Understanding the Different Car Seat Types
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There are actually 4 different types of car seats out on the market today, and you will likely have questions concerning which one is best for you and your baby. With a little bit of knowledge and research, you can find the best car seat for your baby at a price that you can be happy with.
The following information will help you choose the right seat for your situation. It includes which type of seat to use when, and tips to securing your baby in properly.
Infant Rear-Facing Car Seat
-For babies under 20 pounds and less than one year of age.
-Tightly install child seat in rear seat, facing the rear. Never use in a front seat where an air bag is present.
-Child seat should recline at approximately a 45 degree angle.
-Harness straps/slots at or below shoulder level.
-Harness straps snug on child; harness clip at armpit level.
Convertible Seat
-Use as a rear-facing infant seat when your child is less than one year old and weighs 20 to 35 pounds. (Be sure to select one recommended for heavier infants.)
-Use as a forward-facing seat when your baby is over the age of one and at least 20 pounds — and up to 40 pounds and around 43 inches in height.
-Tightly install child seat in rear seat, facing the rear. (Never use in a front seat where an air bag is present.)
-Child seat should recline at approximately a 45 degree angle.
-Harness straps/slots at or below shoulder level (lower set of slots for most convertible child safety seats).
-Harness straps snug on child; harness clip at armpit level.
Forward-Facing Seat
-Use when your baby is over the age of one and at least 20 pounds — and up to 40 pounds and around 43 inches in height.
-Tightly install child seat in rear seat, facing forward.
-Harness straps/slots at or above child’s shoulders.
-Harness straps snug on child; harness clip at armpit level.
High-Back Booster/Harness
-Use when your child is one to four years of age and at least 20 pounds to approximately 40 lbs.
-Tightly install child seat in rear seat, facing forward.
-Harness straps/slots at or above child’s shoulders.
-Harness straps snug on child; harness clip at armpit level.
Everyone should get their car seat inspected to make sure that it is installed properly. If you have multiple vehicles, try to buy a car seat that has additional bases for sale, so that you don’t have to worry about installing your car seat and every time you switch vehicles.
Sarah Jones is a mom on a mission. She is the creator of MyBabyTravelGear.com which features the latest and greatest baby gear and supplies, to help you and your little one travel in comfort and style.
Find a wide assortment of car seats, strollers, diaper bags, carriers and more at her site, http://www.MyBabyTravelGear.com.
