How to Select a Car Seat for Your Infant

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:SelectCarSeatInfant
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How to Select a Car Seat for Your Infant

Introduction

Take the mystery out of car-seat shopping by following these simple steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Start shopping about six months into your pregnancy. All 50 states require that infants and young children be properly harnessed in a vehicle. Start comparing safety features and prices early on, so you will be prepared when the baby is born.
2

Step Two

Buy a rear-facing seat. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under 20 pounds and/or one year of age ride in the back seat in a rear-facing seat. Because your infant has little neck and head control, facing backward will be the safest position for your child should you get into an accident.
3

Step Three

Look for easy installation. If the seat is not installed correctly, your child may not be restrained properly.
4

Step Four

Buy seats with a five-point harness belt. Seat belts that restrain the shoulders, thighs and between the legs prevent injury better than plastic chest restraints on the belt.
5

Step Five

Decide which style of seat you want. Styles vary from rear-facing infant-only seats to convertible seats for infants and toddlers. Do you want an infant carrier also or do you want a more permanent seat? Some seats are complete travel systems for the car and stroller, and some toddler seats eventually turn into booster seats. Whichever model you decide on, check the ease of installation and safety standards. Prices range from $80.00 to $500.00.

Tips & Warnings

  • Buy a model that is easy to wash. Fabric that is attached with screws is harder to remove for washing than snaps or elastic.
  • Buy a seat with a lot of cushion. A comfy baby is happy baby!
  • Consider a top tether strap for forward-facing models. The strap further anchors the seat and prevents injury.
  • Check recall notices before placing your child in a borrowed or used car seat.
  • Check the security of your car seat often by pulling on the main seat belt.
  • Never put a baby in the front seat of a car with an airbag.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Convertible Car Seats
  • Infant Car Seats
  • Booster Car Seats
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