We use so many different pieces of equipment for our children, that knowing when to replace items before they ‘look’ worn can be difficult. A lot of the equipment that is used for infants must be changed when it still looks new so learning the appropriate times for replacing it is important.
Learning when to replace items that are regularly used for an infant is important. If your child is getting close to a year old, it is time to evaluate and assess the items you use on a regular basis.
Most people get a car seat at a baby shower or party. It may, or may not, have been in a box and you might not have gotten manufacturers instructions with it. However, the seats are designed for uses in stages of growth. Unless you got a Graco car seat that is designed to face backward until the infant is one year old, then change to a forward facing seat, you may need to replace it. Checking for wearing each year and making appropriate repairs or replacement is important.
You may have a baby bath that fits in your kitchen sink or bathtub. These are usually made of plastic and may have a back rest built in that supports the back of the infant. Many people move directly from the infant tub to a regular one because their children don’t like being laid on their back in water. In answer to this need, designers have created an alternative that is growing in popularity.
An alternative for the standard tub is a new spa baby tub. These little tubs are shaped like a flower pot in which the infant sits. The tub is small enough to provide support and security to the infant that is placed in it. Many people who begin using this tub find that their infants begin enjoying their bathing experience and are not as fearful of water.
Manufacturers also have suggested recommendations for replacement of infant furniture and equipment. There will be ages and weight maximums listed that will provide information about when to replace the furniture.
Infants grow so quickly and, as a parent we are so busy, that it is easy to lose track of those pieces of furniture that need to be replaced as our children grow. Making it a habit to check the furniture and equipment on a regular basis will allow you to plan on replacing the furniture before it becomes an urgent matter.