As a parent, your number one concern should be your children’s safety. You can take responsibility in maintaining a safe travel environment for your children by obeying your state safety laws, buckling up, and equipping your car with an ultra-secure car seat. There are various types of car seats and a wide variety of features to consider, so it is essential to know what are going to be the safest options for your child.

Which Type of Car Seat is Best?

The best car seat is the one that fits your child's size, is correctly installed, and is used properly every time you drive. There are three types of car seats that are commonly used: Infant, Convertible, and Booster Car Seats. Each has its own unique functions and uses. When purchasing a car seat, make sure that it meets the very strict safety standards set by the United States. There are a variety of features available on the market, from built-in reclining functions to adaptable carrying handles, plus many more.

Infant Car Seats:
  Infant car seats are designed for infants in the rear-facing position, and can also be used as carriers. These can ONLY be used in the rear position and can accommodate babies up to 20-22 pounds (depending on model). They are small and portable, and all come equipped with either a 3-point or 5-point harness. Many infant seats have a detachable base which attaches to the car. This way you can carry your baby in and out of the car without needing to install the car safety seat each time.

Convertible Car Seats:
  Convertible car seats can be used in both the front- and rear-facing positions; however, they are not portable and cannot be used as a carrier. They are used in the rear-facing position for infants up to 20 lbs, and forward-facing for toddlers who are 1 year of age and weigh at least 20 lbs.

Booster Car Seats:
  Booster car seats are to be used only for toddlers in a forward-facing position and can accommodate children up to 80 lbs. This type of car seat can have its own set of harnesses, or it can use the seat belt already found in your car. When your child reaches the maximum weight or height allowed for his or her car seat, you’ll need a booster seat to accommodate their size.

Essential Safety Rules

Make sure you take the right safety precautions by following not only your state laws, but by reading the car seat's instruction manual completely, and by paying attention to government regulated safety tips.

Always keep in mind:

• Never place a child in a rear-facing car seat in the front of a car with an airbag.
• Set a good example for your kids by always wearing a seat belt.
• Infants should be in a rear-facing infant-only seat or convertible seat until they are one year old and at least 20 lbs.
• Toddlers can use a forward-facing car seat after they are one year old and at least 20 lbs.
• Once your child has reached 40 lbs, they can now sit with a fastened seatbelt on a booster seat in the rear seat of the car.
• You should not use a regular seat belt on your child until they have reached about 80 lbs and it fits them properly.

What Is Right for My Child?

It is important to select a car seat that will be sure to suit your child’s specific needs. Keep in mind that there are rules and regulations restricting the type of car seat you can use based on your child's age, weight, and size.

• Infants: Rear-facing seat or rear-facing convertible seat
• Toddlers: Forward-facing seat
• 5-point Harness: Experts agree and studies confirm that this type of harness is the safest. It usually gives the best fit and reduces the chance of ejection. There are 5 straps - 2 at the shoulders, 2 at the hips, and 1 at the crotch.
• Built-in Locking Clips: Many older vehicles require the use of a metal locking clip. Today, many strollers offer this feature built in, so your stroller can stay safe and secure with ease.
• Reversible Fabrics and Energy Absorbing Foam: These luxury features are available on many car seats. Some fabrics can be reversed if they are spilled on, or if you would simply like a different look. Some car seats are made of shock absorbing memory foam, ensuring a more comfortable ride.

There is a wide array of available features. What is right for your child and his or her safety should be your primary concern when shopping for a car seat. Make sure you read listing descriptions closely and ask the seller about specifications to ensure you are purchasing the appropriate car seat.