You'll need a properly installed infant car seat in order to take your baby home from the hospital. Do not ride in the car while holding your baby, even for a short distance.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has a complete car seat guide at their website, www.aap.org/family/carseatguide.htm. No one seat is the best or safest. You want a seat that is installed correctly, fits well in your car, can be used properly each time you drive, and fits your child at each age and size. Although a higher price does not necessarily mean greater safety, don't skimp on the car seat. Buy a new one if possible. Avoid used seats unless you know the seat's history. Check the manufacturer's label on used seats and don't use one that is too old. Check with the manufacturer to see how long they recommend using the seat. Never use one that has any visible cracks, is missing parts, or does not come with instructions. You can check to see if a used seat has been recalled by calling the manufacturer or by contacting the Auto Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at www.odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/chiseat.cfm.

Whichever style you choose, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before installing and using the seat.

Here's what you need to know about car seats:

• Use a rear-facing car seat, installed in the backseat of the car.

• A five-point harness is preferred, keep chest clip at armpit level, not on the neck or tummy. Harness straps should be at or below the shoulders.

• Newborns should have a 45-degree maximum recline (built-in angle indicators and adjusters will help you get the right recline).

• If you have questions or need help installing your car seat, you can find a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station by state or zip code on the NHTSA website at www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm. This site will also tell you which nearby inspection stations have personnel who speak Spanish.