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Each state has different laws regarding the use of child safety seats. It is important to check your state's laws to avoid fines or penalties.

After reviewing the law, you can then purchase a car seat to fit the needs of your child. There are many types of car seats available including infant seats, toddler seats, convertible car seats, and booster seats.

The best car seat to buy, in my opinion, is a convertible car seat. This seat starts off as a rear facing seat (usually for children under 1 year old), and converts to a forward facing seat for toddlers. Some, like mine, actually convert to a booster seat for older children. Having one of these seats can save you a ton of money. So, instead of having to buy 3 car seats for your child, you only have to buy one because it is convertible and has many functions.

Also, be sure to check the weight limits for the seat. Some car seats are only recommended for children up to 20 pounds, but my son's convertible car seat is recommended for children up to 100 pounds. This can be especially helpful in states like California that are constantly raising the age at which a child can stop using a car seat, and also for people with heavier children.

Check with magazines like Consumer Reports to see how the car seat is rated. You can also check websites like babiesrus.com that will have customer reviews on the car seats they carry. This can be especially helpful because these are reviews from different parents who have used that car seat. They can provide you with real life experiences and will openly share the pros and cons of purchasing the car seat.

Learn more about this author, Julie V.
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