What should caregivers inspect regularly on car seats to ensure safety?

Caregivers should regularly inspect the expiration date and recall status of car seats to ensure safety because these factors are crucial in determining whether a car seat is still safe to use. Car seats have a defined lifespan, usually indicated by the expiration date, after which they may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash due to the degradation of materials or changes in safety standards.

Additionally, checking the recall status is vital because manufacturers may identify potential safety issues after a car seat has been sold. If a car seat has been recalled for safety reasons, it may require repairs, replacement parts, or even complete replacement. Keeping up with these aspects helps caregivers ensure that the car seat remains effective in protecting the child during travel.

Focusing on the aesthetics, warranty, or manufacturer's branding does not affect the fundamental safety of the car seat. While these aspects may be important for consumer purchases or general satisfaction, they do not contribute to the functional protection of a child in a vehicle.