Properly installing an infant car seat is crucial for protecting your baby against injury or death in the event of a crash. Car seat manufacturers offer specific instructions and safety information for installing their brand of infant car seat. But basic installation instructions are helpful for any brand and can be used for convertible car seats or rear-facing seats with a base.
Step 1
Place the car seat, or the car seat base, in the back seat of the vehicle, in the center seat. If you have a vehicle with third-row seating, place the car seat in the middle row, with the seat in the center of the row. Ensure the car seat is rear-facing so the baby will be facing the back of the vehicle.
Step 2
Ensure the car seat is placed in a semi-reclined position, which equals a 30- to 45-degree angle from the vertical position on the center seat. Adjust the angle device on the base to achieve a semi-reclining position, if available, or check the car seat manual for the proper way to adjust the angle.
Step 3
Choose a method for securing the car seat to the vehicle. You can use the lap belt or lap/shoulder belt combination to secure the car seat. Or you can choose the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) belt system if available in your vehicle.
Step 4
Attach the car seat to the vehicle with the attachment method you've chosen. Run the lap belt or lap/shoulder belt through the seat belt path on the car seat. Or attach the car seat to the vehicle with the LATCH system by hooking the appropriate LATCH straps from the back of the car seat to the hooks on the vehicle seat.
Step 5
Ensure the car seat is snug and secure to the vehicle seat. Check all straps to ensure they are tightened and are holding the car seat in place. Check for movement of the car seat by wiggling it back and forth. If the car seat moves more than 1 inch on either side, tighten the seat belt or straps until secure.
Step 6
Enlist the help of a certified Child Passenger Safety (CPS) technician if you are having trouble properly installing the infant car seat. Call your local fire, ambulance or police station to see if a CPS is available in your area.
Tips and Warnings
- Rolled towels can be used beneath the car seat to help achieve a 30- to 45-degree angle during installation.
- Infants should be rear-facing until they reach 20 lbs. and 1 year of age.
