Choosing a Car Seat: What Parents Need to Know

A car seat is one baby purchase where safety should always come before style, convenience or price.

Your baby's first car ride may be one of the most memorable journeys you make together. Before you leave the hospital or head out on your first family road trip, it is important to know that the car seat is properly installed and your baby is secured correctly.

Start With The Right Seat

Car seats come in several types, including infant seats, convertible seats and all in one seats.

The right choice depends on your baby's age and size, your vehicle and how long you want to use the seat.

The American Academy of Pediatrics provides current information on car seat models and specifications, while NHTSA recommends choosing a seat based on the child's age and size and making sure it fits the vehicle correctly.

Rear Facing Is Important

For babies and young children, rear facing travel is the recommended approach for as long as the child remains within the manufacturer's height and weight limits.

NHTSA specifically recommends keeping children rear facing until they reach the maximum height or weight allowed for the seat.

One popular option is the Chicco KeyFit Max ClearTex, which is currently listed by HealthyChildren.org with a rear facing weight range of 4 to 30 pounds and a height limit of up to 32 inches.

Where to shop

Shop Chicco KeyFit Max on Amazon

Shop Chicco KeyFit Max at Target

Check The Installation

A beautifully designed car seat is only useful when it is installed correctly.

NHTSA recommends reading both the car seat manual and your vehicle manual before installation. Depending on your vehicle and seat, installation may use the seat belt or lower anchors. The seat should not move more than one inch from side to side or front to back when checked at the belt path.

If you are unsure, look for a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician who can check the installation.

Secure Your Baby Correctly

Your baby's back and bottom should sit flat against the seat.

Harness straps should lie flat and should not be twisted. The harness should be snug enough that you cannot pinch excess material at the shoulder.

The chest clip should sit at armpit level. NHTSA also recommends avoiding bulky coats underneath the harness because they can prevent the harness from fitting snugly.

A Convertible Option

If you prefer buying one seat that can be used for a longer period, a convertible seat may be worth considering.

The Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 is one option commonly included on baby registries because it can be used across several stages and offers an extended rear facing configuration. Babylist currently lists it among its registry recommendations.

Where to shop

Shop Graco Extend2Fit on Amazon

Shop Graco Extend2Fit at Target

Shop Graco Extend2Fit at Walmart

Remember The Basics

When it comes to car seats, more expensive does not automatically mean safer.

Choose an appropriate seat, install it correctly and use it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

And when in doubt, get help with the installation.

A few extra minutes checking the details can make every journey much more reassuring.

Numebaby may earn a commission when you purchase products through some of the links in this article. Our recommendations are based on products we believe may be useful for parents and families.