The complete toddler car seat buying guide

Choosing a car seat is no easy task, and a simple trip down the car seat aisle can make your head swim with wonder and confusion. How do you know which seat to invest in? Is one style safer than the other? Is a tether attachment essential? (hint: yes!) Read on for more information about choosing the most appropriate car seat for your child, knowing your responsibilities as a parent when it comes to car seat safety, and important things to consider before you buy.

What is the best car seat for my toddler?

There are two main types of car seats that can be used with toddlers: rear-facing and forward-facing.

Rear-facing car seats: Infants use rear-facing car seats from birth until at least one year of age. However, according to the Canadian Paediatric Society Opens a new window even young toddlers are safest in a rear-facing position as some seats accommodate children up to 20 kg (45 lbs). There's no rush to move a child to a forward-facing car seat until they're above the height and weight limit of their rear-facing seat.

Forward-facing car seats: Designed for older children with strong neck support, these car seats should only be used with a five-point harness, lap belt routed through the seat, and tether attached to a tether anchor. Some seats are considered 'convertible' and can be used in both the rear-facing and forward-facing positions. This is an ideal option, as it will allow you to keep your toddler rear-facing for as long as possible (age two preferably), before changing positions to set them forward-facing.

Child car seats: who's responsible?

Three groups are responsible for the safe transportation of children.

Parents and caregivers: Become familiar with the rules and regulations for transporting children safely, educate yourself on the types of car seats available, learn how to properly install the seats in your vehicle, and ensure your child is secured safely in the car seat you purchase.

Provincial government: Regulate seat belt and child car seat use, and enforce laws through the local police service.

Federal government: Enforce the safety standards for car seats and educate the public via published brochures and updated websites.

Important things to consider when buying a car seat

• Always consult your car owner's manual and car seat user guide before installing a car seat.
• Make sure the five-point harness stops at or is just below your toddler's shoulders.
• Ensure the harness system is snug when you switch your child from bulky winter wear to lighter summer clothing.
• Extra padding on seats and head rests will make a car seat more comfortable for your toddler, and a machine-washable cover with quickly clean up spills and stains.
• Car seats have expiry dates – replace it when it expires. Also, get rid of a car seat if it's been in an accident.
• If you aren't sure if your car seat is installed properly, visit a Canadian car seat clinic Opens a new window in your community.
• Be wary of cross border shopping for car seats. There are some key differences between Canadian and U.S. regulations including mandatory use of tether straps for forward-facing car seats.