Becoming a parent comes with costly propositions, duties, and responsibilities. Apart from having to convert one of your bedrooms, you should invest in bassinets, cribs, strollers, and toys. If you intend to travel somewhere, be it to the hospital, on a road trip, or to your nearest shopping mall, you will certainly need a baby car seat.
With uncertainties in employment and budgets increasingly becoming strapped, most parents think of taking shortcuts and picking second-hand items where possible. While this can help in some situations, experts don’t recommend purchasing second-hand seats. Below are a few reasons why new seats from suppliers like Diono are better than after-market seats:
Car Seats Expire
While car seats generally have a six to 10-year lifespan, very few maintain good condition beyond six years. Even though there are no government regulations on the expiry dates, manufacturers typically set these dates based on the safety testing and typical usage. Seats should also adhere to the frequently changing CPSC and NHSTA regulations.
Car Seats Are Subject to Wear and Tear
Car seats are also affected by high temperatures during summer and extreme cold during winter. Exposure to these changing temperatures and harsh direct sunlight gradually degrades the plastic. With this, you can only be certain that the seat is in its best condition if it is new.
You Don’t Have the Crash History
Unlike purchasing a new seat, you can’t be sure of the usage history of a second-hand seat. Most car seat manufacturers recommend the replacement of car seats even after a minor accident. Even if the car seat appears visibly safe, you can’t be sure if the crash compromised the physical integrity.
New Products Have New Features
Another benefit of buying new car seats over used seats is the presence of new feature improvements. Manufacturers always make design improvements that enhance the safety of modern car seats. Purchasing modern seats ensures a safe and sturdy seat that holds your child during your trips.
Car Seats Are Often Recalled
These can be recalled by manufacturers over some identified faults. Before buying a used seat, you should determine if the seat you intend to purchase hasn’t been recalled. While recalled seats can still be used and don’t appear to have issues, they are not safe.
End Note
Car seats play a crucial role in ensuring your baby is safe in the car. However, buying a second-hand seat means trusting that the seller disclosed accurate information about the seat’s history. If a family member or close relative offers their used seat, ensure that you verify the seat’s age, expiry date, manuals and labels, crash history, and presence of original parts.
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