Why Car Seat Safety Matters
As parents, we do everything we can to create a safe sleep environment for our babies at home - but what about in the car? During Safer Sleep Week (10th-16th March 2025), we’re highlighting the importance of car seat safety and how to reduce risks while traveling.
Car seats are designed to keep babies safe during travel, but they are not intended for prolonged sleep. Research shows that extended periods in a car seat can lead to breathing difficulties, especially for newborns and premature babies. That’s why it’s crucial to follow best practices when using a car seat.
Top Car Seat Safety Tips for Parents
To keep your baby safe on the go, here are some essential car seat safety tips:
✅ Limit Time in the Car Seat – Try to minimize the amount of time your baby spends in the car seat, especially if they are a newborn or were born prematurely. Stick to 30 minutes until they are six weeks old. Prolonged periods in a semi-upright position can restrict airflow and cause discomfort. Lie-Flat car seats DO NOT increase time in the car seat.
⏸️ Take Regular Breaks – Plan for regular stops during longer journeys to check on your baby. Give them the opportunity to stretch and move in a safe environment.
👀 Keep an Eye on Your Baby – Use a baby mirror or have an adult sit in the back seat to keep watch. This ensures you can quickly respond if your baby’s position becomes unsafe.
🚨 Stop Immediately If Your Baby Slumps Forward – A slumped position can restrict airflow and cause breathing issues. If this happens, pull over safely and reposition your baby.
🔄 Choose Rear-Facing for Maximum Protection – Rear-facing car seats offer better head, neck, and spine protection in a crash. Keep your child rear-facing as long as possible within the seat’s weight and height limits.
🔑 Ensure Proper Installation and Fit – A car seat must be correctly installed and securely fitted to your child. When you purchase from Car Seats Plus you get unlimited installation support and fit checks whether you are local or further away we can still support you remotely.
💤 Car Seats Are for Travel, Not Sleep – While it’s common for babies to fall asleep in the car, a car seat is not a safe long-term sleep space. Move your baby to a flat, firm sleep surface as soon as you arrive at your destination.
Need Expert Car Seat Advice?
At Car Seats Plus, we’re here to help parents choose the safest car seat for their child and vehicle. If you have any concerns about fit, installation, or choosing the right seat, book an appointment with us today. Your baby’s safety is always our top priority!