The Best Convertible Car Seat

When you begin your search for a good car seat, you will find that there are two types available: infant car seats and convertible car seats. We are going to talk about the differences in the two and then focus on exactly what you will need to know before purchasing a convertible car seat.

What is a Convertible Car Seat?

Infant car seats hold only newborns up until the child weighs 35 to 40 pounds. They only come in rear facing designs. On the other hand, a convertible car seat will convert from a rear facing seat to a forward facing seat for older children. Convertible car seats can be used for newborns as well as the older children weighing up to 40 to 80 pounds with a height of 40 to 57 inches depending on the make and model of the seat.
Convertible car seats can save you money by eliminating the need for a separate infant seat, but some parents prefer to start with an infant seat regardless. This is due to the ability of a larger car seat to overwhelm a tiny newborn. If you do wish to start out with a convertible, it is perfectly safe and legal, but you will want to invest in padding and newborn inserts to make the seat fit your infant comfortably.

Convertible car seats are heavier than infant seats. They are installed in the vehicle rather than clicked into a base the way newborn car seats are. This means that you won’t be able to take the convertible car seat in and out of the vehicle frequently, carry the child in them, or attach them to a stroller.

What to Look for in a Convertible Car Seat

Easy to Use

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a five star rating system for car seats. The more stars they give a convertible car seat, the easier it is to use. This rating system takes into consideration how simple it is to install the car seat as well as how easy it is to securely place the child in it. It also reflects upon the content and clarity of the instructions the manufacturer gives you.
Five Point Harness

These straps are crucial to the child’s safety. They are found on all newer models, and they include one strap for each shoulder, one for between the child’s legs, and one for each hip.
Side Impact Protection

Some convertible car seats include specially designed features that further protect the child in the case of a side impact. These features include energy absorbing foam that will better protect the head and chest.

Simple Adjustments

As your child grows, you will have to adjust the harness. The better car seats let you adjust the harness and straps’ height from the front of the device. Some even offer a single handed belt adjustment that includes quick release buckles.

LATCH

All vehicles and convertible car seats have been compatible with the LATCH system since 2002. This system provides a way to attach all car seats to the vehicle’s frame rather than using the seat belts to hold it in place. Convertible car seats come equipped with the necessary lower anchor connectors and top tether straps. Manufacturers may suggest that you do not use the top tethers when the seat is in a rear-facing position. Check the manual for details. There will also be a label with a weight limit on the car seat. When the child reaches this weight, the seat needs to be installed with the seat belt instead.

Comfort

Remember to keep baby’s comfort in mind when shopping for a convertible car seat. Look for one with plenty of padding and head support for a better ride.

Cleaning

Messes like to follow kids everywhere, and this includes the car. There are several convertible car seats that offer a detachable cover that you can machine wash for easy clean-up.

Safety Notes

Installation

Convertible car seats are installed in the back seat only. Babies and toddlers under the age of three should be facing the back of the vehicle. Experts recommend keeping a child in the rear facing position for as long as possible to ensure safety. Many of the new convertible car seats can remain in the rear facing position until the child reaches 40 pounds.

Used Convertible Car Seats

Experts do not recommend buying pre-owned car seats. They could have been in an accident, there can be missing parts, not meet current safety guidelines, or have been recalled. In addition, plastic does become brittle with age. Older seats may not hold up as well as newer models when in a crash. If you must use a pre-owned seat, check to be sure it has not been in an accident, is less than five years of age, and includes all parts and instructions.

Recommendations

If you are trying to stay under budget, the Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat, Saturn is an excellent choice for under $50. It includes body cushions to keep babies comfortable and a removable head pillow for the older kids. This convertible car seat meets or exceeds all federal safety standards, and it has passed Evenflo’s own side impact testing. The five point harness ensures your child’s safety, and the attractive dark gray color allows it to fit in nicely with most vehicle interiors.

When money is not an issue, parents can purchase the Graco 4ever All-in-One Convertible Car Seat, Matrix for a price tag of around $300. This convertible car seat includes a very unique four in one design. You can get ten years of service from this one car seat. The rear facing position is for babies weighing 4 – 40 pounds while the front facing position handles toddlers weighing 20 – 65 pounds. The high back belt mode is ideal for older children between 30 and 100 pounds, and the backless mode can be used for those between 40 and 120 pounds. This stylish black and gray design has all the bells and whistles like two cup holders for added convenience.

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This page about Convertible Car Seat was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
It was last updated on 2024-04-23 08:04:26 and has been viewed 3520 times.