Car seat safety can come with a lot of questions—from choosing the right seat and finding the best installation position to properly adjusting the harness and cleaning the seat safely.
We asked Jonathan, a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST), to answer some of the questions parents and caregivers ask most often about car seat installation, fit, maintenance, and everyday use.
Please note: This article is intended for general educational purposes. Always follow the instructions in your Orbit Baby product manual and your vehicle owner's manual. For questions about an Orbit Baby product, please contact Orbit Baby Customer Support through our current support channels.
What does CPST stand for, and what does the certification involve?
A CPST, or certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, is someone who has completed specialized training covering car seats, vehicle seat belt systems, crash dynamics, and occupant protection systems. The certification course also addresses best practices and the different methods used to install child restraints correctly in vehicles.
Resource: Become a Child Passenger Safety Technician
How can a CPST help parents use a car seat correctly?
Car seat misuse is common, which is why education and hands-on guidance can be so valuable. A CPST can help caregivers understand the different parts of a car seat, adjust the seat and harness for the child, and review how to install the seat correctly in a particular vehicle.
What are three of the most common car seat mistakes?
One of the most common issues is incorrect harnessing. The harness must be adjusted properly for the child's size and seating position each time the seat is used.
Another common issue is an incorrect base installation. Caregivers should read both the car seat manual and the vehicle owner's manual before installing a car seat or base, because the correct installation method can vary by seating position and vehicle.
A third common mistake is adding products or accessories that were not approved for use with the car seat. Unapproved inserts, padding, toys, or other aftermarket accessories may interfere with the way the seat is designed to perform. Only use products and accessories approved by the car seat manufacturer.
What should parents consider when choosing a car seat?
Choose a car seat that fits your vehicle, fits your child, and can be used correctly every time. A car seat's safety depends on proper installation, fit, and use, so the best choice is one that works for your child, your vehicle, and your family's everyday needs.
Resource: Safe Kids Ultimate Car Seat Guide
What is the safest way to clean a car seat?
Every car seat has specific cleaning requirements. Before cleaning any part of the seat, review the instructions in the product manual or contact the manufacturer. Following the approved cleaning directions helps protect the materials and components that are essential to the seat's performance.
Before removing the cover or harness components, take photos of the front and back of the seat so you have a visual reference when reassembling it. An extra approved car seat liner can also be helpful, allowing you to keep a clean liner ready when the other needs to be washed.
Resource: How to Clean Your Child's Car Seat
What are the benefits of starting with an infant car seat instead of a convertible car seat?
An infant car seat is typically lighter and designed to be removed from the vehicle. It can allow a caregiver to move the baby from the vehicle and attach the seat to a compatible stroller without transferring the baby out of the car seat.
Most convertible car seats are intended to remain installed in the vehicle. For families who want the convenience of moving between the car and stroller with a compatible travel system, an infant car seat may be the better place to start.
Should a car seat be installed in the center, behind the driver, or behind the passenger?
The center seating position is sometimes recommended because it may place the child farther from a potential side impact, but it is not the correct or practical installation location in every vehicle.
The best seating position is one that is permitted by both the vehicle manufacturer and the car seat manufacturer and allows you to achieve a correct, secure installation. Consider the vehicle's seating configuration, the other passengers who ride in it, and the instructions in both manuals. Not every vehicle has a usable center seating position or allows every installation method in that position.
How long should a child remain rear-facing?
Keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible, until they reach the maximum rear-facing height or weight limit specified by the car seat manufacturer. Parents and caregivers should also review the child passenger safety laws that apply in their state.
Resource: American Academy of Pediatrics guidance
Distracted Driving Awareness
Distracted driving can put drivers, passengers, and everyone else on the road at risk. Distraction is not limited to texting. It can include talking on the phone, scrolling through social media, adjusting navigation, eating, applying makeup, or interacting with passengers.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's U Drive. U Text. U Pay. campaign raises awareness of the dangers and consequences of distracted driving.
Tips for reducing distractions while driving
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Put your phone away before you begin driving and model safe behavior for family and friends.
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If a driver begins texting or using a phone behind the wheel, speak up. If a passenger asks you to put your phone away, listen and do so.
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Do not scroll through social media or send messages while driving.
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Use your phone's driving focus or Do Not Disturb feature. If needed, place the phone in the glove compartment, back seat, or trunk until you arrive.
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Set up navigation, music, and hands-free systems such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto before driving.
Children can also be a source of distraction, particularly when they need something while the vehicle is moving. Whenever possible, prepare bottles, snacks, toys, navigation, and other essentials before leaving. If your child needs your attention, pull over in a safe location before assisting them.
Safe travel begins before the car moves. Take time to understand your car seat, check the harness and installation regularly, and keep your attention on the road throughout every ride.