Child Safety Seats: How Your Car Seat Really "Fits"

In addition to safety, there are three important things to consider when buying a car seat.

Fits Your Child

A car seat should be appropriate for your child's age, height, and weight requirements. Consumer guidelines online usually offer general product information. Don't guess with your child's safety. Consult the manufacturer's information and if you have questions ask before you buy.

Fits Your Vehicle.

A car seat is beneficial only when it fits your vehicle AND you can use it properly each and every time! Consider you vehicle's make and model when determining if certain types of car seats are a better fit than others.

Fits Your Budget.

Yes, safety comes first and it's hard to put a price on your child's safety. However, there are a lot of great car seats out there that don't necessarily have to cost a small fortune. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides consumers with an annual Child Safety Ease of Use Ratings, available on their website at www.nhtsa.dot.gov. This is an excellent resource as you can quickly determine exactly what type of car seat your child requires! Find out which car seats make "the grade" and use that as a starting point to select a few different types of car seats that you are most interested in. After comparing a few prices, you can then determine how much you are willing to spend. A car seat is one of those items you should spend the money on and buy new. However, if you are given a used car seat from a trusted family member or a close friend, be advised that car seats have expiration dates, generally 6 years from the manufactured date.

Also, periodically check the lastest recall information for these types of products just to be sure you are safe traveling!