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Buying For Baby?

Fasten Your Seatbelt!

By Julia Rosien

Infant Car Seat Tips Many police departments, hospitals and car dealerships offer car seat clinics taught by certified car seat technicians to teach you how to install your seat correctly. Call your hospital, insurance plan or state Department of Motor Vehicles -- they often sell or rent infant seats for a small fee. Get professional help when installing a car seat. You can get safety tips many sources, such as GM's Web Site.

Want to save yourself from buying several car seats? Buy a convertible car seat. It can be used for the newborn, infant and toddler by flipping to a front facing car seat after the first year. Look for one with good padding and a removable neck support to use while Baby is small.

The five-point harness system protects Baby most. Find one that allows you to adjust the buckles and position of the seat at the front. Little fingers can't manipulate most stiff buckles, but check anyway. Choose a seat with a removable liner for frequent washing. Read installation instructions before buying and find one that's easy to install and remove. Expect to spend between $80 and $200 (U.S.).

"We men act like hunters when shopping. We take our spear, choose the target, kill one and rag it home," says Terry Burns, father and grandfather. "We don't buy strollers the same time we buy car seats unless the need presents itself."

Want to see more?

• Get tips on surviving baby's first year financially in Having the Baby Without Breaking the Bank
• Check out the iParenting Recalls section to make sure your baby equipment has not been recalled.
• Read Clip This: How and Why to Use a Locking Clip for more car seat safety information.
• Read Read Carseat Safety Tips for more car seat safety information.
• Learn about stroller safety

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