Buy your car seat before the baby arrives.
Seriously, between diaper changes and sleepless nights, this is one less thing you’ll want to stress about.
Pick a seat that’s newborn-friendly and actually fits your car. (Yes, not all car seats work with every vehicle)
Also, practice installing it ahead of time.
You don’t want to be fumbling in the hospital parking lot while your partner gives you the look.
1. Types of Car Seats
There are three main types: Infant Car Seats (portable for newborns), Convertible Car Seats (grow with your child), and All-in-One Car Seats (it’s like the Swiss Army knife of car seats, with rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster all-in-one).
Here’s a video that explains the features of these car seats, making it easier to visualize.
2. How to Install Your Car Seat
Here’s a quick step-by-step:
Step 1: Position the seat
Always rear-facing for newborns.
Keep it that way until they’re more than 2 years old, or when your wife says “I need you to turn the car seat around.”
Step 2: Secure the seat
Use either the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system OR the seatbelt (don’t use both guys).
Check your car manual for compatibility.
Step 3: Adjust the angle
Use the recline indicator for newborns. If the car’s seat angle makes it difficult to achieve the proper recline, use a rolled towel or pool noodle under the base as per the car seat instructions.
Step 4: Stability test
The seat shouldn’t move more than 1 inch (2.54 cm) in any direction at the belt path.
Ensure all connections are tight and secure.
Step 5: Buckle up your baby
Use the 5-point harness. Straps should be snug, with the chest clip at armpit level.
Ensure the harness straps are at or below the baby’s shoulders.
Check out these links too:
How to install rear-facing only infant car seat
https://www.nhtsa.gov/how-install-rear-facing-only-infant-car-seat
How to install a convertible seat
https://www.nhtsa.gov/car-seats-and-booster-seats/how-install-convertible-car-seat-rear-facing
How to install an all-in-one car seat
https://www.nhtsa.gov/car-seats-and-booster-seats/how-install-all-one-car-seat-rear-facing
3. Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Loose installation: Tug the seat to ensure it’s secure.
- Incorrect recline angle: Use those indicators!
- Chest clip too high or low: Keep it at armpit level.
- Expired or damaged seats: Check the expiration date and replace if needed.
4. Product Recommendations
Your kid could be riding in the same convertible car seat for five years or more, so it’s a pretty big deal, this could be your most significant car seat purchase, hands down.
Making the right choice here could even earn you that rare “certified dad” look from your in-laws or the ultimate nod of approval from your partner.
I did a deep dive on Amazon, and the best-sellers all have over 15,000 reviews.
These seats are battle-tested and parent-approved, there are also videos on how to install for each type.
Infant Seat:
Doona Car Seat & Stroller: Perfect for city parents who value portability.
EvenFlo: Budget-friendly and reliable.
Convertible Seat:
Graco Extend2Fit: Great for extended rear-facing and small spaces.
All-in-One Seat:
Safety 1st Grow and Go: Long-lasting and versatile.