freaked out. She’s a big dog (almost 60 pounds) and the baby is so small and vulnerable when he’s on the ground. I can’t be sitting next to him all the time when he’s playing on the floor.
   I know quite a bit about dogs and how they ‘think’, their hierarchy system etc. I know she should have not even felt it was her place to tell the baby off. She must think she is higher in rank than he is.
   I am so scared that this could lead to her ending up biting him. I don’t want to take that change and think we should find her a new home.
   We live in an apartment, so I can’t send the dog outside when the baby is crawling around. I also can’t lock her up in a room. The baby on the ground most of the time when he’s awake and what kind of life would our dog have being locked up in a small room all day?

   Am I over reacting or am I right to be afraid and not willing to take a change? The baby’s safety is the number 1 most important thing here. My boyfriend says he understand me, but doesn’t agree. He thinks she’ll never hurt the baby. I think dogs are unpredictable and you can never know.

   Thanks!
   The funny thing that when I was pregnant I was 100% sure the dog would be crazy about the baby, protect him etc and that the cat (who was like my baby, even sleeping in my arms at night) would be jealous. Turned out that the dog was jealous and started fighting with other dogs (so we lavished he with attention and she turned normal again) and the cat had no problem at all, even though she ruthlessly got ‘kicked’ out of the bed after the birth. I think she seem him as an extension of me and therefore he’s okay by her standards

   I love the idea of a baby gate. The apartment is perfect for it. Thanks so much to everyone who made that suggestion!

   • ANSWER:
     The ingredient that was the initiator of the bark was FOOD. I have cats and yes, that is different than a precious baby, but if I am eating anything and the cat is near the food, the dog will snap at the cat.
     Ordinarily there is an uneasy peace.

     I would be very concerned about the dog and baby. That is a big dog and a little baby. When you are preparing food it might be prudent to keep the baby in a play yard and maybe keep the dog outside, if appropriate or on the other side of a toddler gate.

     Personally, I wouldn’t want to take any chances. Baby is #1 and there can be some real jealousy issues with a dog, especially since dogs are very much a family member.

     The following site has some great suggestions that you may not have thought of.

     http://www.netpets.org/dogs/reference/info/baby.html

4. QUESTION:
   putting him into a bed tonight for the 1st time?
   hey

   my son is 21 months and we got him a toddler bed, we are putting him in it for the 1st time tonight.

   what age did your wee one go into a toddle bed?
   what was the 1st week like?
   will i need to take the toys/books he has out of his room?

   i have a baby gate up in his room and his wardrobe and drawers have safety baby locks on them.

   • ANSWER:
     hey hun
     i dont remember exactly but summer was around 14 months and thomas went into his on his 1st birthday
     1st week was fine then the realised they could get up just keep putting them back 1st and 2nd time say its bedtime night night then after that dont say anything when you take him back they soon get the picture that its not a game
     leave the books and toys where they are
     im guessing you have stairs near the bedrooms if not loose the stair gates they can be dangerous in kids bedrooms if theres a fire its harder to get to them
     good luck he will be fine

5. QUESTION:
   Baby proofing?
   Do people with young kids use toilet locks like this one? http://store.babycenter.com/product/safety+-+baby+care/bathing/bathroom+safety/toilet+lock.do?asc=false I have never seen this before.
   So far, I have installed electrical outlet covers. What other baby proofing items would you consider essential?

   • ANSWER:
     I never used a toilet lock and luckily my little girl never showed any interest in it..I would wait and see what they go for and then buy the extras like that…of course I had elicrical outlet covers…I also had corner covers on the coffee tables to stop banged heads…my sister had a thing on her gas cooker so they didnt turn the gas on…I had stair gates and a fire guard…that was it I think.

6. QUESTION:
   Any safety devices to keep babies from unplugging items from electrical outlets?
   We have plenty of outlet covers, locks, etc but the babies seem obsessed with trying to unplug anything currently occupying an outlet – are there any devies out there that “lock” a plug into an outlet so that a baby cannot easily pull it out?

