While a baby car seat canopy isn’t necessary, it is encouraged. This is a simple addition, and most baby car seats come with one when you purchase it.
Though, you can also buy them separately. They are safe to use and offer many benefits.
There are plenty of colors and designs, allowing you to find the style for your baby. They are also very inexpensive.
What Is A Baby Car Seat Canopy?
A baby car seat canopy is simply a cover that sits at the top of their car seat. It can be folded back when you don’t need it to protect the child. It is best to move it back when you put the child into the seat or take them out.
This eliminates the risk of their head getting bumped on it. The car seat canopy is retractable, so it can be all the way down, all the way up, or anywhere in between.
Benefits Of A Baby Car Seat Canopy
Comfort
An infant car seat cover is primarily designed to keep your baby comfortable. You don’t want a fuss in the backseat while you try to focus on the road!
The sun in their eyes can be upsetting, so on a sunny day, you can flip the car seat canopy back to cover them and offer shade. They will be able to relax and nap while riding in the vehicle.
Outdoor Use
You may be outdoors at an event when the sun is bright. Keeping your little one shaded to prevent sunburn or dehydration is essential.
Since many car seats also click in place to fit a stroller piece, the canopy can be a great option to give them shade during those outings.
Equally, when it is cold outside, keeping your baby protected from the wind or moisture is essential.
Tossing a blanket on top of them can be dangerous. It can make it difficult for your baby to breathe properly. Even if the blanket will only be over them for a few minutes, it is best avoided.
So, the baby car seat canopy is a much better alternative.
Easy Naps
A child can easily become overagitated when they are tired or when you are on the go! Many parents find the car seat canopy allows their baby to block out what is going on around them.
When they have had enough or are ready for a nap, putting up the canopy blocks out the stimulating surroundings, so they can settle in and take a well-deserved rest.
A Little Extra Safety
The canopy in place can also serve as a barrier to keep others from touching your child.
It is natural for people to think babies are cute, but strangers touching them can put you on the defense. And with COVID-19 still around, this is especially useful.
Is A Baby Car Seat Canopy Safe?
When a baby car seat canopy is installed correctly and used properly, it is safe. Simply follow these guidelines and you shouldn’t run into any problems.
- Never place anything on top of it as it could fall off and harm your child.
- Routinely inspect the canopy for any signs of damages.
- When damaged, make sure you replace it with a new one immediately.
- If it breaks around the area where you fold it back or forward, there can be sharp plastic pieces, so routinely look there.
- If you buy a baby car seat canopy separate from a car seat, make sure it fits correctly.
The information on the product will share the models and brands it works with. The baby canopy should snap into place securely and snuggly.
Some parents worry about the canopy being in the way of them seeing their child while in the car. There are child mirrors that can be easily installed.
Since your child is facing backward, they reflect in a manner that allows you to see their face while they are turned from you.
Glancing into the back seat now and then while driving can give you peace of mind. The mirror option ensures the canopy won’t block your view!
Is A Baby Car Seat Canopy Necessary?
A baby car seat canopy isn’t essential, but most parents recommend it! It is a simple design but one that keeps the baby protected, and can help them avoid sunlight and prevent sunburn.
It can help them stay warm from the elements without a blanket over their face. Since most car seats feature one, parents always have the option to use it as needed. And, they aren’t expensive to buy.
Keeping your little one safe, comfortable, and away from germs matters!