April 2007
Features to consider Shopping-cart covers
Versatility. Some cart covers have attached plush toys; side pockets for storing sippy cups, your cell phone, keys, and coupons; and loops for attaching toys and teethers. Some convert to a play mat or diaper bag, or can be used on high chairs, park swings, public strollers, or even as an emergency changing pad. You can pay more for these extras, so consider how much you’ll use them before you buy.
Fabric. Patterns run the gamut from toile, plaid, and paisley to animal prints, florals, and popular cartoon character motifs. Machine-washable materials are standard, though some fabrics can only be wiped clean. Some covers offer extra long leg flaps to prevent pinching.
Safety belts. You’ll find two basic safety belt/strap options: a cover that features one detachable strap that threads through the back of the seat to secure the baby to the cart, and a cover that features two straps, one to secure your baby to the cart and one to secure the cover to the cart.
Padding. Higher-end covers have plush, thick batting to give babies a luxurious ride. Lower-end models have quilted cotton fabric without batting.
Pillow. Covers at the high end have a pillow at the handlebar so a baby can rest his head.
Bag/tote. When not in use, some cart covers fold into a duffel-shape diaper bag with one large compartment for diapers, wipes, toys, and snacks. Others roll up and become their own carrying bag. Some have a separate, vinyl carrying case. Shopping-cart covers are just one more thing to carry, so choose a cover that has the portable system you think you’ll use most often. Keep in mind that cars have their own colonies of germs. Though a cart cover may protect your baby from germs when you’re shopping, just tossing the cart cover in the back or trunk of your car when it’s not in use will wipe out the benefits.
Versatility. Some cart covers have attached plush toys; side pockets for storing sippy cups, your cell phone, keys, and coupons; and loops for attaching toys and teethers. Some convert to a play mat or diaper bag, or can be used on high chairs, park swings, public strollers, or even as an emergency changing pad. You can pay more for these extras, so consider how much you’ll use them before you buy.
Fabric. Patterns run the gamut from toile, plaid, and paisley to animal prints, florals, and popular cartoon character motifs. Machine-washable materials are standard, though some fabrics can only be wiped clean. Some covers offer extra long leg flaps to prevent pinching.
Safety belts. You’ll find two basic safety belt/strap options: a cover that features one detachable strap that threads through the back of the seat to secure the baby to the cart, and a cover that features two straps, one to secure your baby to the cart and one to secure the cover to the cart.
Padding. Higher-end covers have plush, thick batting to give babies a luxurious ride. Lower-end models have quilted cotton fabric without batting.
Pillow. Covers at the high end have a pillow at the handlebar so a baby can rest his head.
Bag/tote. When not in use, some cart covers fold into a duffel-shape diaper bag with one large compartment for diapers, wipes, toys, and snacks. Others roll up and become their own carrying bag. Some have a separate, vinyl carrying case. Shopping-cart covers are just one more thing to carry, so choose a cover that has the portable system you think you’ll use most often. Keep in mind that cars have their own colonies of germs. Though a cart cover may protect your baby from germs when you’re shopping, just tossing the cart cover in the back or trunk of your car when it’s not in use will wipe out the benefits.
