A newborn should travel in an approved rearward-facing restraint that is suitable for their size and correctly configured for newborn use.
Because every restraint is designed differently, its instruction manual should always be the main guide for harness positioning, inserts and adjustments. The goal is for the baby to remain securely supported with the harness sitting flat and firmly against their body.
Begin with the correct newborn configuration
Before placing your baby in the restraint, confirm it is set up in its rearward-facing newborn mode. Check that any supplied inserts, padding and harness components are positioned exactly as shown in the instructions.
Some restraints are designed with additional capability for smaller newborns. InfaSecure Pilot, for example, includes a low-birth-weight configuration intended to support smaller passengers from their first journeys. Individual fit still needs to be carefully checked.
Only remove or reposition an insert when directed by the manufacturer. Removing it too early or using it incorrectly may affect the baby’s position and harness fit.
Check the newborn car seat harness position
The harness straps should come through the appropriate position specified in the restraint’s instructions. They should sit comfortably across the baby’s shoulders without pulling them downward or leaving excessive space above the shoulders.
Make sure the straps:
- Are free from twists
- Lie flat against the newborn's body
- Sit in the correct position for rearward-facing use
- Are adjusted firmly with no unnecessary slack
- Remain correctly positioned as the baby moves
Pilot’s auto-adjust harness is designed to make adjustments easier as the child grows, but parents should still check the harness position and tension before every journey.
Make sure the harness is firm
A newborn’s harness should be firm enough to hold them securely in the position intended by the restraint. Loose straps can allow the baby to move out of position.
After fastening the buckle, remove any slack from the harness and tighten it according to the instructions. Check around the shoulders and hips to make sure the straps have not folded or twisted.
Recheck the fit before every trip. Even small changes in clothing or growth can affect how the harness sits.
Choose clothing that allows a secure fit
Bulky jackets, padded clothing and thick blankets can create space between the baby and the harness. This may make the harness appear firm when it is not sitting closely against the baby’s body.
Dress your baby in fitted layers before securing the harness. If additional warmth is needed, place a blanket over the secured harness, ensuring the baby’s face remains uncovered and clear.
Check your baby’s overall position
Your baby should remain in the position the restraint was designed to support. Check that they are not slumping or moving into a position that affects the harness fit.
If you are concerned about your baby’s head position, breathing, comfort or overall fit, stop using the set-up until you have sought appropriate advice. Depending on the concern, contact the restraint manufacturer, a qualified child-restraint fitter or your baby’s healthcare professional.
This is particularly important for babies who were born prematurely, have a low birth weight or have additional medical needs. A restraint’s newborn capability does not replace individual medical guidance.
Avoid adding unapproved padding
Do not add cushions, head supports, rolled towels or extra padding unless the restraint manufacturer’s instructions specifically permit them.
Aftermarket accessories can change the baby’s position or interfere with the way the harness performs. Use only the components supplied with the restraint or approved for that particular model.
Check the fit before the first journey
Install the restraint before your baby arrives and practise adjusting the harness while you have time to become familiar with it.
If you are using a restraint such as Pilot, a demonstration with a participating retailer or qualified fitter can help you understand its newborn configuration, low-birth-weight capability and harness adjustment before bringing your baby home.
Frequently asked questions
Where should newborn harness straps sit?
The straps should be positioned according to the restraint’s instructions for rearward-facing use. They should lie flat across the baby’s shoulders without twists or excessive space. Always follow the specific manual rather than relying on a general rule.
How tight should a newborn harness be?
The harness should be firm against the baby’s body with no unnecessary slack. It should securely hold the baby in the intended position without relying on bulky clothing or additional padding.
Can I put a rolled towel beside my baby?
Only if the restraint manufacturer’s instructions specifically allow it or the manufacturer has provided guidance for that model. For InfaSecure car seats, do not add rolled towels, cushions or padding simply to fill space around the baby.
How often should I check the harness fit?
Check the harness position and tension before every trip. You should also review the complete newborn set-up regularly as your baby grows and their clothing changes.
