When Should Infants Car Seats Be Turned Around?

When to turn a car seat around depends on the baby's height and weight. Different models of car seats vary and parents should always follow the guidelines set by the car seat manufacturer.

  1. Rear-facing Infant Seats

    • Generally the term "infant car seat" refers to rear-facing only seats as they are meant to accommodate infants only. You should no longer use them once the baby reaches the height and weight limitations set by the manufacturer, usually when the baby is at least 20 lbs. and 1 year old. At that point you should move the toddler to a forward-facing or convertible seat, which generally can accommodate a toddler between 20 and 40 lbs. and ages 1 and 4 years.

    Convertible Car Seats

    • Convertible car seats can be rear-facing for babies and forward-facing for toddlers. These seats come in a variety of styles and models. Most can accommodate a baby as small as 5 lbs. and can vary quite largely on upper weight and height limitations.

    When to Turn the Seat

    • Never use rear-facing infant seats in a forward-facing position. You can use a convertible seat rear-facing and then turn it around when the baby is older. When to turn the car seat around varies by the model and the specifications set by the car seat manufacturer. It is important to check the car seat manual or contact the manufacturer to find the specific guidelines.

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