We keep our children safe as much as we can, and inside the car is no exception. It’s horrifying to think about, but each year, thousands of children are killed or suffer life-changing injuries in car crashes.
Proper use of car seats and seat belts would do wonders in lowering this figure. Unfortunately, there are so many different shapes, sizes, colors, and brands of car seats out there that you might find it hard knowing which is the best convertible car seat for your child.
Convertible car seats are the choice of many parents, as they can pretty much grow with your child. A convertible car seat is first used in the rear-facing position for babies, and then can be switched to front-facing, which is perfect for toddlers.
Graco Contender 65 Convertible Car Seat
As we established in the previous review, Graco is loved by parents all around the globe, and judging by the Contender 65 Car Seat, it’s clear why.
The harness will keep your child secure even along the bumpiest of roads. Don’t worry about it being too loose or too tight – it’s fully adjustable as your child grows.
It’s a super-safe seat and has been lined with EPS energy-absorbing foam. This foam absorbs energy in the unfortunate event of a car crash, increasing the chances of your child making it out unscathed.
Your little one is sure to be super comfortable in this snug seat. There are removable body and head support, which is perfect for younger children. There’s also an 8-position headrest, which can be fully adjusted to match your child’s needs.
Graco has used a Simply Safe Adjust Harness System, so you can adjust the harness and headrest height together in one simple motion – and there’s no rethreading required!
This car seat is easily cleaned too, which is something I’m sure all parents will appreciate. The seat cushion can be easily removed and thrown in the washer, and the metal and plastic parts can be quickly cleaned with soap and warm water.
Pros
- Hassle-free installation using LATCH
- Graco ProtectPlus Engineered so it’s safer than ever
- Lasts for 7 years
- Thoroughly tested
Cons
- Some users complain that the latch can be difficult to operate
Maxi Cosi Pria 85 Max Convertible Car Seat
Maxi-Cosi is known for its top-quality child-care equipment, and their Pria 85 Max Convertible Car Seat is certainly no exception.
This luxurious car seat comes in a variety of colors that will match any car’s interior. Whether you go for passionate pink or loyal grey, you and your child are certain to love the seat.
Safety is something at the forefront of every parent’s mind, but you needn’t stress as much when your child is resting in the Pria 85, as it’s got various safety features.
The Air Protect Technology that this car seat offers, gives your child protection in the most important place – the head. This is especially important for newborns, as their skulls don’t fully develop until anything between 9 and 18 months.
It’s not just safety that the Pria 85 provides – it’s also extremely comfortable thanks to the various comfort features. Your child is sure to be flat out within minutes of sitting on the insert cushions, premium fabrics, and padding throughout.
Your child is sure to feel like they’re sitting on a cloud – you can even recline the seat to make it extra accommodating.
Pros
- Variety of colors to choose from
- Super comfortable
- Safe and reliable
- Choice between Pria 85 and Pria 85 MAX
Cons
- Some parents have difficulty operating the latch
Evenflo EveryStage DLX All-in-One Car Seat
Evenflo has been a trusted source of quality-built child safety systems for around a hundred years, and the EveryStage DLX All-in-One Car Seat certainly adds to their positive reputation.
One of the best things about this seat is in the name – All-in-one. It can certainly burn a hole in your purse purchasing a new car seat whenever your child grows, but luckily, this one car seat should last throughout your little one’s childhood.
There’s no point in spending hundreds of dollars on a car seat that your child won’t be comfortable in, is there? Well, the EveryStage DLX All-in-One Car Seat is one of the most comfortable seats out there.
The custom-cradled fit and built-in reclining feature will provide both extreme comfort and support to your child. The positioning minimizes head slump while helping keep your child’s airway open – what more could you ask for in a car seat?
One of the best things about this car seat is the EasyClick latch feature. We all know how fidgety children can be, but thankfully, the latch easily ratchets to achieve a tighter and safer installation for a wiggle-free seat.
Another super convenient thing about this seat is that the seat pad is machine-washable, so when your child inevitably spills juice on the seat (or worse), then you can just throw it in the washer.
Pros
- Well known and trusted brand
- Grows with your child
- Durable - should last up to a decade
- Adjusts to different positions
- Easy to fasten and adjust
Cons
- Not a budget option
Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat
If you’re a first-time mom, you might not have heard of the Evenflo brand. If you have heard of it, then you’ll know that parents LOVE Evenflo products – and after seeing the Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat, it’s clear why.
Safety features are something all car seats should have, and the Tribute LX is super safe. The structural integrity of the Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat was tested thoroughly at levels twice the federal crash test standard, rendering it extremely safe if you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a car crash.
The seat also features an energy absorbing foam liner, which provides extra safety as well as comfort. If you child isn’t comfy, your ears are sure to know about it.