   • ANSWER:
     This is what you want, they are awesome:

     http://www.safety1st.com/product.asp?productID=170

7. QUESTION:
   How to prepare toddlers for new baby…?
   I just found out I am pregnant, due in October. I have two daughters, who will be 4 and 3 when the baby is born. My main concern is them hurting the baby. Not intentionally, but like trying to pick it up or tipping over the crib or something. I can’t watch them every second, and they are pretty quick(and sneaky!!). My oldest daughter knows how to get child safety door locks open. What can I do to help prepare THEM for the baby?

   • ANSWER:
     Buy them baby dolls of there own and show them how to hold the baby correctly in a way that will not hurt them. Explain to them the rules of being around the baby. That if they want to hold the baby they need to be sitting down on the couch and just tell them they need to only walk around the crib and look were they are walking so that they don’t trip.

8. QUESTION:
   What do i do when baby gates/locks stop working?
   My 22 month old son has started climbing the baby gates and now he can get into stuff with the safety locks on them. He keeps going into the bathroom and getting into everything and theres cleaning stuff and chemicals so i have to find a way to keep him out of there but what else can i do when that stuff stops working? We have a babygate blocking the stairs to our basement (theres no way to put a door there) and if he tries climbing that hes gonna fall down 10 cement stairs…

   What do you do when that stuff stops working? I try and watch him but i babysit 2 other kids so i cant be everywhere he is all the time.

   • ANSWER:
     pop his little butt when he looks like hes about to climb that gate. but dont use the smack as the lesson.. use a pop on the butt to get his attention and then tell him NO it is not ok to climb the gate.

     i bet a smack would feel better than busting his head on those cement stairs.

Child Safety Products

Author: Richard Armen

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/child-safety-products-1770776.html

About the Author

Resist Attack has a full range of pepper spray to keep you and your family safe. Also check for current specials on a garrett metal detector

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   how do i get rid of rear Child safety windows?
   the windows dont even get half way down.
   which i think is dumb.
   if i dont want a baby falling out i would just lock the windows in place.

   • ANSWER:
     It is actually to keep children from sticking their hands out the window; it is not to keep babies from falling out the window.

     If you do not like it, you can get another car. It is not something that you can remove from an existing car.

2. QUESTION:
   Does it mess up the windows or motor if i remove the child safety window locks?
   I have a 2002 Maxima if that matters. I was wondering if it would mess up any parts in the door if the safety stuff was removed.

   • ANSWER:
     If you are talking about the rear windows that only go down halfway then yes you will destroy the rear window regulators if you tamper with this……..

     There is no way that this can be altered without ruining them…..

3. QUESTION:
   lower child safety windows in 05 dodge stratus sxt?
   is there any way to lower the rear passenger sides windows?

   • ANSWER:
     no they only go half way down on all those cars,that was the way they designed them to work,its safety feature and also a design feature,good luck.

4. QUESTION:
   child safety window locks!!! fit to old windows?
   my flat has old windows not double glazing single panel windows that swing outward and have a metal frame does anyone have similar windows and can you recommend a brand or type of lock that I can get to stop my son opening the windows !! They do have a catch but becauset they are old windows the catch doesn’t always work. We live in the channel islands so there are not many places I can shop around in to find the right one

   • ANSWER:
     try this site its where i got my window locks for my old windows

5. QUESTION:
   How do I disengage the child safety lock for the windows on a 1993 Chevrolet?

   • ANSWER:
     i don’t know if it’s the same, but there’s a little white switch or something on the door by the hinge.

6. QUESTION:
   does anyone know where I can buy child safety locks for windows?

   • ANSWER:
     I usually find the odd sized child safety stuff in the “One Step Ahead catalog. Or at Babies R US.

7. QUESTION:
   What are the rules, if any, for fitting child safety locks onto windows in houses with children in the UK?

