6 easy tips that will help you choose a car seat

Buying a car seat for your child is a necessity. They are an expensive purchase, so be sure to do some research, know the legal guidelines, and be sure you understand how they are assembled. Here are six tips that will help you choose the best car seat for your child.

It is essential that your child's car seat fits your car securely, that you know how to properly install it and that the seat is the correct size for your child's height and weight.

• For comprehensive instructions on how to buckle your child in properly, check online and learn more about child safety in vehicles.

To ensure you don't overpay, try not to be seduced by designer names, gimmicks or glamorous fabrics.

• These won't make any difference to your baby and will get covered in the usual baby food and drool just the same, negating your extra outlay.

Make sure the manufacturer's installation instructions are with the seat, so you can be sure you are fitting it securely.

• Check standards:The seat must meet the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for you child's weight and height. Look for the CMVSS sticker.
• Universal Anchorage System: The most secure car seats have a Universal Anchorage System. Find out if your car takes a UAS car seat, and if so, buy a car seat of this type.

Car seats are categorized by stage or group when you buy them in the stores. Consider your options, bearing in mind your plans for future children.

• Buying group 0+1 and 2/3 combination will keep your child safe from birth to 11 for $170.
• Group 0+ and 1/2/3 combination will keep your child safe from birth to 11 for $200.

If you are offered a used car seat that fits your car, be very cautious. Your baby's safety is the top priority even if it costs a few dollars more.

• The protection offered by child car seats is reduced if it has already been in an accident or been thrown around the attic or garage.
• Consider a previously used seat only if you can be sure of its history — if it comes from a friend or relative, for example.
• Do not buy from the classified ads or a second-hand shop
• Have questions about the safety of a second-hand product? You can easily find a list of defective products, or those that don't comply with safety standards online.

Find a car seat that is comfortable and safe by following these tips. Remember that you are looking for a car seat that will last a while and may be passed down to younger siblings, so choose carefully.