So, you’re ready to install your child’s car seat and want to get it right. You have two primary installation methods to choose from: the LATCH system or your vehicle’s seatbelt. Understanding how each one works can help you feel confident as you set everything up for your growing child. This guide walks through the differences between LATCH and seatbelt installation, when each method is appropriate, and how to complete both processes step-by-step. What is LATCH? LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It became a standardized system in the U.S. in 2002 to help caregivers install car seats without using the vehicle seatbelt. All standard passenger vehicles (weighing under 8500 lbs) manufactured after 2002 include LATCH hardware, and every car seat sold in the U.S. today is designed to work with it. The LATCH system includes: Lower anchors: These are metal bars located in the vehicle seat bight, which is the space where the vehicle seat bottom and seat back meet. Tether anchor: This is used for forward-facing car seats. It is usually found on the back of the vehicle seat, on the rear shelf, or on the floor or ceiling, depending on the vehicle model. LATCH connectors: These are attached to the car seat and clip onto the vehicle’s lower anchors. Connectors can be either rigid or flexible. Top tether strap (forward-facing car seats only): This strap extends from the top of the car seat and attaches to the vehicle’s tether anchor. LATCH can help simplify installation, but it might not be the best option for every situation. Anchor placement, vehicle design, and car seat type may influence which installation method works best for you. Can You Use the LATCH System and Seatbelt Together? No, you cannot use the LATCH system and the vehicle seatbelt together to install a car seat. That means you use the LATCH system or the vehicle seatbelt, not both at the same time. Both installation methods are equally secure when done correctly. According to the AAP, there are very rare circumstances in which they can be used together, but only if both the car seat manual and the vehicle manual state that it's okay. Why Can’t You Use LATCH and a Seatbelt Together? It might seem as though using both installation methods simultaneously would add extra stability. However, car seats are not designed or tested to work that way. Car seats go through crash testing with only one installation method at a time. Using both methods together can change how crash forces are distributed, which can affect how the car seat performs. Is it Better to Use LATCH or a Seatbelt for a Car Seat? One car seat installation method isn’t universally better than the other. LATCH and seatbelt installation are both secure choices when used correctly. Your decision often depends on what works best for your family, your car seat, and your vehicle. Here are a few things to think about when deciding between the two options: Child’s weight: LATCH has weight limits. Once the combined weight of your child and the car seat reaches 65 pounds, you should switch to a seatbelt installation. Ease of installation: One method may be easier in your particular vehicle due to anchor and tether locations, or if you have multiple car seats installed at the same time. Vehicle compatibility: Some older vehicles and seating positions do not have lower anchors. How to Install a Car Seat Using LATCH Installing a car seat using the LATCH system typically follows these steps: Read both manuals: Review the car seat manual and your vehicle manual for anchor locations and instructions. This is important because the process may vary slightly depending on your car seat and vehicle. Locate the lower anchors: Check the vehicle seat bight in the rear outboard seats for lower anchors. Attach the connectors: For flexible LATCH, attach each connector to a lower anchor and tighten. For rigid LATCH, line up the connectors with the anchors and push until they click into place. Check tightness: Move the car seat side-to-side and front-to-back at the belt path. It should not move more than 1 inch in any direction. Use the top tether for forward-facing car seats: Connect the top tether to the tether anchor and tighten to reduce forward movement during a crash. How to Install a Car Seat Using a Seatbelt If you are using the vehicle seatbelt to install your car seat instead of LATCH, follow these steps: Read both manuals: Look for instructions on routing and locking the seatbelt in both the car seat and vehicle manuals. This is a crucial step because installation may differ between cars and car seats. Thread the seatbelt: Route it through the correct belt path on the car seat. Lock the seatbelt: Many vehicles have switchable retractors or locking latch plates. Some car seats include built-in lock-offs. Apply weight and tighten: Press down firmly on the car seat as you pull the seatbelt tight. This removes slack. Check for movement: The seat should not move more than 1 inch at the belt path. Find the Right Car Seat With Chicco You have a lot on your mind as your family grows, and choosing the right car seat is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Chicco offers a full range of car seats for every stage, along with helpful installation resources that walk you through each step. Visit the Baby Talk Blog for caregiving advice, installation tips, and to find the car seat that works for your family.