This seat features an integrated body cushion, which is sure to send your little one to sleep. The comfort doesn’t stop there – as your child grows, you can add the removable head pillow.
Nothing can stop children from being messy, but Evenflo has made it easier to clean the mess up. Any metal and plastics can be wiped clean, and the seat pad is machine washable (yay!).
Pros
- Great price
- Tested at approx 2x the federal crash test standard (so it’s extra safe!)
- Perfect for those who travel as it’s lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Some moms complain about a sharp ridge of plastic above the strap release that can hurt your hand
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat
Graco is one of the world’s recognised and trusted baby product companies, and it’s obvious why parents love their products so much.
Not only is the Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat affordable, but it’s also super safe, comfortable, and easy to clean – it ticks a lot of boxes!
The main feature that draws parents to this seat is the 5 inches of extra legroom. This is perfect for growing children – the 4-position extension panel adjusts to your child’s size. It’s a seat that’s sure to see your child through every growth spurt.
It’s also extremely comfortable. Your child is sure to appreciate the 10-position headrest and the plush seat pad – it will feel like sitting on a fluffy cloud.
You can drive easy knowing your child is safe in the Extend2Fit Car Seat. For ensured safety, ensure your child falls into the recommended weight range (rear facing = 4 to 50 pounds, forward facing = 22 to 65 pounds).
The frame of this seat is super strong, featuring reinforced steel for extra durability and safety in the instance of a crash.
Many seats can take hours to install, but this is super-easy to put together. There’s even an easy to read level indicator to make installation a breeze.
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Easy installation
- Storage compartments
Cons
- Some parents complain that the straps can be difficult to tighten
Choosing the perfect car seat can be a daunting task, especially for first-time moms. Keep reading this guide for some helpful information and tips on what to look for when purchasing a convertible car seat.
Why a Convertible Car Seat?
It seems a waste purchasing a car seat for each stage of your little one’s childhood – especially if you’re on a budget.
This is where convertible car seats come in – they can last your child for years, and some can even be used as a booster seat for older children.
You can use a convertible car seat from birth, but many parents decide to purchase separate car seats for newborns, as convertible car seats are generally heavier and bulkier, and therefore less portable.
Is it Safe Enough?
The reason we use car seats is to keep our child safe in the car – so safety features are something you should be looking out for when purchasing a car seat.
A good car seat will have extra padding for shock absorption, which is not only comfortable for your child but keeps them protected in the event of a car crash.
One thing that should always be checked out is that the car seat has an ‘E’ label – this means that the car seat complies with the correct car seat laws. If it doesn’t have the ‘E’ sticker, then do not purchase the seat.
Is it Convenient for Me?
When purchasing a car seat, it’s not just your baby that you need to be thinking about. If you’re assembling the seat, then you might want to consider how easy it is to put together.
Some car seats come pretty much assembled, but some need to be put together from scratch. If you’re going to be moving it from car-to-car on a regular basis, it’s definitely worth getting a car seat that’s really easy to put together and take apart.
The same goes for washing and cleaning the seat – we all know how messy kids can be, so there’s no point in purchasing a seat that’s impossible to clean.
A good car seat will have removable covers, and it’s always a bonus when they’re machine-washable!
You’ll need to check if the car seat will actually fit in your car – if you have a smaller car especially. Convertible car seats are generally bigger and bulkier, so be sure to check the measurements before splashing the cash.
If you’re going to be carrying the seat around and moving it out of your car on a regular basis, then it’s worth going for a more lightweight and portable seat.
Will My Child Be Comfortable?
There’s nothing more distracting than a screaming child when you’re trying to focus on the road, and an uncomfortable car seat is sure to add to the tears.
Especially for longer car journeys, comfort is a must. Many car seats offer cushioning that’s not only comfortable, but it’s safer too.
The leg support is something that you might want to consider. Some car seats offer extendable leg support that grows with your child – which is a great option if you want the seat to last you a while.
Many parents decide to get reclinable seats with a headrest, which is a sure-fire way to keep your child sleeping soundly in the back seat, allowing you to concentrate fully on the road.
Recap
All of these car seats are comfortable, safe, and convenient, but the Maxi Cosi Pria 85 Max Convertible Car Seat draws us in the most.
This is one of the only car seats that can accommodate children up to 85 pounds, making it a perfect long-term option. You’re certain to save money with this seat, instead of having to purchase a new seat after every growth spurt.
It’s not just the wider weight range that we love – it’s the comfort and safety features that this seat offers. This super comfortable seat has Air Protect Technology, which protects your child around the most vulnerable area – the head.
This seat also features deep rear-facing adjustments and recline, making for a super comfortable car journey, no matter how bumpy the ride.
So, what do you think of our choice for the best convertible car seat? Do you agree?
Let us know in the comments section below, and be sure to share our roundup review with your mom-friends!
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