Many parents are aware that putting children in car seats while dressed in bulky winter coats can be dangerous. If you’re unfamiliar with this issue, let’s break it down.
According to pediatrician and car seat safety expert, Dr. Sarah Mitchell, who runs The Car Seat Guide, winter coats and snowsuits can add roughly 4 inches of extra bulk to the harness straps. Items like the “Cozy Bundle” also create problems because they add thickness behind the child’s back, which can loosen the harness.
In the event of a car accident, the impact compresses the coat or snowsuit, leaving your child dangerously loose in their seat. Since the harness is the primary safety feature, it’s crucial that it fits snugly. A loose harness can propel your child further out of their seat during a crash, increasing the risk of injury or even fatality. This is a serious issue.
For those still unconvinced about the dangers of dressing children in bulky winter gear for car rides, I recommend watching this informative video from The Car Seat Guide.
Alternatives for Keeping Your Child Warm
Now that you understand the risks, let’s discuss alternatives for keeping your child warm during the winter months. Even if you’re committed to avoiding puffy coats, it can be tricky to figure out how to dress your child in freezing temperatures. I’ve faced disapproving looks from onlookers when my kids are in their car seats without coats, so you’re not alone.
If you’re unsure how to safely and warmly outfit your child for the car seat, relax! There are simple and affordable ways to ensure your little one stays cozy and secure.
Dr. Mitchell emphasizes that keeping your child safe in their car seat during winter doesn’t mean letting them freeze. “No child should be cold in the car,” she told Parenting Weekly. She offers some essential guidelines for choosing appropriate attire for your child in the car.
Layering Guidelines
Firstly, she suggests layering appropriately based on the expected length of the car ride. For short trips—where the car will remain cold throughout—dress your child warmly. However, during longer rides, you may want to opt for lighter layers to avoid overheating. “Don’t let your child freeze, but also don’t let them overheat,” is her philosophy.
Layering is key, taking into account the weather, the car ride’s duration, and your child’s comfort. Regardless of how you dress your child, Dr. Mitchell advises keeping a winter coat in the car for emergencies, like a breakdown.
So, how should you layer? Start from the inside out with snug, form-fitting clothing to prevent added bulk. For instance, dress your baby in a onesie and leggings, add a long-sleeve shirt, and a fitted sweater. Finish with a light fleece jacket and pants, which Dr. Mitchell recommends for their warmth without bulkiness.
If needed, a blanket can be used to keep your child warm—especially on their legs, as they often kick off blankets from their chests. Alternatively, you can put their bulky winter coat on backward, with the back facing outward, and their arms through the sleeves after securing the harness.
Dr. Mitchell suggests using 2 to 4 thin, snug layers to ensure warmth without overheating.
Safe Coat Options
What if you’re set on using a coat or snowsuit? There are safe options available that provide warmth without compromising safety. The thinner and more form-fitting, the better! Dr. Mitchell emphasizes that any coat you choose must fit snugly.
For fleece, she recommends options from the Columbia line: the Steens Mt II for boys and the Benton Springs for girls. These cozy options are budget-friendly and durable. For full-body suits, the Snowtop II Bunting from Columbia is a good choice as long as it fits well, as is the Infant Oso One Piece from The North Face, though it’s on the pricier side.
If you’re open to investing in a coat that can be passed down, consider the OneKid Road Coat, specially designed for car seats. It can keep your child warm in temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit, and there’s even a vegan version available. These coats feature a “double zipper system,” allowing you to zip your child in without adding bulk, and then zip the outer layer for extra warmth once outside.
Super-thin down coats that compress into small bags are also excellent choices, provided they fit properly and don’t extend past the waistline, which could lead to unsafe bulk under the straps.
Testing for Safety
Regardless of which options you choose, it’s essential to ensure they are safe. Dr. Mitchell recommends a simple test:
- Dress your child in their winter gear and tighten the car seat harness snugly around them.
- Without loosening the straps, remove your child from the seat and take off their winter gear.
- Place them back in the seat to check for any slack in the harness.
If the harness remains snug, you’re in the clear. If not, the gear may be too bulky for safe use.
I understand this may feel overwhelming, but there are numerous safe options to keep your child warm and secure this winter. It’s vital to adhere to these guidelines—car seat safety is not negotiable. With car accidents being a leading cause of child fatalities, your child’s safety is paramount.
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Summary
Ensuring your child’s safety in a car seat during winter months requires avoiding bulky winter coats, which can compromise harness security. Instead, opt for layered, snug-fitting clothing and consider safe outerwear options designed for car seat use. It’s crucial to adhere to car seat safety guidelines to protect your child during travel.