The 14 Best Convertible Car Seats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best convertible car seats collaged against a patterned green background — Verywell Family / David Hattan

A child’s car seat is one of the most important purchases you’ll make as a parent or caregiver. Convertible car seats are a particularly smart choice because they evolve into multiple modes of use to accommodate growing kids—from birth up to 10 years old, transforming from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster. When choosing a convertible car seat, you’ll want to consider safety features, height and weight recommendations, ease of installation and use, comfort, size, cleaning instructions, durability, harness type, and additional features, like machine-washable material, adjustable headrests, and a multi-position recline.

To find the best convertible car seats, we researched safety guidelines issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP),the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).We also spoke to parents and medical professionals, including Benjamin Hoffman, MD, AAP president-elect and nationally recognized child injury prevention and education expert, and Alisa Baer, MD, pediatrician and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, LLC. A family physician on ourReview Boardalso reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity around the importance of car seat safety, like seating positions, safety harnesses, and more. With this guidance in mind, we researched dozens of top-rated convertible car seats in the market and considered theirdesign, safety features, and value. We then narrowed our list down to 22 convertible car seats that met all of our criteria, and sent them home with our parenting editors to test in their own vehicles with their children ages 4 months to 4 years old.

When testing convertible car seats, we first unboxed them and reviewed the instruction manuals to ensure proper installation. Next, we set a timer and installed each convertible car seat using both the seat belt and LATCH systems. We then wiggled the seats from side to side and front to back to ensure we followed the 1-inch rule (the seat should not move more than 1 inch in any direction).After completing the installation, we placed our children into the car seats and secured the harnesses, positioning the chest clips just below their armpits before tightening them to fit. We used the convertible car seats almost daily during the initial four-week testing period to determine ease of use, durability, and safety. We also cleaned each car seat according to the manufacturer’s recommendations when needed.

After thorough testing, we chose the 14 best convertible car seats to feature in our article. Our editors and their kids continue to use these convertible car seats in their daily routines to help determine their long-term quality and durability. We will update this list as our editors provide additional feedback to ensure we recommend the best convertible car seats.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Evenflo Gold Revolve360 Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Overall Runner-Up:

Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Rotating:

Graco 3-in-1 Rotating Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Installation:

Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Slim:

Diono Radian 3RXT Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

Nuna RAVA Convertible Car Seat at Potterybarnkids.com

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Best Comfort:

Safety 1st Grow and Go Extend 'n Ride LX All-in-One Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Basic:

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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最好的肩带:

Maxi-Cosi All-in-One Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Evenflo

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Our Ratings

Design

5 /5
Ease of Installation

5 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Rotates 360 degrees
Double cup holder
One-time, secure and simple installation

Cons

Rear-facing recline sometimes impacts driver/passenger seat

The rotating capability, straightforward installation, and many safety features of the Evenflo Gold Revolve360 Convertible Car Seat blew us away. This rotating car seat swivels effortlessly 360 degrees to get a child in or out in all modes, including rear-facing (4 to 40 pounds), forward-facing (22 to 65 pounds), and high-back booster (40 to 120 pounds). To rotate, pull up one of the levers on either side of the car seat and spin it until you hear it click into place. We loved being able to rotate the seat one-handed while still holding a child in the other hand.

Installing the Evenflo Gold Revolve360 is straightforward and took us only 12 minutes on the first try. The QR code on the seat leads you to helpful tutorial videos for two installation options: seat belt and tether, or lower anchor and tether, also known as LATCH. A unique locking mechanism in the base keeps the whole unit safe and secure. In addition to a clicking sound, level and locking indicators on the seat and base turn green to ensure a proper and safe installation. We can confirm that the Evenflo car seat felt sturdy following installation and never budged during car rides. Conveniently, a pocket on the back of the seat stores the manual in case you need to reference it later.

To accommodate growing kiddos, the convertible car seat features a 14-position adjustable headrest (no-rethread harness), one recline position in forward-facing mode, and four recline positions in rear-facing mode (though you may need to move the driver or passenger seat forward to make room). Children will also love having two cup holders for water bottles, snacks, or small toys. Buckles on the five-point safety harness are a breeze to manage and easily adjust to fit the rider comfortably. The dreaded red button on a car seat’s safety buckle wasn’t dreadful at all—we unbuckled it one-handed with zero effort.

