Car Seats 101

How to use it

A car seat's main purpose is to keep your little one safe from impact. The best car seats absorb and reduce the force of impact and protect your child. To ensure that it does its job properly, you'll need to use it the way it's meant to be used.

        • Every car seat has a harness. Typically, a 5-point harness is the best one. The straps go over the shoulders, hips, and under the belly.

        • It's important to use the harness properly as your child grows older.

        • To check if the harness is tight, test it at the shoulder, where it's most likely to be loose if not done properly. 

        • Even when your child has outgrown a toddler car seat, a booster seat will keep them safe. Its shoulder strap fits like a normal seat belt but with extra protection. 

        • Once your child reaches a point where they have outgrown the booster seat, and only if they fit properly with just a seat belt, should you stow away any extra seats.

How to install it 

Your car seat's manual is a great starting point and we'll always suggest buying car seats that are easy to install! But in case you still need help, follow these tips.

        • The back seat is usually the safest place for car seats, especially for babies and toddlers.

        • Using a seat belt is the first way to install a car seat, and your manual should show you the correct belt path. 

        • The second way to install a car seat is by using a LATCH or lower anchors and tethers for children. Be careful though, as this should only be used for children under a certain weight.

        • You need to check which method gives your car seat the best fit. A car seat that's installed properly shouldn't move more than an inch when in motion.

Updating your car seat

A question on a lot of your minds would be: when should you update your car seat? Of course, you can't use one car seat forever. Do keep in mind that your child's safety and comfort take priority above all else and there's no true rush to upgrade until completely necessary. 

To clear the confusion, we've listed out the three types of car seats, and here's when to upgrade to each: 

        • Baby car seats are ideal for newborns to 24 months. It's best to keep them rear-facing for maximum protection.

        • Next up are toddler seats. It's best to keep them rear-facing and make sure they have a lot of adjustable head and reclining positions. Also, the more leg space, the better for long-term use. 

        • When do you know it's time to move to a forward-facing or booster car seat? It's when they reach the height or weight limitations. Always check your car seat for more info! But like we said, there's no real rush and your child's safety reigns supreme. 

What about your old car seat? 

Well, don't throw it away unless necessary! There are always other moms who you could give it to. Make sure to give it with all the original parts and the manual. 

But in case your car seat expires (yes they do expire), take the car seat apart and put it in different trash bags so others don't use it.

So there you have it! Here are your car seat basics. To implement these, you'll need the perfect car seat first. Explore more on Mom Store.

Change of clothes 
You may find you require a change of clothes after the birth of your baby.  It is recommended baby has at least one hour of skin to skin contact with Mum for many evidence-based reasons.  After this, Dads can also do skin to skin contact, too.  It is a lovely way to meet and bond with your baby. 

Snacks 
I always recommend birth partners keep up their strength by eating snacks.  Sometimes birth partners cannot leave the room, so having a small bag packed with snacks is a good idea. Also ensure you keep hydrated. Keep your snacks healthy and avoid excess sugar and salt. Dried fruits and nuts are ideal.

Pillow and Blanket 
Many private hospitals have facilities for husbands to stay overnight on the postnatal ward.  Sometimes the rooms can be cold due to air conditioning, so take in a pillow and some warm covers for your comfort.  

Full Bodysuits
Five to ten long sleeve and long leg (with feet covering) baby grows or all-in-one suits. 
I recommend buying baby grows or suits with poppers or a zip which are easily opened at the front.  I also advise parents to wash all of their baby’s clothes in a non-biological detergent prior to use.  

It may be also worth packing a small clothing set for your baby to be dressed in for the first time.  Include a nappy/diaper, short sleeved baby grow, long sleeved baby grow, blanket or muslin and a hat.  If the Midwife or Nurse asks you what you would like your baby dressed in for the first time, you can forward them this set.  It makes it easier also for husbands.  

Short Sleeve Suits
Five to ten short sleeve and short leg suits. Singlets can also be used instead.  
These can be used underneath your baby’s long sleeve and leg baby grow or suit.

Cotton wool balls or cotton make up removing pads (white colour only) 
My recommendation for babies’ skin care is to keep it very natural for the first eight weeks.  You can use cotton wool and water to clean your baby during nappy/diaper changes to avoid nappy rash.  When you are out and about, you can use natural baby wipes.  If you notice your baby has a nappy rash you can use a zinc-based cream until it is resolved.  

Muslins 
These are light, soft cloths which are handy for when you are assisting your baby to let go of wind as sometimes babies can vomit during this time. You can also purchase larger muslin wraps for your baby’s cover to provide warmth. Plan to bring at least 6.   

Small hat 
For use in the hospital only.  Once home the only hat required in Dubai unless it is very cold is a sun hat.  It is important that your baby is not dressed so that they overheat.  Research suggests this can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) also known as Cot Death.  A good way to think of it is to dress your baby as you are dressed yourself with one extra layer. 

Nappies 
Newborn size nappies either disposables or cloth nappies. Some will be provided at the hospital but plan to have a dozen or so in reserve.

Going home clothes 
A set of clothes for your baby to wear to go home from the hospital.

Light blanket 
For warmth.  

Car seat 
For your baby’s safety, ensure your baby is placed in a rear facing car seat at all times.  Place your baby in first, fasten the straps and then you can place a muslin or blanket over the top. Your baby should be in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least one year of age.  If you unfortunately have a car accident, their head and neck is more optimally supported in this position.  

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Other Nice-to-Haves:

You might also want to consider bringing a nursing cover for modesty, A feeding pillow and maternity belt can also provide added comfort.

This list may seem rather robust, but rest assured the above will come in quite handy during your hospital stay. Happy birthing!