Convertible Car Seats

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When you think “car seat,” it’s likely that you’re picturing a Britax baby seat – their name has been synonymous with child safety for decades. They have plenty of rivals on the market though, with cool features and modern technological advances that may be a better fit for you.

For instance, we love the super-deluxe Clek Foonf Convertible Car Seat, which boasts a patented energy absorption system and a look that really pops. Looking for something just a little lighter? The Clek Fllo Convertible Car Seat is the same seat minus the rigid LATCH. For ease of installation, you can’t beat the Chicco NextFit Convertible Car Seat, which utilizes a unique pulley system for an ultra-tight install, and is the perfect next step up from the popular Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat [l]. For plush comfort and luxurious Euro style, you can’t beat the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 5/70. Want a convertible car seat that can serve as a stroller seat in a pinch? Try the Orbit Baby Toddler Seat!

And for longevity, look to Diono: the Diono Rainier Car Seat is not only a convertible car seat that can be used from birth, but it also converts into a booster for kids weighing up to 120 pounds. Wow!

For most convertible car seats, the voyage begins when your baby is born, although a few of the models above start a little later, and we really like infant car seats for that early stage – an infant car seat, as opposed to a convertible, can usually attach to a stroller with an adapter, forming a travel system which is really convenient when babies are small. Infants should ride rear-facing in their car seat, for optimal safety; current recommendations suggest keeping your child rear-facing until at least age 2, although you can keep your car seat rear-facing for as long as the weight limit and height limit allow. Weight limits on car seats are important, so be aware of your seat’s limits and stick to them precisely for the best possible protection for your baby!

Facing forward or backwards, most of our convertible car seats allow for installation either with a seat belt or with your car’s LATCH system. Correct installation is key for your child’s safety, so follow the directions in the car seat instruction booklet carefully, and if you’re not sure you’ve got your car seat installation right – or even if you are! – find your nearest child car seat inspection station here.

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