Available in four colors—moonstone gray, opal pink, onyx black, and sapphire blue—the plush polyester material on this car seat is comfortable for tiny tushes and provides trouble-free cleaning for adults. The Revolve360’s seat is removed from the base by rotating it out of the locked position, which is very helpful if you need to take it out for thorough cleaning. One of our parenting editors even took the seat inside their home to vacuum out crumbs, avoiding a trip to the car wash or gas station vacuums. The seat pad is machine washable in cold water on a delicate cycle, and the safety harnesses wipe clean with mild soap and water before air drying. You can also give the crotch buckle a thorough wash by placing it in a cup of warm water and gently agitating it back and forth, but you should avoid submerging the harness strap.

We find the cost of the Evenflo Gold Revolve360 reflective of its intuitive and useful features, especially the 360-degree rotation. Additionally, the car seat grows with your child without giving up the rotation function. Register the Revolve360 to activate the company’s lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing irregularities for the life of the car seat.

Price at time of publication: $400

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limits:4 to 40 pounds and 17 to 40 inches tall |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and 28 to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 120 pounds and 44 to 57 inches tall |Dimensions:19.8 x 25.9 x | 21英寸Product Weight:29.6 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable seat pad; safety harnesses wipe clean with mild soap and water (air dry only) |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Walmart

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Our Ratings

Design

5 /5
Ease of Installation

4.8 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

4.9 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Three modes of use for kids 4 to 100 pounds
Storage pockets for harness
Extension panel for extra legroom

Cons

Square cup holders

The Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Car Seat gave the Evenflo Gold Revolve360 strong competition for the top spot on our list. This Graco car seat offers three modes of use to grow with your child: rear-facing (4 to 50 pounds), forward-facing (22 to 65 pounds), and high-back booster (40 to 100 pounds). The car seat has soft, plush head and body inserts for infants you can remove once they’ve outgrown them. In addition, a four-position extension panel provides up to 5 inches of additional legroom, so children can remain in a rear-facing position longer comfortably. And the six-position recline and 10-position headrest (both a breeze to maneuver) make for a safe and cozy ride anywhere—no rethreading necessary.

We finished installing the Extend2Fit 3-in-1 in less than 15 minutes. The level indicator is a welcome addition that helps eliminate seat belt or lower anchor (LATCH) installation concerns. Storage pockets conveniently hold the five-point safety harness out of the way, while a special compartment on the back stores them when in belt-positioning booster mode. We had zero issues handling the buckles—and neither did a 3-year-old who quickly learned how to help click the buckle into place during our test. The convertible car seat felt sturdy and secure following installation and still looks brand new after months of use.

We love how two cup holders are an excellent spot for toys, juice, or snacks; just be aware they’re square-shaped and may not fit every drink bottle. Cleaning the car seat is effortless, as we only needed a vacuum. For big accidents, the seat pad is machine washable in cold water with gentle soap on a delicate cycle (drip dry only). However, the company says the harness is surface wash only, so you can only use mild soap and a damp cloth or wipes. We used wipes on the car seat for minor dirty spots and ensured not to submerge the straps in water per Graco’s recommendation.

Price at time of publication: $250

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:4 to 50 pounds |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 57 inches tall (at least age 4) |Dimensions:20.75 x 19 x 24.5 inches |Product Weight:20.61 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable seat pad (drip dry only); safety harnesses are surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth or wipes |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

5 /5
Ease of Installation

5 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Rotates left or right with single push of button
SnugLockcompartment provides extra security
Large cup holders

Cons

One-handed rotation difficult sometimes
Rotation is only for rear-facing mode

The Graco Turn2Me is another solid rotating car seat that scored highly on our tests. We immediately fell in love with its ability to rotate by pressing a button on either side. The car seat turns left or right to put a child in or take them out and clicks into place when you rotate it back. It’s important to note that the Turn2Me does not rotate in forward-facing or booster positions (only rear-facing). Also, during our test, we sometimes found it a bit difficult to rotate the car seat one-handed because it rubbed against the vehicle’s seat. Children can ride rear-facing in the car seat from 4 to 40 pounds, so they’ll use the rotating feature for years. There’s also the option for kiddos 22 to 65 pounds (up to 49 inches tall) to ride forward facing, and once they hit 40 pounds and at least 43 inches (up to 100 pounds and 57 inches tall), they can switch to the high-back booster.

