Types of car seats

INFANT CAR SEATS

These rear-facing seats are for babies up to 22 pounds, although some models may accommodate babies as large as 30 pounds. They should allow infants to recline at an angle that doesn't interfere with breathing and protects them best in a crash. Many strollers can accommodate infant car seats. All infant car-seat models have a handle, and a base that is secured in your vehicle with LATCH connectors or a vehicle safety belt--a convenience that lets you remove the infant seat and use it as a carrier.

CONVERTIBLE SEATS

Use these seats rear-facing for infants (follow labeled weight and height limits) and forward-facing when the child is at least 1 year old and 22 pounds. They can be used front-facing until the child is 40 pounds. While not stroller-compatible, they do eliminate the need to buy a new seat when your infant becomes a toddler.

TODDLER BOOSTER SEATS

In toddler mode with the harness, these accommodate children between 20 or 22 pounds, and 40 pounds. When kids reach 40 pounds, it can convert to a booster seat, which children can typically use until they're 80 to 100 pounds.

BOOSTER SEATS

These are generally for children weighing 40 to 80 pounds. They use the vehicle's own safety belt to restrain the child.