Baby car safety seats 101

Which car seat does my baby need?

There’s a huge range of choice when it comes to car safety seats for kids and you need to consider your child’s age and size, the make and model of your vehicle and how you intend using the car seat in the future before making a decision…

Baby car seats

There are two types of rear-facing seats designed for use from birth: infant-only seats and convertible seats:

• Infant-only seats are intended for babies from birth up to 22-30Ib depending on the design. They’re small and have a carrying handle so you can transport your sleeping baby from the car without disturbing him. Some models have a base that remains in your car – you then simply click the seat onto the base when you’re driving anywhere with your baby. Never use an infant-only car seat in the forward-facing position.
• Convertible seats are used rear-facing from birth until your baby is at least 12 months of age and weighs at least 20Ib but many models can be used rear-facing up to 30Ib, which is safer for your baby.

If you can, position your child’s safety seat in the middle of the rear seat, to protect him from side-impact collisions

Toddler car seats

Once your baby turns 1 and weighs at least 20Ib you can switch him to a forward-facing seat…

• Using a convertible seat facing forward Check the instructions for fitting the car seat in the forward-facing position, as you may need to route the car seat belt differently. Adjust the harness if necessary (with some convertibles you need to use the top harness slot when it’s facing forwards).
• Combination seats can be used as both a forward-facing seat and a booster. They incorporate a harness for younger children and once your child reaches the harness weight or height limit you can use your car seat belt to secure your child in the seat. There may be a routing slot or a clip to ensure the shoulder portion of the belt doesn’t rest on your child’s neck.
• Built-in seats

 are available in some vehicles, but weight and height limits vary. Read your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for details about how to use these seats.

Features to look for…

• Several harness slots to give your baby room to grow – the harness should be threaded through the slots at or just below your baby’s shoulders. The harness should be in the slots at or below your baby's shoulders when your baby is rear-facing.
• Adjustable buckles Many rear-facing seats have two or more buckle positions for growing babies. Avoid seats where the buckle adjustment is at the back of the seat – it’ll be too fiddly.
• Head support cushion to prevent your newborn’s head from flopping to one side.
• Angle indicators and adjusters can help you get the proper recline.
• Removable, washable covers in case your child spits up in his car seat or mashes his banana into the cover!
• Sippy cup holders Convertible seats may incorporate these and older children like the idea that they have a space to stow their drink.

 

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