Installing and setting up the Turn2Me is really a piece of cake—it took us only 14 minutes from the moment we opened the box to having it completely installed and ready to use. The whole process is quite intuitive, and we were particularly impressed by the company’s unique “SnugLock” technology. To secure the car seat using this feature, you thread the seat belt through a special compartment on the back of the car seat (or the base, if used in rear-facing mode) and click the mechanism. The system provided a secure installation and never made us question the 1-inch rule. A colorful level indicator on one side tells you if the car seat is in its proper position for rear-facing or forward-facing. And if you’re stuck during installation, the company includes a QR code on the car seat you can scan for installation videos.

The Turn2Me has a four-position recline and a 10-position headrest for comfort and fit without rethreading. Each feature performs with the push or pull of a button, which we had no trouble operating. Removable plush infant inserts keep little ones safe and sound on the road. Our older kiddos appreciated the double cup holders that fit water bottles of various sizes, like 12 and 16.9 ounces, snacks, or (speaking from experience) Hot Wheels cars. As parents and caregivers, we loved the five-point safety harness and special strap pockets to hold the parts out of the way. The harness and buckles are easy to adjust, click together, and unbuckle. Finally, the lower anchors and harness (in belt-positioning booster mode) can be stored in the designated compartments for a neater setup.

Cleaning the car seat is also very convenient. The polyester seat pad is removable for machine washing, while the harnesses are surface wash only with mild soap and a damp cloth or wipes. We used a gentle soap and little water to remove Veggie Straws’ dust from the seat and that worked out great—you’d never know it was there.

With its rotating capability and SnugLock compartment, the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car Seat is worth the upfront investment. Thanks to its three modes, your child can use the seat from birth through their early school years (up to 10 years). Bonus: It’s also certified for use in rear-facing and forward-facing harness modes on a plane.

Price at time of publication: $450

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:4 to 40 pounds |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 57 inches tall (at least 4 years old) |Dimensions:20.75 x 19.13 x 24.4 inches |Product Weight:30 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable seat pad; harnesses surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth or wipes |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.5 /5
Ease of Installation

5 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Fast and simple installation
Easy-to-use buckle
Comfy, plush material

Cons

No booster mode
No cup holders
Large size

If you plan on moving the car seat often, consider the Britax Boulevard ClickTight. The five-minute installation is straightforward and uncomplicated, leaving the unit solid and sturdy—it didn’t move at all once we installed it. While there is no booster mode with this convertible car seat, children can use it from birth (5 to 40 pounds) in rear-facing mode and transition to forward-facing when ready (20 to 65 pounds).

The car seat is large and requires quite a bit of space in rear-facing mode, so you may have to adjust the driver’s or passenger’s seat to give it enough room. A clear colored indicator ensures the car seat is level—regardless of rear- or forward-facing—for all seven recline positions. For additional convenience, a 14-position headrest creates a comfortable fit as your child grows.

The five-point harness felt effortless to clip together and was easy to put on our kiddo during testing. In addition, a comfy, plush material encompasses the durable steel frame for a cozy ride every time. Another great feature of the Britax Boulevard ClickTight is its signature “SafeWash” cover, which uses flame-retardant and flame-resistant material and is machine washable and dryer safe. However, not all Britax Boulevard car seats have Safewash covers. According to the manufacturer, the following color options use the new covers: purple contour, gray contour, blue contour, black contour, green contour, and cowmooflage. The rest of the colors and fashions use seat covers that should be hand washed and line dried only.During our test, we only had to spot-clean minor spills and no stains or residue were left behind.

A car seat that’s quick to install is priceless if you move it from vehicle to vehicle often. In addition, the Britax Boulevard ClickTight comes with a one-year warranty to protect against defective materials or workmanship.

