Convertible car seats are absolute lifesavers! Not only do they keep little ones well-protected when travelling in the car, but when you pick the right one, they have the potential to save you some money, too. That being said, it’s best to be wise about which one you choose and not just buy the cheapest (or the most expensive) convertible car seats. It needs to fit your lifestyle and needs.
That’s what we’re here to help with! In this article, you’ll find a quick guide to help you know what to look for in your ideal convertible car seat for your baby. So, strap in and let’s explore the world of convertible car seats.
What is a convertible car seat?
A convertible car seat is a type of car seat that can change from rear-facing to forward-facing and vice versa. They will typically be used for infants to older children and have a weight limit of approximately 45kg. You’ll convert the seat as your child grows and develops. Here are the different positions the seat should be in according to your child’s age:
- Rear-facing (newborns to two-year-olds)
- Forward-facing (two to five-year-olds)
The positioning doesn’t just depend on your child’s age because weight and height will be a determining factor. For example, if your child is two years old but still very small, you should keep them in a rear-facing position until they are big enough.
What to consider when purchasing a convertible car seat:
There are various factors to consider when deciding whether to buy a convertible car seat or not. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Safety
Your baby is definitely the most vulnerable person in the car, this means that their safety really needs to be the most important thing to consider when buying a convertible car seat. To ensure that it is going to provide your baby with the best protection possible, you need to check that the seat is fully compliant with Australia’s safety standards. Above and beyond these safety standards, here are some other impressive features to look out for:
Extra side impact protection
This feature provides car seats with additional protection from side impacts in the event of a crash using added external protection or side wings.
Anti-rebound technology
Using anti-rebound bars and panel car seats that have this feature helps reduce the potential movement that occurs immediately after a crash.
Load leg
This feature is similar to an anti-rebound bar in that it helps prevent increased movement by absorbing the forces caused by collisions.
Extended rear-facing
Typically, kids can sit in forward-facing seats when they reach the age of two years old. However, parents are encouraged to keep their kids in a rear-facing position for as long as possible. Some convertible seats have a maximum weight limit of approximately 26kg to accommodate older kids.
Energy absorption features
Convertible car seats have a feature that is similar to the ‘crumple zones’ on vehicles, although different brands will all have their own version of this technology. The energy absorption features on a convertible car seat are designed to actively absorb crash energy to minimise the impact that forces of a crash would have on your child.
- Budget
Another important factor to consider when buying a convertible car seat is your budget. We all know that you want the best for your child, and it can be easy to assume that the more expensive chairs are going to be better, but this is not always the case. We need to know that all car seats need to meet Australia’s strict safety standards, which means as long as the seat is installed correctly and your child is buckled in correctly, your child should be safe. So pay attention to the features rather than the price, but stick within your budget.
- Materials
Little ones have sensitive skin, so it’s necessary to consider the materials of your convertible car seat before buying it. So always check the materials used to ensure they are mindful of sensitive skin.
- Length of usage
When buying a convertible car seat you need to be thinking of the future. It can be quite a pricey item to buy, and you don’t want to find out that your child is going to outgrow it soon after you’ve bought it. So always consider the height and weight restrictions so you understand how long your child will be able to use it.
- Vehicle fit
Not all convertible car seats are going to fit every car, and this is something that you need to be mindful of before buying one. So, go ahead and assess your car and read the owner’s manual for potential restrictions when it comes to installing car seats.
- Easy installation
Figuring out how to install a car seat can sometimes be the most intimidating part of transporting a baby for first-time parents – but it doesn’t have to be. Many convertible car seats are easy to install, so if you’re going to be moving the seat often, ensure that you buy one that is easier to install and uninstall.
Final Thoughts
Convenient and comfortable, convertible car seats are a wonderful (and very necessary) baby item to have. Unlike the baby capsule that will quickly be outgrown, convertible car seats can easily adapt to your child as they and are able to change from a rear-facing position to a forward-facing position. We hope this guide will help you to make the right decision. Before you make up your mind, go ahead and compare different convertible car seat options here so you can find the perfect fit for your little one.