The best way to choose a car seat for your baby and your vehicle is to take the vehicle with you when shopping for a seat. Always try the car seats' fit into the car before you leave the store. If the seat doesn't fit properly, take it back and choose another model.

Things to remember when car seat shopping:
* Look at the fit of the base in the seat. Does it gap anywhere under the base? (Note: There are foam "noodles" you can purchase that are made for the gap between the base and the vehicle seat.)

* Make sure that as your child grows and his/her legs hang over the car seat, that they are not going to be scrunched up or squished by the vehicle seat in front of it (passenger/driver seat). Move the vehicles front seat to a comfortable position for BOTH you and your spouse, making sure that you are far enough away from the air bag, but that the baby has room for his/her legs and feet.

* Not necessary, but I've always made sure of what the baby can reach while in the seat. If you do not have child locks on your vehicles doors, you might want to think about those little fingers getting hold of the window or lock buttons, and most importantly- the car door handle. Some seats fit closer to the door than others. Also make sure that it is going to be comfortable for you to lift the child in and out of the car seat.

*If you have more than one child, make sure that there is enough room for both of them to fit comfortably in the back seat together. Keep in mind the "he's touching me(!)" wars that go on.

*Last but not least, always check the rating on the seat. Most, if not all, car seats have a safety rating on them.

There are many contributing factors in choosing the right seat, and that is why it is important to try it out after purchasing, but before leaving the store.

Learn more about this author, Brandi Borland.
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