Price at time of publication: $360

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 40 pounds and up to 49 inches tall |Forward-Facing Limit:20 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:N/A |Dimensions:23 x 18.5 x 23.7 inches |Product Weight:29.4 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:None |Cleaning Instructions:Hand wash cover using cold water and mild soap (line dry only); sponge clean harnesses using warm water and mild soap (towel dry only) |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Diono Radian 3RXT Convertible Car Seat With SafePlus

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.8 /5
Ease of Installation

4.5 /5
Ease of Use

4.8 /5
Durability

4.9 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Foldable
Space-saving design
Can fit 3 across

Cons

Challenging install initially

Whether you’re welcoming a new addition, are limited on space, or simply need to accommodate three car seats, the slim design of the Diono Radian 3RX is the solution. This convertible car seat works from birth (5-pound minimum) up to 120 pounds (and 57.1 inches tall) through three modes: rear-facing, forward-facing, and high-back booster. Kids will love the 12-position headrest—for all modes of use—to ride comfortably. In addition, the company includes a newborn travel wedge and 2-in-1 infant positioning liner for your family’s newest arrival. While the three-across car seat doesn’t offer recline positions, it installs with a recline in rear-facing mode. If you find the recline too much, Diono sells anangle levelerto create a more upright position.

We love how quick and simple the machine-washable material is to clean. During our testing period, we gently spot-cleaned it and vacuumed it when necessary, and the fabric is still smooth and soft after months of use. The color slightly faded over time, but it’s not discolored or torn in any places. A five-point harness is a breeze to adjust, and the buckles gave us no issues, even when the car seat was taken on a plane to Europe. Installing it in a European vehicle was a little challenging, but we got the hang of it and felt thankful for the seat’s compact design. The car seat’s “ClickTight” technology, or self-tensioning system, removes the guesswork of a stable installation in both a plane and a vehicle. Another big plus of the Diono Radian 3RX is its folding capability for quick transportation in airline terminals or storage in a vehicle.

If you travel often or need a three-across car seat, this Diono option won’t disappoint you. Its higher price tag is worth its travel-friendly features, like the folding function and slim design, and it grows with your child.

Price at time of publication: $300

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 50 pounds (35-pound maximum with LATCH) |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds (40-pound max with LATCH) |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 120 pounds |Dimensions:16 x 17 x 28.5 inches |Product Weight:28.1 pounds |Cup Holder:One |Cleaning Instructions:Machine wash cold and line dry; shell and components are spot clean only |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧

Nordstrom

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Our Ratings

Design

4.8 /5
Ease of Installation

5 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

4.9 /5
Ease of Cleaning

4.5 /5

Pros

No rethread, 10-position headrest
Roomy and plush memory foam
Spot cleans well

Cons

Must reinstall to adjust recline

The Nuna Rava Convertible Car Seat is roomy, solid, and plush, and offers up to 10 years of use in rear-facing and forward-facing modes. We were immediately impressed with the convertible car seat’s buckle holders to keep straps out of the way while you load a child. Parents and caregivers will also appreciate how the five-point harness seamlessly buckles and unbuckles each time and doesn’t require rethreading to adjust the 10-position headrest. Children will love the Nuna Rava’s memory foam cushion, extra leg room, and 10-position recline to stretch and relax comfortably. Plus, double cup holders secure drinks, snacks, and other goodies for the car ride.

We took approximately 15 minutes to install the Nuna Rava and thought the process was straightforward, thanks to detailed instructions. Colored belt path indicators help you guide the belt through the seat to minimize installation errors. The only drawback we found during testing is that you must reinstall the seat to adjust the recline. Still, the seat’s sturdiness and side impact protectors compensate for the minor inconvenience.

This high-end convertible car seat is surprisingly low maintenance. Spot cleaning takes care of most messes—including dirt and minor stains left by a 2-year-old—but you can also remove the seat cover and harness pads from the all-steel frame and toss them in the washing machine if needed.

The Nuna Rava is one of the highest-priced car seats on our list but for a good reason. Nuna is an exclusive brand that offers great quality. The company covers most of its gear with a two-year warranty, beginning from the date of purchase.

Price at time of publication: $550

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 50 pounds (5 to 35 pounds with LATCH) and up to 49 inches tall |Forward-Facing Limit:25 to 65 pounds (25 to 40 pounds with LATCH) and up to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:N/A |Dimensions:16 x 19 x 25.2 to 31 inches |Product Weight:27.2 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Seat cover and harness pads machine washable with cold water and mild detergent on delicate cycle (air dry only); hand wash harness with sponge and warm soapy water (towel dry excess water and air dry) |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧

Safety 1st

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Our Ratings

Design

4.7 /5
Ease of Installation

4 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Foldable footrest provides extra legroom
Spring-assist system for harness
Snack up lid for cup holder

Cons

Buckles initially stiff

The unique footrest of the Safety 1st Grow and Go Extend ‘n Ride is why it earned our best comfort spot. The “ComfortPlus” footrest provides an extra 7 inches of legroom in all three riding modes: rear-facing (5 to 40 pounds), forward-facing (22 to 65 pounds), and belt-positioning booster (40 to 100 pounds). Although the footrest is sturdy and easy to adjust, you can also fold it if your kiddo decides not to use it.

