When You Should Convert to a Convertible Car Seat
If you’ve ever been car shopping with a baby or toddler in tow, you know the importance of choosing the right car seat.
But what about when it’s time to upgrade from an infant car seat to a convertible car seat?
It can be hard to decide when to make the switch and which type of convertible car seat is best.
Let’s look into when you should convert to a convertible car seat.
When To Make The Switch?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children remain rear-facing until they reach at least two years of age.
This means that it may be time to switch your child’s infant car seat over to a convertible one once they hit the 1-2 year mark.
However, this is only a general guideline—your child may not be ready for a convertible car seat until they are much older than two, depending on their size and weight.
Additionally, many parents opt for an all-in-one convertible or 3-in-1 car seat as soon as their baby outgrows their infant carrier.
All-in-one and 3-in-1 seats can accommodate children from birth all the way up through 120 pounds, so you won’t have to worry about buying multiple types of seating and swapping them out as your baby grows.
Types Of Convertible Car Seats
When selecting the right convertible car seat for your family, there are several factors that come into play such as size, safety rating, ease of installation, and price point.
Additionally, there are three main types of convertible car seats available on the market: rear facing only seats (RFO), forward facing only seats (FFO), and combination seats (3-in-1).
RFO seats are designed specifically for rear facing use while FFO seats are designed exclusively for forward facing use; combination seats have both modes available in one unit but generally cost more than RFO or FFO models.
Conclusion
Choosing the right convertible car seat can feel like an overwhelming task but it doesn’t have to be!
With just a little bit of research and some careful consideration you can find the perfect option for your family’s needs.
Remember that it’s important to keep your child rear facing for as long as possible—typically until they reach two years old—and then find a type of convertible that works best for your budget and lifestyle.
With so many options available on the market today there’s sure to be something just right for you!
Today’s convertible car seats are safe, comfortable, and easy to install.
Whether you’re looking for a seat that will grow with your child or one that’s specifically designed for infants, there’s a great option out there for you.
And we’ve compiled a list of the five best convertible car seats on the market, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your family.
Just click the button below to check out our list.