Odds are your baby is your most frequent car companion. But depending on the day, they may not be the easiest rider. Prepping your car for their wants and needs can help make the drives a little easier.
That's where these car accessories come in. They can keep your sweet passenger happier—and maybe even a little distracted.
1. Sunshades for baby's windows. Car window shades can keep baby safe from the sun's harmful UV rays and comfortable—not cranky—on hot, sunny days. They can also minimize sun glare. Look for ones that stick directly to your windows.
2. Favorite toys. If you can, bring ones baby hasn't seen or played with recently. That makes them all the more entertaining when baby is antsy. If your little one is teething, be sure to bring along a soothing toy for tender gums.
3. Snacks for tiny tummies. Longer car rides may require stops to breastfeed or give baby a bottle. You should only do this when parked in a safe location. As baby gets older, snack options can increase to include squeeze pouches. When packing solid foods, avoid snacks that pose a choking hazard—that means no hard fruits, big crackers or raisins.
4. A backseat organizer. You need someplace to safely keep books, snacks, toys and other items. Minimize clutter with an organizer that attaches to the back seat.
5. Baby playlist. Lull your wee one to sleep on a long drive with calming lullabies. Or liven up any drive with classic sing-alongs like "The Wheels on the Bus" or "The Itsy Bitsy Spider." By all means, chime in. Make music a family affair.
Accessories to avoid
While you may want to add cute accessories to your baby's car seat, be careful. Experts say aftermarket (also known as non-regulated) products—such as head-support inserts and fuzzy strap covers—can be dangerous for babies.
Here's why: They aren't federally regulated for safety. That means they could affect the way baby's car seat works.
So before you shop, make sure any car-seat accessories you consider have been tested and approved by your car seat's manufacturer.
Sources: Safe Kids Worldwide; Zero to Three; Skin Cancer Foundation
Reviewed 2/8/2024