The secure and quick installation is a parent’s dream. We installed the Safety 1st Grow and Go Extend ‘n Ride in less than five minutes. Despite no leveling indicator, the car seat features marks on the seat to ensure you’ve installed it correctly.

一个可调头枕和三位置倾斜allow for an enjoyable riding experience at any age. Kids can use the two removable dishwasher-safe cup holders for drinks or snacks on the go. A BPA-free snack lid (included) fits on the cup holders, so you can leave containers at home. While the buckles felt a tad stiff upon the first installation, we appreciated the five-point harness for security. The special “spring-assist” system kept straps popped up for easy in and out and was a surprising but welcome addition.

Another fantastic feature of this Safety 1st car seat is its high-quality fabric that feels durable and plush. In addition, the removable seat pad is safe to toss in the washing machine and dryer without removing the harness. The car seat looks brand new after months of testing and near-daily use. The budget-friendly price tag of the convertible car seat is the cherry on top.

Price at time of publication: $220

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 40 pounds |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 100 pounds |Dimensions: 19.29 x 31.73 x 28.74 inches |Product Weight:Not listed |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable seat pad |Expiration:10 years}

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.2 /5
Ease of Installation

5 /5
Ease of Use

4.3 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

4.8 /5

Pros

Four-position extension panel for legroom
Level indicator
Sturdy installation

Cons

Straps tough to adjust sometimes (twist occasionally)
No booster mode

No, you’re not seeing double! The only difference between Graco’s two Extend2Fit options is that the 3-in-1 convertible car seat (our best overall runner-up) has a booster mode and this one doesn’t. But don’t let that deter you from considering this basic car seat—children can use it from 4 to 50 pounds in rear-facing mode and 22 to 65 pounds in forward-facing mode. In addition, a four-position extension panel provides up to 5 inches of extra legroom if you want to use it rear-facing longer or give tall kids more space.

A six-position recline keeps drives (short or long) comfortable and is uncomplicated to adjust. Two cup holders store your child’s favorite snacks and drinks within arm’s reach. Buckling and unbuckling the five-point harness is intuitive and simple, but the strap twisted a few times during our testing period and it was difficult to flip back. Additionally, adjusting the straps occasionally resulted in a struggle, as we needed a little extra muscle to pull the straps down.

There are two ways to install the Graco Extend2Fit: LATCH and with a seat belt. We appreciated the level indicator on the side of the seat to ensure we had a safe installation. Once installed, the car seat’s steel-reinforced frame feels sturdy, durable, and never rattles. As for the car seat’s material, it’s held up well against the consistent use of a 4-year-old. However, putting the removable seat cover back on was difficult. Still, removing stains required no effort (only our washing machines).

The Graco Extend2Fit has a fair price and a few nice features, like the adjustable panel for extra leg room and strap pockets to keep the harness out of a child’s way. Despite no major bells and whistles, Graco is a well-known baby gear brand with budget-friendly products. For additional savings, you can also sign up for Graco emails and receive 15% off your next purchase and 20% off when you sign up for text messages.

Price at time of publication: $235

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:4 to 50 pounds |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:Not a booster |Dimensions:21.5 x 19.5 x 23.5 inches |Product Weight:19 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable seat pad in cold water with gentle soap on delicate cycle (drip dry only); harnesses are surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth or wipes |Expiration:10 years}

华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.5 /5
Ease of Installation

4.3 /5
Ease of Use

4.5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Harness holders
Integrated harness and headrest system
Padded seat

Cons

Installation may be difficult
Somewhat large

Fishing for straps after putting your baby into their seat is a thing of the past with the Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One Convertible Car Seat. Harness holders on each side of the seat hold straps out of the way so you don’t have to dig for them as you try to secure a wiggly baby in their seat. It’s an underrated feature we quickly fell in love with and can be used in both rear-facing (4 to 40 pounds) and forward-facing (22 to 65 pounds) modes.

