The arrival of a new baby is an exciting time in life, but at the same time for shopping. Many huge purchases are made in the first years of a child’s life, but buying a convertible car seat is one of the most important. A convertible car seat is a cost-effective solution since you only need one car seat for your baby from infant to toddler.
However, with so many features and things to look for in a safe car seat, it might be difficult to figure out which one you should buy for your kiddo. Here are a few tips to help you buy your baby the right convertible car seat.
1. Examine your car before you shop
Read your car owner’s manual before purchasing a convertible car seat. Baby car seats are attached using the seat belt or the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, available in all modern vehicles. You can decide which one to use before shopping for a convertible car seat and then look for a seat based on how you want to install it.
If you choose to use LATCH, ensure you know where the attachments are in your car. You should also measure your back seat to see the space available for a car seat. The larger the space, the more growing room available and the more use you will get from a particular conventional car seat.
2. Check the lifespan of the seat
Another essential factor to consider when buying a convertible car seat is the amount of time it will be useful to you. If the car seat is only useful for four years, you might have to buy a combination car seat with a harnessed seat and a booster seat. An infant car seat is another model, but you can jump this stage and purchase a compact booster seat from diono.com.
3. Consider the essential features
Look for a convertible car seat model with a 5-point harness side-impact protection compatible with the LATCH system. Premium car seats have additional features, such as a larger anti-rebound bar at the seat foot that reduces the amount of movement during a crash.
Ensure the car seat you buy is easy to adjust as your child grows. Ideally, look for a seat with straps that won’t need to be rethreaded. Most brands today have adjustment handles or a pull cord between the baby’s legs, eliminating the need for rethreading.
4. Look for an easy-to-use car seat
Convertible car seat models differ greatly, with some seats consisting of features that make it easier to install in a car. Consider the time and effort needed to position and tighten your baby in the seat securely. Look for an easy-to-install harness, but ensure you get your car seat inspected by a child passenger safety technician before you take off with your little one. Features such as crotch buckle and check clip design might influence ease of use, so be sure to check how each fits and functions when buckling your baby into the seat.
Endnote
Choosing a safe ride for your little loved one may seem daunting at first. However, if you are well-informed and follow these essential tips, you will drive confidently, knowing your baby is riding on a convertible car seat best suited for them and your family.
