Nowadays convertible car seats have become extremely popular due to the fact that they are designed to last longer so you get more than a couple of years out of your purchase. They are generally positioned rear-facing to start with until your child reaches around 2 years old, then forward-facing. In the medical profession, pediatricians recommend that an infant is kept rear-facing for as long as possible before moving onto forward-facing.
The best way to be happy with your purchase is to ask yourself the following.
1) Will it fit into the back of my car - is there enough space.
2) Is it value for money.
3) Does it have some great reviews I can read through online.
4) Will it fit the size and weight of my child correctly.
The convertible car seat comes in many colour themes, so on each model you can chose to match the car interior, go for boy or girl colours, or some models even have fun themes. I am sure there will be a colour scheme that you will like once you have decided on the brand and model.
The better manufacturers are the ones which have been in business for a long time and are still manufacturing car seats today. Popular brands are "Graco", "Britax", "Evenflo" and "Safety First". All their products are built around safety so with any of these brands, you can feel confident that your child will be safe.
Below I have noted some of the better models with features to help you make that all important decision.
The Graco Nautilus is very popular. This model is suitable for children from 1 to 10 years old therefore you're not having to buy new seats as the child gets older. It has a 5 point safety harness and has been put through the new car assessment program, with peak crash force approximately twice the required standard. EPS energy absorbing foam provides additional safety and comfort. Other added benefits are an integrated side storage and a cup holder which will securely hold a "sippy cup" or a small bottle which is great as the child gets older.
The Graco my ride 65 keeps your baby in the rear-facing position until about 40 pounds in weight. It has been rigorously tested to protect your child in the event of a crash. The strap on the front makes adjusting the harness quick and easy. There is also a removable infant insert and toddler head rest which will keep the child snug and safe. On a few of the reviews there is comments that people have struggled on the installation with this model, however the problem is solved by reading the manual properly first.
The Evenflo Tribute 5 has a front harness adjust feature which makes it easier to get to the child. It is also side impact tested and has EPS energy absorbing foam and is suitable for a child who is from 5 to 40 pounds in weight. This model is a lot cheaper than other convertible car seats and there is no compromise on safety, just not as eye-catching and minus a few extras.
The Safety First Alpha Omega Elite has a multi-positioning recline with pivoting armrests. It has EPS energy absorbing foam, and a removable cup holder. For the people who could not remove the infant headrest, it is very easy to remove. Un-thread the belts from the clip in the rear, thread out through the front and the headrest slides off.
All in all, im sure there will be a convertible car seat that will be right for you. Remember to think about the considerations I went through earlier and im sure you will be happy with your purchase.
Thankyou for reading my article and I hope you enjoyed the information I have provided.