The initial installation of the convertible car seat was confusing, so we resorted to YouTube videos for help—and it paid off. We installed the car seat in five minutes after watching the videos. Securing the unit was the only difficult part of the installation, requiring extra strength to push hard on the base and pull on the belt at the same time. In addition, the car seat’s large size is a design feature to consider if you’re accommodating more than one child or have a smaller vehicle. However, we could still fit people on each side of the car seat in the back row while testing.

There’s no lack of comfort with this convertible car seat thanks to a three-position recline and five-position headrest. We love how the integrated headrest and harness system means no rethreading for a customized fit. The buckles are easy to use and all pieces click smoothly into each other. Additionally, the soft fabric features plenty of padding and feels cushiony. According to Maxi-Cosi, all fabrics on the car seat are machine washable and dryer-safe. Another much-appreciated feature of the Maxi-Cosi car seat is the double cup holders for simultaneous snacks and drinks—and they remove for easy cleaning by a simple twist-and-lift motion.

Price at time of publication: $270

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:4 to 40 pounds and 19 to 40 inches tall |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and 29 to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 52 inches tall |Dimensions:34.5 x 20 x 30.5 inches |Product Weight:21.7 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable and dryer safe fabrics; wipe plastic, metal, and vinyl parts with a damp sponge or cloth |Expiration:10 years}

The Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One Convertible Car Seat set up in the car — 华体会体育吧

Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat

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Our Ratings

Design

4.7 /5
Ease of Installation

4.8 /5
Ease of Use

4.5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Slim, lightweight design
Leveling indicator
Energy-absorbing foam for extra protection

Cons

Cup holder falls off
Difficult to access button to loosen straps

The Graco Contender Slim is a budget-friendly convertible car seat that doesn’t sacrifice the great features you’d find in splurge-worthy options. Like the Nuna Rava, for example, the Graco Contender Slim grows with your child using a rear-facing harness (5 to 40 pounds) and forward-facing harness (22 to 65 pounds)—all at well under half the cost of the Nuna. The car seat’s slim, lightweight design is our favorite feature because it saves space in a vehicle or on a plane. The two-position recline is simple to achieve thanks to a gauge on the side of the seat. When installed correctly, the ball in the gauge sits in a green zone, so you can tell if the car seat is positioned correctly. We also appreciate the eight-position headrest that accommodates a growing child via the single push of a lever without rethreading.

Installing the Graco convertible car seat is the biggest drawback we encountered. While it only took us 15 minutes to install, we had to pull hard on the strap to tighten the seat when using the LATCH system. After installing it, we thought the car seat felt sturdy and safe.

Tokeep children safe, the Graco Contender Slim features a five-point safety harness system that’s straightforward to operate. The buckles are bulky and easily trap underneath a child’s tush but click together seamlessly. Additionally, navigating the button to loosen the straps was difficult because of its hidden placement underneath a flap at the seat’s base. However, there was one feature that really impressed us and made up for the minor flaws: The seat’s energy-absorbing foam to protect children in frontal, rear, side, and rollover crashes.

A removable, dishwasher-safe cup holder works on either side, but we knocked it off several times when putting a 15-month-old into the seat. There are also removable, plush head and body inserts for infants. A removable seat pad is machine washable with gentle soap in cold water on a delicate cycle (drip dry only). However, thanks to the durable material, we’ve only needed to brush off the seat and use a hand-held vacuum to clean it during the testing period. We haven’t noticed any wear and tear after many months of use in the winter and spring.

At $160, the Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat is a great value. While you don’t get bells and whistles, the price tag is more than fair for a unit that grows with your child for 10 years.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 40 pounds |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:Not a booster |Dimensions:21.5 x 18.9 x 24.75 inches |Product Weight:16 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Single |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable seat pad on delicate cycle in cold water with gentle soap (drip dry only); harnesses are surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth or wipes |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Chicco OneFit ClearTex All-in-One Car Seat

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.1 /5
Ease of Installation

4.7 /5
Ease of Use

5 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

10-position headrest to grow with child
9-position recline in all modes
Three modes of use

Cons

Large size for small vehicles

The Chicco OneFit ClearTex All-in-One Car Seat converts into three modes to adapt to growing kids from birth to 100 pounds: rear-facing harness (5 to 40 pounds), forward-facing harness (25 to 65 pounds), and booster (40 to 100 pounds). The removable head and body support insert provides additional comfort for newborns weighing 5 to 11 pounds. A nine-position recline is possible in all modes, and we thought adjusting the 10-position headrest and harness system (no rethreading) was painless. Moreover, we enjoyed the uncomplicated use of the buckles, with all pieces clicking into each other well.

