Archive for December, 2005
In search of strollers: Graco Mosaic LX
Written by jlz on December 1, 2005 – 3:40 pm -One of my task is to find a stroller for anZel. I haven’t done a whole lot of research but I have been hearing lots of good recommendation for Graco products. So I went to their website to check out their products. Found this really cool looking and compact product called Mosaic LX Stroller.
It seems to have all the right features plus it seems very easy to fold down and store. The cost is about $130.
Does anyone have experience with this product?
Posted in Equipment, Strollers | 1 Comment »In search of car seats: don’t buy used car seats
Written by jlz on December 1, 2005 – 8:11 am -As I am researching the pros and cons of various types of car seats, a warning that I see most is – Don’t buy used car seats! There are several major objections to buying used car seats.
First, you never know if the car seat has been in an accident! Even the smallest fender-benders can have the potential of damaging the plastics of a car seat. Some of these fractures may not be visible without really close inspection and even then, sometimes they can be missed.
Second, the plastic, over time, can break down due to temperature change or extended exposure to the Sun (UV). This is especially true if you live in a climate that has very hot or very cold temperatures. These little cracks, again, may not be visible immediately. Be extremely cautious if you are looking at a used car seat that’s over 5-6 years old. That’s usually the time when cracking will happen.
Third, the car seat in question may have been involved in a recall that you are not aware of. This one is easier to check. Take down the brand and model number, check the manufacturer’s web site to ensure it has not been involved in recalls. It’s especially easy these days with all these search engines around, so don’t be lazy!
Fourth, car seats are dated and they expire!! After the expiration date, the car seat should be disposed. Also, safety standards can change from year to year, so an up-to-date car seat is very important in keeping your child safe.
Fifth, sanitation can be a huge concern for many people. As you all know, babies can output in many different ways and in many different forms (top, bottom, liquid, solid, etc, sorry for being so graphical). Who knows what that used car seat has been through. Even though it may look clean, it might have little things called lice that are running around.
Last but not least, used car seat may be missing necessary manuals or pamphlets. These documents allow you to figure out how to properly use the car seat. It may not sound like a huge deal, but again, it’s better safe than sorry.
At the end of the day, your child’s safety is the most important thing. If you get a nice convertible, even if it’s a bit more expensive (e.g. $200), it can last for 3-4 years. That’s only $50-$60 a year. That’s really nothing compare to your child’s safety.
Posted in Car Seats, Equipment | No Comments »