   • ANSWER:
     i googled this, and couldn’t find any laws or regulations that require you to install window locks, but here is a website that sells products you may be interested in

     http://www.safetots.co.uk/page–Child-Safety-Tips–safety

8. QUESTION:
   How do you install child window guards with window air conditioners?
   I’m trying to install an air conditioner in a window which also has to have child safety window guards. To start I’m properly installing the air conditioner with a good bracket, but the window is 48 inches wide (and the AC is 18 inches wide) so the rest of the window isn’t guarded. It is a very shallow window, only about 3 inches from the start of the windowsill on the inside to the outside of the frame. Am I stuck with putting plywood in the rest of the window? I’d like to be able to take it out of the window for the winter.

   Thanks!

   • ANSWER:
     there are safety window locks that screw anywhere on to a window frame, go to any local hardware store and they should carry them ( very effective and easy to install )

Graco baby car seats are one of the comfortable seats for your babies

Author: Richard Morrisson

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/graco-baby-car-seats-are-one-of-the-comfortable-seats-for-your-babies-1107045.html

About the Author

The Author is a professional writer, presently writing for graco baby strollers

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Is there a rating for the safety of a car seat?
   I just bought a convertible car seat for my 1 year old. His father and grandmother are afriad that it’s going to “break in half” if we get into a wreck. They said there is some kind of rating system for the safety of all car seats. All I can find is convience ratings and a statement saying that all car seats are safe because they all have to pass the govornments tests. So am I missing something? If I am I will definetly check into it since this is my baby’s safety but I can’t find any safety ratings.
   Also, if anyone actually has wrecked in one how did that go? It’s a Cosco Scenera 22197ANQ.

   • ANSWER:
     Try this site…

     http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/Ease-of-Use

2. QUESTION:
   How to pick a car seat? Convertible or infant to start?
   It seems a little silly to purchase two seats in just a few months, but I’m wondering if the infant ones are safer or something?
   Also, where can you find the safety ratings for baby gear? I tried consumer reports and apparently you have to pay and subscribe. Surely you don’t have to pay to know the safety of the equipment you need to purchase!!!
   Thanks girls, really appreciate any help here! I went looking yesterday and was so confused….
   Geez Derek easily offended? I think it’s pretty obvious I wasn’t trying to upset anyone. You’re moodier than me and I’m pregnant, lol!!

   • ANSWER:
     The only time an infant bucket seat is safer than a convertible is if baby is on the smaller side (>5 to around 7lbs) Otherwise all seats have to pass the same tests for rear facing, then a different test for forward facing with convertible seats.

3. QUESTION:
   Is it true that “all car seats are the same” …?
   My aunt has a 2 1/2 year old and today she bought her a new car seat. The least inexpensive one that Graco makes from Wal-Mart. I am 7 months pregnant and on my registry I have a travel system with the infant car seat and then a convertible car seat – Alpha Omega Elite. I have done a lot of research and they get pretty much equivalent ratings as the Britax car seats, but I just like this one better. Anyway, she told me not to spend that much money on a car seat because “all car seats are the same”. I know that they all have certain safety measures that they have to meet, but there are some with extra features. I brought it to her attention that yes I might pay 0 for a convertible car seat, but I won’t have to buy a new one, unless God forbid I am in a wreck or something, where as she buys car seats as my cousin grows. So really she has spent as much money upgrading car seats as I plan to, if I do not get it for my baby shower, on one car seat for my daughter, that will fit her up to 100lbs! I would just like opinions… Am I wrong? Are all car seats the same? I know that when I read reviews and product info, they do not all offer the same features.

   • ANSWER:
     They don’t get equivalent ratings, that’s BS. They’re not all the same. They don’t offer the same features and they’re not crash tested at the same speeds. The industry minimum speed of crash testing is 30 mph. That’s where Evenflo, Graco, Cosco, Safety 1st, and Baby Trend crash test their seats. At 35 mph in a study done in Chicago, the seats actually shattered on impact, leaving the baby and/or toddler ejected from the car still in the harness, but not in the frame of the seat. Britax, Combi, Peg Perego, Sunshine Kids, and Recaro are tested at higher speeds. Britax seats have a stainless steel frame coated with plastic, side impact protection foam, and then the padding. Graco, Evenflo, Safety 1st, and Cosco only use plastic for their frames.