From start to finish, we installed the Chicco OneFit ClearTex in less than 10 minutes. Pushing the seat belt through the seat was a bit tedious, but you can also use LATCH connectors. A QR code on the seat takes you to helpful installation videos, while Chicco’s ReclineSure leveling indicators let you know you’ve found a proper recline. While the OneFit ClearTex isn’t too large, you may still need to move it to the passenger’s side in a small car if the driver is tall and needs space (like we did). However, it’s narrow enough to work as a three-across car seat in larger vehicles, like SUVs. Regardless of your vehicle and how many seats you need to accommodate, two cup holders fold in to maximize space.

We haven’t noticed any wear or tear after several months of testing. The polyester seat cover removes with ease from the steel-reinforced frame and is machine washable in cold water using mild detergent (hang dry only). Overall, we’re impressed with the Chicco OneFit ClearTex’s safety features and adjustable functions.

Price at time of publication: $300

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5到40磅,43英寸高|Forward-Facing Limit:25 to 65 pounds and up to 54 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 100 pounds and 38 to 57 inches tall |Dimensions:21.5 x 19 x 27 inches |Product Weight:25 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable in cold water using mild detergent (hang dry only) |Expiration:10 years}

华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.5 /5
Ease of Installation

4.5 /5
Ease of Use

4 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Fast installation
Held up well after months of use
5-position adjustable headrest

Cons

Large size
Only three recline positions

If you’re going to move a car seat often, a lightweight option like the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat will work for you. This car seat weighs only 18.7 pounds—a big difference from the Britax Boulevard ClickTight’s 29.4-pound weight. Use the car seat in the rear-facing position for children from 5 to 40 pounds, forward-facing from 22 to 65 pounds, and as a belt-positioning booster from 40 to 100 pounds. A five-position headrest and harness adjust in a single motion, and you don’t have to worry about rethreading the straps. While the car seat’s three-position recline is more upright than others we tested, our almost 2-year-old had no complaints about comfort. We also love the harness holders to keep straps out of the way as a child gets in or out.

Rapid installation is one of our favorite Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One features. We installed the car seat in about 30 seconds without needing the manual or asking for additional help. Despite no color-coded leveling indicator, the seat features a rear-facing line to show if the seat is level. After installing the car seat, we thought it felt solid and durable. We didn’t need instructions to navigate how the buckles work, and they never caught or gave us trouble.

系统网络体系结构(sna)的汽车座位上有两个可移动的杯座cks and drinks and they're very easy to clean. In addition, the seat cover is removable and safe to toss in the washing machine and dryer. During testing, we used the car seat daily for months and noticed zero quality changes. At $180, we’re surprised with the price tag of this Safety 1st car seat. We highly recommend it for its easy installation, comfort for kids, and safety features, like the side impact-tested headrest.

Price at time of publication: $180

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 40 pounds |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds |Booster Seat Limit:40 to 100 pounds |Dimensions:24 x 19 x 24 inches |Product Weight:18.7 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:Double |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable and dryer safe seat cover |Expiration:10 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.5 /5
Ease of Installation

4 /5
Ease of Use

4.9 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

5 /5

Pros

Looks great after months of use
10-position头枕和利用(没有重新喂料)
Sleek design and plush feel

Cons

Difficulty using lower anchors
Low maximum weight

你的徽章x和一个可移动的强度特性er for quick cleaning without removing the harness, which is quite convenient. We also love how durable the material feels. We tested the slate fashion cover for the Emblem, which features the brand’s signature SafeWash materials. SafeWash covers are flame retardant and flame resistant, and they are also machine washable and dryer safe. It’s worth noting, though, that not all Emblem car seats use SafeWash covers. According to a Britax spokesperson, the company is transitioning to the new materials. Right now, only the slate colorway uses the updated cover; the dusk, dash, and fusion color combination covers should be hand washed and line dried.During our test, we mostly had to spot clean with wipes, which was enough to keep the car seat looking like new. We did remove the cover to wash it and found the process pretty straightforward, but putting it back on the steel frame was a little more challenging. Even after a run through the washing machine and the dryer and months of use, the car seat cover has remained soft and pillowy, which is why we made this our best pick for an easy-to-clean convertible car seat.

