How to Choose the Right Car Seat for Your Baby

From the moment you leave the hospital with your precious new cargo, you'll want to be prepared to transport your baby safely--no matter where you go. That's why, before baby arrives, you'll need to do some homework and carefully choose the right car seat for your baby.

Baby Car Seats--You Wouldn't Believe the Options. There are as many opinions about the safest, most comfortable, and most convenient baby car seats. But there is only one absolute to follow in the process. A baby car seat must pass Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Choose a seat that you find easy to use and that fits in your vehicle. Be sure it can be buckled tightly. Look for the seat you can use in the rear-facing position for as long as possible. Be aware of weight limits. Keep in mind that if you buy an infant-only seat, you will need an infant-toddler (convertible) seat later. Determine what type of seat you need based on your child's age and weight.

BABY CAR SEAT SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:
To be sure you're making the most of your seat's innovative safety features, be sure to follow these guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

Use the lowest harness slots for a newborn. Keep the straps in the slots at or below your baby's shoulders for the rear-facing position. It's important for an infant to ride sitting semi-reclined, about halfway back or 45 degrees from horizontal. Make sure harness straps fit properly over the shoulders and between the legs of your infant. To fill empty spaces and give support, roll up a couple of small blankets and tuck them in on each side of your baby's shoulders and head.

Never use any car seat or booster car seat in a seat with an air bag. Be sure that the car seat you purchase is appropriate for your child's height and weight. Send in the manufacturer's registration card. If by any chance your car seat is recalled, you will be notified by the manufacturer. The base of your car seat should rest firmly on the seat, and the vehicle's belt must be able to secure it tightly. If it moves an inch in any direction, it's too loose. If your car has lap and shoulder belts with a free-sliding latch, you must use the locking clip included with most car seats. Be sure and follow manufacturer's instructions for installation. If you have any questions, contact the manufacturer. Also, many local police stations, fire stations, and hospitals can offer you assistance.

To make sure you have installed your car seat correctly, attend a car seat safety check. Many local fire departments, police stations, healthcare facilities, and even some local baby stores like Babies "R" Us will periodically hold these meetings and will examine your car seat installation at no charge.

Avoid used car seats. Normal wear and involvement in accidents may limit their effectiveness. Also, they may not conform to present safety standards.

Here are some additional car seat safety tips as set forth by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA):

Always follow all manufacturers’ instructions for both the vehicle and the car seat. The back seat is the safest place to ride. Infants must ride rear-facing or in a car bed. Always anchor the car seat to the car using the seat belt exactly as directed by the car seat manufacturer. Never use a car seat in a seating location with an air bag. Always check that the car seat is securely installed. A locking clip may be necessary. Read the vehicle owner’s manual for information on other belt accessories that may be required. Do not use a car seat that is more than 6 years old or one that has ever been involved in a crash. Do not use a car seat that is missing the manufacturer’s label showing the name of the manufacturer, model number, and date of manufacture. Set a good example and make sure the entire family buckles up.

Take the time to choose the right car seat for your baby. It could mean the difference between life and death of your most precious cargo.

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