Rear Facing Car Seats | Ultimate Guide for Baby & Toddler Safety

Sophie Nicholson
Nov 20, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Aug 16

Your Ultimate Guide to Rear Facing Car Seats

Road accidents are the leading cause of death for children aged 1–14 in Australia. For those who survive, many face life-changing injuries. One of the best ways to protect your child in the car is by using the safest car seat for their age and height, and keeping them rear facing for as long as possible.

This guide explains why rear facing car seats are safer, shares practical installation and usage tips, and addresses common challenges parents face.

Why Rear Facing Is Safer

Research shows that children kept rear facing are up to 5 times safer in a crash compared to those forward facing. Rear facing protects the head, neck, and spine by spreading crash forces more evenly across the body.

Top 10 Safety Tips for Rear Facing Car Seats

Keep your child rear facing as long as possible — ideally until at least 2 years of age, or until they outgrow the height markers on your seat.
Don’t leave babies sleeping in capsules once removed from the base. Outside the reclined car base, the capsule may allow babies to slump forward, risking airway obstruction.
Follow the 2-hour rule: Take your baby out of the seat for a break at least every 2 hours.
Remove bulky clothing before strapping in, as thick layers prevent correct restraint fit.
Leave a small gap between the rear car seat and the front seat (unless your manufacturer states otherwise).
Check straps for twists — the harness should always lie flat against your child.
Do the pinch test: If you can pinch the straps near the collarbone, they’re too loose.
Harness position matters: Straps should be at or just below shoulder height for rear facing.
Check installation regularly to ensure the seat hasn’t shifted or loosened.
Use a rear-facing mirror so you can see bub (and they can see you).

What If My Baby Hates Rear Facing?

It’s common for babies and toddlers to resist being rear facing. Here are some tips:

Keep a special box of toys only for car rides.
Play music or car games to distract them.
Use a rear seat mirror so they can see you.
Always check nappy, feeds, and straps before leaving.
Consider changing to a different rear facing car seat if bub dislikes the capsule.

Remember, the safety benefits outweigh the temporary fussiness — and most children adjust with time.

Expert Insights on Car Seat Safety

Watch this short video with Dr. Warwick Teague, Director of Trauma, explaining why proper child restraints save lives:👉 How child car seat restraints work

See the difference between rear facing vs forward facing in this crash test demo:👉 Why rear facing car seats are recommended

Conclusion

Rear facing is the safest way for babies and toddlers to travel. Keep your child rear facing for as long as possible, follow car seat height markers, and check harness fit every time you drive. With the right setup, you’re giving your child the best protection against serious injury in a crash.

FAQs: Rear Facing Car Seats

1. How long should my child stay rear facing in Australia? Children should stay rear facing until they outgrow the car seat height markers, ideally until at least age 2 and up until the age of 4 years.

2. Why is rear facing safer than forward facing?Rear facing protects the head, neck, and spine by spreading crash forces more evenly across the body.

3. Can car seat straps be over bulky clothes?No. Bulky clothing prevents the harness from fitting correctly. Always remove thick jackets before strapping in.

4. What is the 2-hour car seat rule?Babies should not remain in car seats for more than 2 hours without a break, to prevent airway restriction and discomfort.

Pinch test example: