What are the different types of car seats?

If you have a new child at home, it is important to make sure that they are safe in the car. That means finding the right car seat for your little one. There are lots of choices available, so think about the features of each one before making a decision. The right car seat for one child is not necessarily the right one for all. Take a look at the options below for the different types of car seats, and make the right decision for the safety of your child.

Infant car seats

One of the first options to consider is an infant car seat. It is specifically designed for newborn babies and toddlers.

This car seat needs to be rear-facing as long as possible. What that means is your child should face the back of the seat.

You can use this type of car seat until the child reaches the height or weight restrictions, which the manufacturer should specify on the seat. When you place your child in it, ensure there are no blankets between the straps of the car seat and the infant to get the best fit possible.

That way, the seat restrains your child properly. You might also want to invest in a car seat pillow for infants.

Convertible car seats

Another option you might want to consider is a convertible car seat. This is a car seat that can switch between rear-facing and forward-facing positions.

You make the switch once your infant reaches the specified height and weight, as given by the manufacturer. This is a car seat that might be able to carry your child throughout their preschool years.

Keep in mind that the safest place for the car seat is the middle of the back seat, far away from any potential point of impact in the event of a motor vehicle accident. Again, make sure there is nothing between the straps of the car seat and your infant.

Booster seats

Finally, you might also be interested in a booster seat. As the name suggests, this is a seat that lifts your child up a bit higher to ensure that the seat belt goes across your child’s chest and not their neck.

With a booster seat, there are no additional straps. Your child is using the seat belt that comes with the car. This is a seat that is generally appropriate for your child once they reach 40 pounds, which tends to happen at around four years of age.

Your child should ride in a booster seat until the belt goes across your child’s chest and not the neck. Kids could be in a booster seat until they reach 54 inches in height, as a child safety precaution. Again, follow the directions of the particular manufacturer.

Find the right type of car seat for your family

The list above features the biggest categories of car seats for a parent or guardian to consider for a child. If you are unsure which one is right for your child, reach out to your pediatrician for more information.