{"id":"ce87e3cb25aa15a86fc7aa7107b6bf61","slug":"how-long-can-a-baby-safely-stay-in-a-car-seat-outside-the-car","question":"How long can a baby safely stay in a car seat outside the car?","answer":"Car seats aren't designed for sleep outside of driving, and the research suggests they shouldn't be used that way regularly. Hundreds of babies die each year while sleeping in car seats—most often in home settings rather than during actual car travel. The risk is highest when someone other than a parent is supervising, which is why it's important to gently redirect babysitters or caregivers if they settle your baby down to sleep in a car seat.\n\nFor naps and nighttime sleep, the safest approach is a crib, bassinet, or play yard—anywhere your baby can lie flat on their back on a firm surface. If you need to use a car seat while out and about (say, running errands), that's fine, but when you're home and your baby needs to sleep, moving them to their crib is what works best. Your baby's safest sleep space is always a firm, flat surface designed specifically for sleep.","sources":"[]","thread_json":null,"topic":"car-seat-safety","view_count":0,"created_at":"2026-09-18T00:00:47.098Z"}