The Polo baby capsule is Safe-n-Sounds most basic but most popular baby capsule on the market. It made it it into the list of best baby car seats recommended by the NSW RTA.
Design
The Polo comes in two parts, the base which is permanently fixed inside your car and the carry bassinet which is portable. It is designed so that in the event of a car accident the base will absorb the shock leaving your baby unharmed.
The Polo's design is 100% function and it's a pretty ugly specimen, however, you only use it for 6 months so you can cope with its dowdy grey looks considering it's keeping your baby safe.
Features
The capsule features a fully washable insert (which you can’t overestimate the usefulness of considering how frequently new babies regurgitate) and a multiple position, easy adjustable harness.
The bassinet has two handles for carrying, however, they are on the thin side and don't have any cushioning so they do cut into your hands after a while.
Performance
The Polo is the RTA's 'preferred buy' for baby capsules and under its tests was rated over and above for protection and ease of correct installation. It doesn’t get much better than that.
The Crash Exchange Program that Safe-n-Sound run is an excellent initiative.
Drawbacks
Traffic Authorities recommend that you ensure adequate air ventilation around your baby while they are in a baby capsule. Point your air conditioning nozzles towards your baby's head if you are concerned.
The Polo is not 'compatible' with any travel systems, i.e. pram chassis. In my opinion this is not a bad thing because baby capsules are not designed for prolonged periods of use and are no substitute for a comfortable, fully reclinable pram for a newborn. It does mean you have to lug the bassinet around which can be difficult as your baby gets bigger.
Because the plastic can thin and become brittle this type of baby capsule has a ten year life span. Before you hire or purchase one second hand check the date of manufacture (on the sticker underneath) to ensure it is of more recent manufacture.
Conclusion
You are only going to get limited use from any baby capsule. If you want to use one consider renting and invest the savings into a good quality car seat that your baby will use from six months onward. You can rent Polo baby capsules from some ambulance services.
It’s no use paying a fortune for a capsule if it is not installed properly. It is worth paying extra to have a professional install your seat for you. Ring your local transit authority for their recommendation in your local area.
You can never know enough about car safety for your baby. Find more information on the NSW RTA website or from your local state roads and traffic authority.
About Safe-n-Sound
Safe-n-Sound are part of the Brittish Britax company that make a range of car seats suitable for infants, babies and toddlers at different stages of their development and size.
