Choosing a convertible car seat can seem confusing to many new parents. Car seats are the best way to protect your children when they're in a vehicle, and according to the Baby Center, all states require that children be properly restrained in a size- and age-appropriate car seat through at least 18 months of age. Convertible car seats are more economical because they can be used for a longer period of time. They begin as a rear-facing infant seat and convert to a forward-facing toddler seat when your child reaches the height and weight requirements specified by the manufacturer.
Step 1
Determine whether you are looking for a car seat that will be rear-facing and forward-facing which offers the most time that a child can stay in a five-point harness or one that will be rear-facing, forward-facing and a booster seat. While the latter may last the longest, the former offers your child more time in a five-point harness which according to Seat Check is the safest way for a child to travel.
Step 2
Look for a car seat with a high harness weight limit. Some car seats are now manufactured with an 85-pound harness weight limit which means that your child can stay in a five-point harness until they reach 85 pounds. The longer your child can be harnessed, the safer they will stay in the car.
Step 3
Narrow your choices down to three or four car seats that are in your price range, are the type you are looking for and that have high harness weight limits. You will want to select the car seat that has the highest rear-facing weight limit. Many infants will surpass the 20-pound mark before they are 1 year old and must be able to be kept rear-facing at higher weights.
Step 4
Ask the sales clerk if you can install a demonstration car seat in your vehicle. You will want to see whether the seat fits in your vehicle and whether it is simple to install. You should be able to quickly and correctly install the car seat in any vehicle you use. Store clerks should be able to provide the user manual to help with the installation of the car seat.
Step 5
If your baby is with you, put him in the car seat and completely buckle him in. Ask the store clerks for help to be sure you are doing it correctly. To be sure your baby will be comfortable, check for ample hip and shoulder room and that the straps are not pinching your child. If the seat is difficult and time-consuming to install in your car or it seems uncomfortable for your baby, do not buy it.
Tips and Warnings
- Have your chosen car seat inspected by a car seat technician to insure that it meets all applicable laws for your state.
- Failing to use a proper car seat is not only against the law, but it also places your child at risk.