     The Alpha Omega Elite is a crappy seat. It doesn’t really hold your child to the weight and height limits of the seat due to poor design, and the straps twist and are slippery which reduces their effectiveness in a crash. You are much better off with a Britax Marathon or Decathalon which will last you longer in a 5 pt harness and are safer as a whole.

     EDIT: You want a seat that has a high weight limit while IN a 5 pt harness. The Alpha Omega Elite only harnesses to 40 lbs, and it’s a booster after that. The booster doesn’t position the belt well.

     EDIT: All seats meet the same MINIMUM. Some brands meet that minimum, while others exceed it. I’d like to think I’m putting my child in the seat that has tested better at MAXIMUM speeds and number of tests. The fact of the matter is that the government isn’t testing the seats–the companies are. They test at a speed of 30 mph at a frontal impact crash. That’s it! That’s how seats are required by law to be tested.

     Some companies go above and beyond that requirement and test them at higher speeds and different types of crashes. Those companies include Britax, Peg Perego, Maxi Cosi, Sunshine Kids, and Recaro. Britax, Recaro, and Sunshine Kids also test their seats in different positions in the vehicle AND use different sized dummies in the tests to represent your growing child. They test at 45 mph as a minimum and they do frontal, side, and rear impacts.

     Some companies test their seats at the bare minimum– 30 mph, with 1 dummy at the seat’s medium weight requirement in a front end crash. Those companies are Evenflo, Safety 1st, Cosco Juvenile Group (the makers of the Alpha Omega Elite), BabyTrend, and Graco.

     There is CLEARLY a huge difference. The problem is that many people aren’t informed and choose to rely on the box and the price to determine which seat is best.

4. QUESTION:
   About how old is a 30 lb baby?
   HI guys–

   I ended up with two car seats as gifts– the same brand! ha. The thing is, they got GREAT safety ratings and its defintely the brand I want. The thing is, only one of our 2 cars are currently “baby safe”– I drive a Ford Ranger and even though you can turn the airbag off, I dont think I’ll be putting baby in my truck at all.

   We’ll be buying a second baby-safe car in mid or late summer. Baby is due this month, so she’ll already be 4+ months old then. The seat is rated for up to 30 lbs.

   Should we keep both and plan to use the second one in 4 months or should I return it and get a larger seat when we get the second car? I dont know how hold a 30lb kid is…..

   • ANSWER:
     Mty daughter is 2 and weighs 32 pounds, check to see if the car seat has a height requirement as well, some do. You can buy car seats that go from 22 pounds up to 80 pounds, so it is a front facing seat until the child is 40 pounds and then turns into a booster until they are 80 pounds. I’d return the seat and look for one like that.

5. QUESTION:
   Forward Facing Car Seat?
   We have a little girl that out grew her car seat. She is 9 months and 20 pounds. We found a car seat that has superb safety ratings but it is a forward facing seat. We have heard that infants should be facing the rear until 12 months old. Is facing our baby forward going to put her into danger?? The car seat is for someone her weight……

   • ANSWER:
     20 lbs AND 1 yr. is the MINIMUM requirement. If you got pulled over (in Illinois and Wisconsin for sure), not only would you be fined, but DCFS would be contacted and they’d come investigate you due to child endangerment. The best carseat you can get is the Britax Marathon or the Sunshine Kids Radian 80–both can be used rear facing until 35 lbs and forward facing to 65 for the Britax and 80 for the Sunshine Kids.

     Rear facing is ALWAYS safest. It’d be safest for adults, too, if it would work! Her neck is not strong enough to sustain her life in the event of a crash. Infant and even toddler necks are not fully developed and the space between vertebrae and the skull is quite large. If her neck snaps forward in a crash, it will separate and she will be internally decapitated. If she’s rear facing, the carseat will absorb the impact of the crash.

