How to Choose a Convertible Car Seat
Convertible car seats, also known as infant/toddler car seats, can generally hold a baby from birth up to 40 pounds. You can either use one after an infant car seat and before a booster car seat or skip the infant car seat altogether and go straight for a convertible. Unlike most infant car seats, which can double as baby carriers and have removable bases that stay in the car, convertible car seats remain in the car. This makes them less convenient for some parents, but babies won’t outgrow them as fast as an infant car seat. When choosing a convertible car seat, make sure it meets the needs of you and your baby, as well as safety guidelines.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Select a convertible car seat that meets the size and weight requirements for your baby or toddler. Infants require a car seat that can be rear-facing until they are one year old. Most convertible car seats can work as both rear-facing and forward-facing seats, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure.
-
2
Check the maximum weight limit of the car seat to make sure it will still hold your baby when he is a toddler. If your child is already nearing the weight limit for the convertible seat, you may want to consider getting a booster car seat instead.
-
-
3
Make sure the convertible car seat works with the LATCH system if your car is equipped with it, so that you can install the car seat more safely and easily.
-
4
Find out what type of restraint system the convertible car seat uses. Many convertible car seats have a five-point harness, and some have a bar that lowers over your baby’s lap.
-
5
Look at the padding the car seat and straps have to make sure your baby will be comfortable in the seat. Most car seats come in many colors and patterns, so be sure to choose a car seat based on safety and comfort first, then choose the fabric style.
-
6
Find out how heavy the car seat is, especially if you plan to move it frequently between cars or take it with on airplane trips.
-
7
Consider what accessories the car seat comes with or has available. Some convertible car seats come with cup holders, trays for snacks or toys or storage pockets.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Even if you buy a convertible car seat at a store, you may want to look online first so you can read customer reviews from other parents.
Never use a car seat that is more than six years old or that has ever been in a car accident. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines for installing and using the car seat and obey all car seat laws.
