Find your best car seat in 2 minutes!
Michelle Pratt
Founder of Safe in the Seat
As a first-time parent, I found very little support around one critically important aspect: car seats.
When I couldn’t find a go-to resource to help me navigate this complex part of my child’s safety, I took matters into my own hands. I became the expert I needed and founded Safe in the Seat in 2018.
I’m passionate about helping parents feel confident that they’re doing all they can to keep their kids safe in the seat. As a Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Expert, I have spent years consulting with parents just like you -parents who simply need guidance or reassurance when it comes to traveling safely with their kids.
Safe in the Seat articles
Articles and Helpful Resources by Michelle Pratt
What is Survival Bias?
Survival bias is a super dangerous attitude to have toward safety. We’ve dedicated our post today to exploring survival bias. Learn more here!
Car Seat Safety: Where Do We Draw the (Car) Lines?
In this post, we have some car seat safety tips to ensure they are riding through car seat lines safely and securely this school year.
Eliminate Waste & Keep Kids Safe
It's important to recycle your kids' car seats rather than toss them. Know ways on how you can eliminate waste and keep your kids safe!
About Michelle Pratt: Car Seat Safety Expert & Founder of Safe in the Seat
Meet Michelle Pratt, CPST and founder of Safe in the Seat. Get expert car seat safety tips, car seat reviews, and trusted resources like Safe to Switch, Safe in the Sky, and Talk to a Tech.
When Does the Newborn Stage Get Easier
The newborn stage is exceptionally challenging. Here are some milestones that make the newborn stage much easier to cope with.
Does Goodwill Take Car Seats? What Every Parent Should Know
No, Goodwill doesn’t take car seats. Learn why, plus where to take your old seat instead, like Target’s trade-in event or a car seat recycling program.
How to Tell if a Car Seat Is Expired (And Where to Find the Date)
Car seats expire, usually 6 to 10 years after they’re made. Learn where to find the date on yours and what to do once it has passed.
How Long Are Infant Car Seats Good For? Advice From CPSTs
How long are infant car seats good for? Here’s where to find the expiration date, how to check your seat’s lifespan, and what to know before using a hand-me-down.
6 Car Seat Recycling Programs Every Parent Can Use
Learn how to recycle an old or expired car seat, find car seat recycling programs near you, and prepare your seat for safe disposal.
Can a Car Seat Go in the Middle Seat? A CPST's Honest Answer
Can a car seat go in the middle seat? Learn when the center is safest, how to install it correctly, and when an outboard seat is the better choice.
Can You Resell Car Seats? What Every Parent Should Know First
Can you resell car seats? Learn when a used car seat is safe to sell or donate, what to check first, and when recycling is the better choice.
Replacing Car Seat After Minor Accident: When It's Necessary
Do you need to replace a car seat after a minor accident? Learn the NHTSA crash criteria, manufacturer guidelines, and our recommendations.
Possible vs. Probable: The Truth About Stroller “Projectiles,” Third-Row SUVs, and What Actually Keeps Your Kids Safe
Can a stroller become a projectile in a crash? Learn how to think about projectile risk, secure cargo, and prioritize what matters most for everyday life.
How to Fix Car Seat Crotch Buckle: A Judgment-Free Guide
We're sharing a practical guide on how to safely fix the most common crotch buckle problems. Learn how to adjust a car seat crotch buckle and why it matters for a safe, comfortable harness fit.
Car Seat Weight Limit: Why It Matters and Where to Find It
Learn car seat weight limits for infant, rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seats, plus how to know when your child has outgrown their seat.
Flying with Kids: Car Seat Guide for Safe and Stress-Free Travel
Flying with kids? Learn how to use a car seat on a plane, check FAA approval, install it correctly, and choose the best travel car seat.
How to Install a Car Seat: A Realistic Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to install a car seat correctly with step-by-step guidance on LATCH vs. seat belt, recline angle, tether use, and checking for a secure fit.
Car Seat That Transforms into a Stroller Buying Guide
Compare the best car seat stroller combos, including Doona and Evenflo. See pros, cons, features, and how to choose the right one for your family.
What Is the Safest Car Brand According to Crash Tests?
Discover the safest car brands for families based on IIHS and NHTSA crash tests. Learn which vehicles earn top safety ratings and the features that matter most.
Car Seat LATCH System: A Parent's Installation Guide
Many parents misuse the LATCH system without realizing it. Learn how LATCH works, when to use it, and how to avoid common installation mistakes.
How to Fit a Booster Seat: A Parent's Safety Guide
Learn how to fit a booster seat correctly, when to make the switch from a harness, and how to ensure proper seat belt positioning for every ride.
How to Detach Car Seat From Base: Our Quick and Easy Guide
Removing an infant car seat from its base is easy when you know where to look. Learn how to find the release mechanism and safely lift the carrier out.
15+ Forward-Facing Car Seat Rules Every Parent Should Know
Transitioning to a forward-facing car seat? Discover our essential safety rules every parent should know, plus installation and harness tips.
How to Get Rid of Mold in Car Seats and Vehicle Interiors
Learn how to identify, remove, and prevent mold in your car. Discover safe cleaning methods, common causes, warning signs, and what to do if mold affects a child’s car seat.