Baby seats are must-have accessories for your baby’s development. A quality baby seat helps babies sit up until they can sit on their own without a guide. Although we have picked out the best baby seats for babies that there are, you have to consider several factors before choosing one for your baby. It may be kind of tricky to make a decision but we hope this buying guide will help you choose from the best baby seats we have listed and make your purchase less time-consuming.
When does your baby need a baby seat?
Babies do not necessarily need a baby seat but the seats benefit both the parents and the babies when used correctly. It helps to promote the baby’s neck and back strength. And as a parent, you can easily tend to other things while the child is on the baby chair.
Most babies start to sit by the third to fifth month after birth with the support of their parents. By then, your baby can hold up his or her neck when held upright but will be unable to steady their back without support. The seat can then be introduced to guide them into a steady sitting position.
Babysitting supports can be used for babies who are up to 3 months old and can already hold up their neck for a while in a sitting position.
How to choose baby seats for babies
When choosing a seat for your baby, you want one that emphasizes safety, support, and comfort. Here are features to look out for before selecting a seat;
The sitting surface
Flat surfaces naturally help the baby to position the pelvis healthily while sitting on it. Some baby seats are not made in a way that would help the baby sit properly. While picking a baby seat, it is safer to choose one with a flat sitting surface. This will help to position the kid better and comfortably.
Arm support
Good chairs for babies should come with arm support. The arm support is a feature that supports the child's arm. Most baby seats come with arm support. So, the one you should look out for is that one that does not stop the baby from wobbling. Bad arm support would lock the baby’s arm and prevent free movement which can be very uncomfortable for the child.
Lower body support
To aid the baby to sit properly, the seat should come with a footrest. It should also be non-restricting. Although we want the baby’s legs and feet to feel the support of the surface, we also don’t want immobility of the legs too. Ensure the seat allows the movement of the legs to an extent.
Seat texture
You know how uncomfortable it quickly gets when you sit on a plastic surface? This is the same for babies. When choosing a seat for babies, pick one with a soft sitting surface for comfort.
Seat texture
You want to go for a baby seat that’s lightweight. A lightweight baby seat will be easy to move around and travel with.
Entertaining features
These are added features such as toys and music to help keep the baby occupied for a while. If your budget allows, you can choose a seat with fun features to delight your baby.
How much do baby seats cost?
The prices for baby floor seats vary according to brand, features, and sellers. However, you can expect to spend anywhere between $15-100.
What are the baby seat safety standards you should know?
Baby seats are very helpful and easy to use but there are certain safety tips to be kept in mind while in use.
- Do not keep the baby in for longer than necessary: You don’t want your baby having developmental issues from having kept in a stationary position for long. Use the floor seat only when needed.
- Do not leave the baby unattended: The support function of the baby seats should never be an excuse to leave the baby unattended. One of the beauties of the floor seat is mobility. You can bring the seat along even on a trip to the restroom, kitchen, garden, or laundry.
- Do not use the seat until the baby is ready to sit: As stated above, the baby should be showing certain signs before the chair can be used. Make sure the child can hold up its neck in a sitting position and is over 3 months before using the baby chair support.
- Do not let the baby sleep while on the seat: If your baby falls asleep while using the seat, unstrap him and move him to a more comfortable surface. Sleeping on the seats can cause the baby to sleep in an unsafe posture.
FAQs
Do I really need a floor seat for my baby?
Answer: No, baby floor seats are not a necessity for babies although they provide support and guide the babies to sit.
At what age can my baby use a floor seat?
Answer: Babies start to show signs that they are ready to sit from 3 months old. Notwithstanding, make sure your baby is ready to sit before using the baby floor seat. Ensure the child can hold up his neck in a sitting position even if he is past 3 months old before putting him in a floor seat.
Are baby floor seats really safe to use?
Baby floor seats are safe to use as long as you do not keep the baby in them for too long. Also, read the safety standards above for other safety tips.