     Also, if you’re looking at an Evenflo, Graco, Cosco (or Eddie Bauer), or Safety 1st seat, know that these seats are safety tested at 25-30 mph. Britax and Sunshine Kids test their seats at a minimum of 50 mph. Also, when they safety test seats, they use them with the straps on correctly–Evenflo and Cosco seats’ straps twist really easily, which is a major safety hazard, yet it seems unavoidable. Graco and Safety 1st have chest clips that are really easy to unbuckle and they slide up and down the harness really easily, regardless of how tight the harness is on your child. So, just because it’s been given a good safety rating doesn’t mean it has been deemed safe by consumers–know HOW it got the rating–does it pass the minimums or does it exceed them?

6. QUESTION:
   Looking for Best Car Seat Travel System that meets my needs?
   Hello all! I’m looking for a travel system with the following (I’m hoping it exists!!):

   1.) Excellent safety ratings of course
   2.) Car seat that adjusts as the baby gets older (up to 40-60 lbs. maybe)
   3.) Removable car seat with stroller
   4.) Stroller that can also be used without car seat
   5.) Ease of use would also be great.

   Everything I’m finding so far has most of these options, but not all. Does this exist? Thanks so much!!! Willing to spend up to 0 but open to all options.

   • ANSWER:

7. QUESTION:
   Best Mommie Vehicle?
   I am 15 weeks pregnant and soon my husband and I will need to purchase a new (or used) vehicle. I am interested in one that will last us through the baby stage (car seat facing backwards) and into toddler stage (forward facing car seat).

   we prefer a car or small SUV/Van/Wagon that has excellent safety ratings, an easily accessible back seat (for putting babies in and out), affordable, and ALSO gets great gas mileage (a lot to ask!) The problem with our car now is a rear facing baby seat would require the front seats to be pushed all the way up!

   I assume by posting this question in the toddler stage of pregnancy, moms and dads will have some good suggestions of what works and doesn’t work for them. SO, if you have a particular car that you like (or hate), please tell me about it. I am very interested in ease of use and gas mileage.

   Thanks for all your help

   • ANSWER:
     I drive a 2004 Passat sedan with automatic transmission that I paid k for (brand new). It gets about 25-32 mpg (city/hwy), depending on how I drive (I have a lead foot).

     LATCH installs in the backseat are very easy. There are only two sets of LATCH anchors – they’re outboard, and the inner anchors cannot be used to install a carseat with LATCH in the center position. All three seating positions have locking seatbelts, so you can put a seat in any of the three positions. All three seating positions have a top tether.

     I have installed the Britax Marathon rear-facing behind the driver seat with LATCH, forward-facing in both outboard positions with LATCH, and it is currently forward-facing in the center position with the seatbelt.

     I have installed the Eddie Bauer 3-in-1 forward-facing in the center position. The seat tilted to the side a little because there’s a little bump in the center of the rear seat, but it was in there tight. I had to remove the base on the 3-in-1. And, I could not get it installed as tightly as I would have liked, in either outboard position. Then again, this is not my favorite seat.

     I have installed the Evenflo Triumph forward-facing outboard with LATCH. I could not get it in as tightly as I would have liked it to be – my leather seats did not want to grip on to that flat base on the Triumph.

     I have installed the Sunshine Kids Radian forward-facing outboard with LATCH. This seat is in our other vehicle so I’ve not had a lot of experience with it in the center, or with the seatbelt.

     If you have more questions, check out www.car-seat.org. There are certified child passenger safety technicians on the forum who will be happy to help! hth!

8. QUESTION:
   Britax Boulevard convertible car seat?
   Does anyone currently own and use a Britax Boulevard convertible car seat? Are you happy with it? Were you able to find safety ratings for it? Consumer Reports doesn’t include it (not sure why). Is it easy to use? Have you used it on a flight? Is it easy to install? Have you used it in the rear-facing position and has your baby comfortable in it in that position? Is a toddler comfortable in it? My baby is almost 6 months old and quite a big baby and he needs to be out of his infant seat. He’s very uncomfortable in it. I’m debating between the Britax Roundabout, Britax Marathon, and Britax Boulevard. Thanks

   • ANSWER:
     Britax Roundabout (*est. 0)
     Best convertible car seat.
     While it may seem like an expensive purchase at first glance, the Roundabout is the least expensive Britax car seat. In crash tests and car seat reviews, the Roundabout has proven itself one of the safest car seats on the market, and parents say it is easy to install and to use. The Roundabout can be used in the rear-facing position for babies up to 33 pounds, making it a solid choice for kids who may outgrow other rear-facing seats before they’re one year old. In the front-facing position, the Roundabout is rated for kids up to 40 pounds. This car seat is smaller and less bulky than the Britax Boulevard, but the Boulevard can be used for kids up to 65 pounds, so you’d be able to use it longer.

