Car Seat Inserts For Newborns
Most infant and convertible car seat inserts are provided to help the child fit better in the car and to be more comfortable. Inserts can be removed when the child is at the weight limit set in the manual of the car seat.
Always use the inserts included with your car seat. Anything else is risky and could cause your baby to get squeezed or straps that aren't at right height.
It helps your baby's sit position
A car seat insert designed for infants lets your baby to sit higher up in the car seat. This insert assists in securing the harness straps and stops the slouching that can put your baby at risk of injury if there's a crash. The padding helps lift your child's head and reduces the distance between their lower and the lowest set of harness strap slots making sure they're secured in the rear-facing car seat and that their head isn't too close to the straps that connect their crotches (which can restrict airflow).
If you're using a convertible car seat, the newborn insert is removed when your child reaches a certain weight or height limit. This typically occurs between 5 and 6 months old. Go through the manual to determine whether there are any specific instructions. Also, ensure that the harness straps of your child are at or lower than their shoulders. They may have to be adjusted after removing the insert.
Certain head supports, such as those included in infant seats, may cause the child's head to tilt backwards. This could limit their airway and put their safety in danger. Read the instructions in the car seat manual or on the website of the manufacturer to determine the best time and method for using these head supports should be used.
Make sure to use only the insert included with your child's car seat. Never use a makeshift solution, such as a burp cloth or rolled-up blanket behind their head. Each car seat is tested to ensure that all components function. Using any other insert may hinder the testing process and could compromise your child's security.
The "pinch test" is the most effective way to make sure that your child is secure in the seat. You should not be able pinch any slack at the shoulder between your finger and harness. If you have any doubts seek out a certified child Safety Technician for Passenger Safety or call the customer service line to seek help.
Supports for your baby's neck and head
A newborn insert is a cushion designed to help your baby's head and neck. This is because newborns have not yet developed the muscles that allow them to lift their heads on their own. Newborn car seat inserts lift your baby's head to ensure they can reach the smallest set of shoulder strap slots and also help keep their head from sliding forward (which could restrict their airways).
Some infant seats include newborn inserts. Other companies sell head supports that are specifically designed to be used in car seat. Before adding padding to your child's car seat, check the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure that you are using the infant insert or head support safely.
The infant inserts and head support that are included in many car seats are designed to provide the extra padding needed for newborns and smaller babies. These can be two separate items that provide greater flexibility in adjustment or one unit that is more compact for support.
If you choose to use an infant head support or insert, bear in mind that your child will outgrow it before they reach the maximum weight and size for their car seat. Do not use burp or blanket cloths as makeshift car seat inserts for newborns, as these can interfere with the proper placement of the infant's head and neck and put them at risk for injury in the event of an accident.
Many parents believe that the pillow-like head supports included in certain infant seats or sold separately will aid their newborn to stay safe in a crash by aiding in preventing a chin-to-chest position. It's not the case. In fact, research indicates that adding an insert or head support to the infant's seat could cause the head to slump forward, placing it in a dangerous position. In addition, using a soft object like a rolled receiving blanket or a burp cloth instead of the newborn car seat insert could potentially void your infant seat's warranty.
Keeps the head of your baby in its natural position
If you've ever held a baby you're aware that they require additional head support in order to keep their tiny heads up. This is why infant car seats come with a padded infant insert that can help your baby sit in a secure position. The newborn inserts are small pillows that fit in the seat to provide a comfortable seat for your baby. This is essential, especially when traveling long distances. It can help your baby sleep and remain awake throughout the journey.
The newborn insert will also ensure that your baby's head is placed in a healthy, natural way. This is particularly important in rear-facing cars, where the infant's head can become obstructed if it slumps forward. The insert raises the child's head to allow them to reach the lowest shoulder strap slots. It also pushes the head back, reducing the chance of getting choked. It is important to note that you should always check the manual for your car seat to find specific instructions on when to remove the newborn insert and when to remove it, as it may provide an age or weight limit.
As your baby gets older they'll naturally outgrow the newborn car seat insert. As your baby grows, they'll naturally outgrow the infant car seat insert.
It is important to check the harness before removing the infant insert from the car of your baby. You can test this by performing a pinch test. In this test, you put your finger in the gap between the strap on your shoulder and the chest of your baby. If the gap is large or there's a lot of slack, you need to put the infant insert back in.
Although there are different car seat accessories on the market that you could apply to your newborn but it's best to stick with the infant insert supplied by your car seat's manufacturer. This is because they're made specifically for your baby's car seat and will be the most effective in making sure they're safe during travel.
Helps keep your baby comfy
The insert for newborns is an infant car seat accessory that ensures babies are at ease and secure. It's an additional layer of padding that raises your baby up a little to ensure that the harness straps are on or below their shoulders (if they're in a rear-facing car seat). Your baby may not be able to sit high enough so that their harness can be adjusted properly without the insert.
A newborn insert can also be a good idea since it will make it more likely that your baby's chin away from their chest. Many new parents believe that the pillow-like head piece that comes with some carseats, or the rolled receiving blanket or burp cloth parents are advised to put on their child's head, will protect their child's head in the event of a crash. However, these extra padding pieces can actually make the chin-to-chest positioning worse, as they compress in the event of a crash.
They are easy to use and a great option to keep your baby happy while driving. They're typically made of foam or cloth that is inserted under the car seat in order to lift up the bottom of the seat. Some include a head hugger and a cushion which both are placed under the child's head to lift them up, while others are just head huggers on their own.
The car seat inserts designed for infants can be removed when the infant is big enough to fit in without them. The majority of manufacturers have a recommended weight or height. Pushchairs And Prams should always follow the instructions in your car seat manual for this information.
It's best to consult an expert if you're unsure whether or not your baby is ready to quit using the newborn car seat insert. A CPST can give you useful advice to make sure your baby is using their car seat safely. A consultation can be added to your registry to give your loved children peace of mind as you travel with your baby in the back seat.