Buying the proper booster seat for your child can be one of the hardest decisions parents need to make. Not only do you want a booster that is comfortable for your child, but you also want to ensure that it is safe (and meets your region’s safety standard tests).
Jon Sumroy is the CEO and inventor of mifold , the most in-demand, compact, portable and highly recognized children’s booster seats ever invented that is sold at Walmart, Target, Amazon, BuyBuyBaby and other retailers across the United States / globe.
We spoke to Jon about his Top Tips for parents to think about while buying any type of booster for their growing child.
Tip #1: ONLY BUY A BOOSTER WHEN NEEDED
Children should only start using a booster seat when they have outgrown their car seat with 5-point harness. A booster seat is designed to position the adult vehicle belt correctly on the child and they can start using a booster seat once they will sit properly in the booster seat for the duration of each trip. This means they can remain seated without (i) slouching under lap belt, (ii) moving the shoulder belt under arm or behind back, and (iii) leaning forward or sideways moving out of position.
Tip #2: READING SAFETY MANUALS ARE KEY
Always read your car’s safety manual to check the type of seat that will fit in your car.
Tip #3: SAFETY STANDARDS
Check the car seat meets the safety standards and that the car seat has all its safety label and instruction manual. Alway follow the instruction manual. (As a note: the mifold has been safety tested and meets / exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 in the USA)
Tip #4: BUY NEW!
Don’t buy a used or second hand car seat. There is a danger in buying a second hand car seat that you do not know the complete history of the seat, ie: if it was involved in a car accident. Plus newer models will adhere to newer standards.
Tip #5: PORTABLE IS EASIER
If you travel regularly or move the booster seat from car to car, for example carpooling, taxis or car sharing, consider purchasing a portable booster seat, for example mifold the grab-and-go booster that you can take with you!