(Image 1 to the left, Image 2 to the right)

Like many of these types of questions there is no blanket answer that is correct so read below carefully;

Best Practice: 

It’s best practice to follow the cleanest, shortest recommended path for your tether straps – from the anchor point to the child safety seat.  In other words, when you go to do the installation you will know which way is the cleanest by looking at the pathway the tether strap has to follow, whether it’s originating from the roof, rear deck, or back of the vehicles seat.  In the case above, the second photo the buckle is raised, and in the first photo the buckle looks to be seated a little “cleaner” – so in this case at least, it would be better to have buckle facing the first way, assuming it didn’t introduce unnecessary twisting.  The reality though, is the other way isn’t specifically “wrong” – which many people will get hung up on, especially potential clients’ friends or family who believe they know better.  Your best outcome here is client management.

Keep in Mind:

You may come across some installation combinations where the buckle must face upside down, as something may be impeding (perhaps the clip is too large for the space allowed, the anchor point location is unobtainable with the buckle facing a certain direction, etc) the buckle connecting in the preferred position.  In this case, you are left with no choice but to have the buckle clipped not quite as cleanly as you’d hoped – this install is still acceptable as it’s connected to a legitimate anchor point location, utilising the correct clip, assuming it is the best possible cleanest way.

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