Reviews of the Best Baby Car Seats in 2018: Which One Should You Get?
You know it’s time to get a convertible car seat once your child is already big for her baby car seat. Purchasing the right baby gears can be staggering, so finding something that can multitask is a must for most parents. A convertible car seat does just that. Not only will it save your budget, but it’s also very convenient. You can use it as both rear- and front-facing seats.
Is A Convertible Car Seat Right For Me?
Parents usually start using a convertible car seat in its rear-face configuration for infants. You can switch it to its front-facing mode when your child is a toddler. There are even models that you can use as a booster seat for much older children. You can use it from the day you and your newborn steps out of the hospital until he or she is old enough to fit into your vehicle’s seat belt.
Although baby car seats are convenient, your child will eventually outgrow it, and you will have to get a convertible car seat. Each model available on the market today meet the safety standards set forth by the government. However, they are not all created equal. Its lifespan and features will vary from model to model. Check bestcarseathub.com website for some of the best car seats for your family.
When Is The Best Time To Buy A Convertible Car Seat?
Unlike a baby car seat, convertible car seats are bigger and heavier. Moreover, you will not be able to carry it easily and transfer out of your vehicle. However, you can still use most models upon birth. They are not recommended if you will be riding your baby in more than one car.
Also, keep in mind that the rear-facing is the safest. Regardless of your child’s height, make sure to keep your little in a rear-face position for as long as you can or up until he or she is two years old.
Convertible car seats are ideal if you’re after convenience and saving on your budget. At the end of the day, your choice will always depend on your family’s needs. With that in mind, we have come up with a list of the top-rated car seats in 2018 to help narrow down your choices.
Best Overall: Graco Extend2Fit
Graco Extend2Fit is one of the high-end models of the brand with an affordable price tag. Even if it is comparatively lightweight, the results of its crash test are rather impressive. It’s simple to use and comes with features to make your child comfortable during the ride such as a footrest and harness retainer. It also comes with handy dual cup holders and a harness with no rethread height adjustment.
However, if you have a smaller car, this 19 inches in width convertible car seat may not be for you. Also, you may find it harder to install than others on this list. However, Extend2Fit makes it easy for you to utilize its rear-facing configuration.
Pros:
- The five-point harness system is safe and simple to use.
- Can accommodate kids up to 65 lbs.
- Very affordable.
- Went through rigorous crash tests.
- A sturdy steel frame.
- Its level indicator can be read easily.
- Value for money.
Cons:
- Installing the belt can be quite a challenge.
- Very bulky.
- You need to attach the cup holders.
Best Budget-Friendly: Evenflo Sonus 65
A higher price tag does not equal highest quality. All baby car seats went through meticulous testing to ensure they meet safety standards. If you’re in the market for a reliable, safe, and inexpensive convertible car seat, Evenflo Sonus 65 is your best option.
The seat comes in three vibrant colors. It can accommodate kids for up to 40 lbs on rear-face and up to 65 lbs on front-face. Its harness slot is 18 inches so it can last your child throughout his or her booster seat stage. Its shoulder straps come in six positions, making it easy to find a suitable fit for your little one. Your kids will also be comfortable throughout the ride thanks to its ventilation system. The Sonus 65 is a great choice for parents on a budget.
Pros:
- Value for money.
- Passes all federal safety standard tests with flying colors.
- Very comfortable.
- Regulates temperature.
Cons:
- Its harness is stiff and difficult to disconnect.
- Only one position for recline.
- Rear-face mode takes up a lot of space at the back seat of your vehicle.
Best For Bigger Kids: Maxi Cosi Pria 85
The Maxi Cosi Pria 85 is a very comfortable convertible car seat. It can accommodate children up to 85 lbs, so this armchair for a seat can last your kid for a remarkably long time. Its big padding feature cushions with AirProtect around its head are providing your baby added protection for side-impact. You can snap the padding off of its frame without the need to uninstall the seat.
The Pria 85 does have some drawbacks though. Since it’s heavily padded, it’ll take some time to dry it. Its price tag is not cheap either. However, its convenient features such as harness holders and anchor connectors make up for it.
Pros:
- Cushions are great at protecting your little ones.
- Machine washable and removable cover.
- Harness is no re-thread.
- Comfortable seat.
Cons:
- Not fit for newborn babies.
- Cushions are not machine washable.
- Kids will not be able to stretch their legs in front-facing position.
- Converting it from rear-face to forward-face mode is difficult.
Best For Smaller Vehicles: Clek Fllo
If your car is on the smaller side, the Clek Fllo is the one for you. This convertible car seat is made from quality materials. It comes with an adjustable headrest and dense supportive foam to provide children with comfort. Its rear-facing mode features an anti-rebound bar and an easy-to-use belt.
However, this convertible car seat is quite heavy and challenging to install. Its cover is also not removable which can make it hard to remove your child in the event of a crash. The Clek Fllo is a good car seat for those looking for a narrower option for their small cars.
Pros:
- Compact with fantastic safety features.
- The rear-facing mode can be extended.
- Its fabric is easy-to-clean.
- Easy installation and can be used in an airplane.
Cons:
- It’s a bit pricey.
- You can’t wash it in the washing machine.