     Britax Boulevard (*est. 0)
     Best luxury car seat.
     While 0 is a lot to spend on a car seat, the Boulevard has a bunch of extra features, such as added EPS foam to protect baby’s head in a side-impact crash. There’s a removable infant pillow so that babies fit more securely in the seat. A belly pad and padded harness also add comfort. Car-seat reviews say the Britax Boulevard is larger and bulkier than many car seats, but unlike other convertible car seats, the Boulevard is rated for kids up to 65 pounds (most seats only accommodate kids up to 40 pounds), so this seat can be used much longer. Though expensive, the Britax Boulevard has almost every feature a parent could want, along with Britax’s excellent record for safety.

     Evenflo Triumph 5 (*est. 0)
     Best value.
     This seat doesn’t get the overwhelming praise of Britax car seats in reviews, and experts say it’s not quite as easy to use, but the Evenflo Triumph 5 rates just as well for safety, has plenty of plush padding, and costs a lot less. Car-seat eviews say the front-positioned harness adjustments makes them difficult to access in the rear-facing position, and the tether may only be used forward-facing, unlike the Roundabout and Boulevard car seats. With fewer frills than the Roundabout, the Evenflo is a more economical, yet just as safe choice. It is rated for infants from 5 to 30 pounds while rear-facing, and up to 40 pounds in the front-facing position.

     Graco ComfortSport (*est. )
     Basic convertible car seat.
     Car-seat reviews say the ComfortSport is a safe, affordable seat with few frills. The Graco car seat isn’t as comfortable as the Britax car seats, but reviews say it’s a good choice for a second car. This seat doesn’t recline at all, so many parents say it’s not as comfortable for infants. There are several versions of the ComfortSport. Pricier versions have more head padding and removable cup holders, which parents seem to like.

     —
     Full review below

     The best car-seat review can be found in Consumer Reports, which conducts in-house crash testing, conducting similar tests to those performed by the federal government. The book Baby Bargains also offers a wealth of information on baby gear. While editors don’t conduct crash testing, they examine every other aspect of the car seats, and also compare their own reviews to that of Consumer Reports, explaining any discrepancies between the two. The Baby Bargains Web site contains updates to the information provided in the book.

     The third and final site that is top-marked in our review section is the official site of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which offers a comprehensive ease-of-use rating system. This system assigns each seat a grade of “A,” “B” or “C” to a variety of aspects regarding the car-seat, including ease of installation and the complexity of the instructions. While this is helpful, it’s not nearly as comprehensive as the car-seat reviews found in Consumer Reports and Baby Bargains.

     Convertible seats serve a few purposes. First, they are an alternative for those that do not wish to buy three car seats, since they can generally hold an infant from birth until the child has reached 40 pounds (or as high as 65 pounds for some convertible car seats). Most experts say that a child should be in a dedicated infant car seat for the first year due to the recline of the seat and the fact that most infant seats can be taken out of the car without waking the baby, causing less stress for new parents.

     The second and generally intended purpose of convertible car seats is to hold children who are too large for an infant car seat, yet still under a year and need to be rear-facing in the car. Convertible car seats can face the rear until the child is of the right height and weight, at which time they can be switched around (or converted) to face the front. It is estimated by experts that most children will require a convertible car seat at some point.

     Britax, a company that has been marketing car seats for the US market for ten years, sweeps reviewers’ picks for the best convertible car seats, even though they are more expensive — sometimes by twice as much — as other convertible car seats. Parents an