Basically, your safest car seat is any properly installed car seat that fits your car, your child and your budget. But despite the fact that all car seats sold in the
USA must meet strict government safety requirements, not all car seats are created equal. Ease of use can vary tremendously, and this is a very important consideration. Choosing a car seat that is easy to use will help prevent some very common mistakes with installation and day-to-day usage.
Different Types of Seats
Infant Carrier Car Seats are popular for a reason. They snap into a wide variety of strollers, making them extremely convenient for parents. They are only used in the rear-facing position and most babies will outgrow them well before their first birthday.
Our favorite: Combi Tyro
Convertible Car Seats can be installed in either the forward- or rear-facing position. Most will last from infancy through toddlerhood, depending on the size of your child and the seat you choose. Infants must be rear-facing until they weigh 20 lbs. and have passed their first birthday.
Our favorite: Britax Marathon
Belt Positioning Booster Seats may be used for children over 30-40 lbs, depending on the model and the manufacturer. These are essential for keeping older children (usually over 4 years old) properly restrained in the event of a crash, and they should be used until your child is 8 years old and taller than 4’9”.
Our favorite: Britax Parkway, Combi Everest
Things to Look For
• Will it fit in my car?
• Will it fit my child?
• Does it have a five-point harness?
• Does it have wide, twist-free straps?
• Does it have a built-in locking mechanism for a shoulder belt?
• Are the LATCH and Tether straps easy to adjust?
• Will it be comfortable to sleep in? Does it recline?
• At what weight/height will my child outgrow it?
And especially for infant carrier seats:
• Will it install into a car without the base?
• What is the height/weight limit as compared to other models?
• Is the fabric breathable?
• How heavy is it?
• What strollers is it compatible with?
Consider this...
73% of car seats are being used improperly. Please have your car seat inspected regularly at a certified inspection station.
