So - maybe I wasn't very clear in my earlier post - which I left intact below- - the straps are tight on the child, but they are "soft" so they twist and fold up on itself so the buckles get stuck and can't move up and down easily to adjust. I need to make them a little stiffer so that they can't fold and twist.
I recently took the carseat apart and washed everything. The straps are not as stiff as they were before washing so they get twisted up very easily and make it hard to get the buckle parts to move. Does anyone have any suggestions how to make them a little more rigid without making them totally stiff?
I have thought about starch but since I've never used it I don't know what kind to use, spray or liquid? or how stiff it'll make the straps. Any suggestions would be welcome!
I think the straps should only be handwashed. Find out if you can buy new ones. Id be concerned that the integrity and strength of the fabric may be compromised.
I know just what you mean about the little buckle parts getting caught up in the fabric. I had quite a wrestling match with my granddaughter's car seat last week .... and it almost won! Spray starch should work fine. What I would do it bring the carseat inside and adjust the straps correctly for your daughter wearing her winter clothing. Then give it a shot of starch and let it dry.
Can the straps be completely removed from the car seat? If so, call the company (Graco, whatever) and see if you can order new ones.
I don't think they need to be stiff to be tight. If you are unsure your local police department can help you out. They have been trained in car seat safety and such.
See if they can be tightened, they don't need to be stiff. Sometimes in the winter they get all out of shape, you are in the car more often, and they have heavy jackets on. I don' think there is anything that you can do. Good luck.