This Britax car seat also features a three-position recline and 10-position harness and headrest to help you get the best fit for your child without rethreading the straps. We found these functions simple to maneuver via the press of a button. The five-point safety harness was easy to adjust and use and never caused issues. While the Britax Emblem seems large, the overall design looks sleek. The plush foam padding is a great addition to the seat’s comfort, and we’re thankful for the two layers of side impact protection. Although the manual’s instructions are clear, the initial installation took us longer than expected because we couldn’t get the LATCH connectors to click into place until the third try with two people helping.

The price of the Britax Emblem is spot on for a convertible car seat. It’s a solid rear- and forward-facing seat you can use with your child from 5 to 65 pounds.

Price at time of publication: $250

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:5 to 40 pounds and less than 49 inches tall |Forward-Facing Limit:20 to 65 pounds and less than 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:Not a booster |Dimensions:21 x 18.25 x 26 inches |Product Weight:19.5 pounds |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:None |Cleaning Instructions:Machine washable and dryer safe seat cover |Expiration:7 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Design

4.3 /5
Ease of Installation

4.5 /5
Ease of Use

4 /5
Durability

5 /5
Ease of Cleaning

4 /5

Pros

Super secure and strong
Rigid LATCH installation
Sleek design matches vehicle interiors

Cons

Learning curve with installation

The Clek Foonf looks like it belongs in the future with its simple yet eye-catching design that matches your vehicle’s interior. We’re impressed with the steel anti-rebound bar to prevent rebounding when rear-facing in a frontal accident and rotation in a side impact. The company says the car seat is built like a tank—and we agree. The car seat secures directly to the vehicle’s frame thanks to its rigid LATCH installation method. We installed it in about 30 minutes using the instructional videos to ensure we followed the steps correctly. The rigid LATCH installation makes the unit feel extremely secure and features a clicking sound and color indicator to show the seat is correctly installed and leveled.

五点安全带可调到6positions using one hand, so you don’t have to twist your back to get your child secure and comfy. We recommend loosening the strap when taking your child out of the seat to make it easier the next time you put them in. Unless you separately purchase the company’s “infant-thingy” (an insert) for babies 5 pounds up to 19 inches, the Clek Foonf has a 14-pound minimum weight limit for rear-facing. On the plus side, children can rear-face longer in the Clek Foonf thanks to its 50-pound maximum weight limit in that mode. When ready, children can forward-face in the car seat from 22 to 65 pounds, but no earlier than age 2, and they must be 30 to 49 inches tall.

While the convertible car seat may feel large in a small car, it’s only 17 inches wide, making it a great three-across car seat. In addition, its many safety features, like an anti-rebound bar and rigid LATCH installation, are worth the higher investment for the long-term benefits.

Price at time of publication: $580

^{Key Specs:
Rear-Facing Limit:14 to 50 pounds and 25 to 43 inches tall |Forward-Facing Limit:22 to 65 pounds and 30 to 49 inches tall |Booster Seat Limit:Not a booster |Dimensions:28 x 17.5 x 16 inches |Product Weight:33 to 38 pounds (depends on mode used) |Harness Type:Five-point |Cup Holder:None |Cleaning Instructions:Remove cover and hand wash in solution of mild detergent and water, rinse in clear water and hang to dry |Expiration:9 years}

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华体会体育吧
华体会体育吧

How We Rated Convertible Car Seats

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best convertible car seats we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These convertible car seats are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great convertible car seats, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These convertible car seats are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend convertible car seats with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

Convertible Car Seats We Also Tested

Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat:我们喜欢轻量级设计和budget-friendly price tag of the Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat. We had no problems transporting it through the airport, and its installation was a breeze. However, the car seat isn’t high-quality and features no adjustable recline or headrest positions for rear- and forward-facing modes.
Chicco NextFit Zip Convertible Car Seat:We are currently testing this car seat and will update this list as soon as we have feedback.
Graco 4Ever DLX SnugLock Grow 4-in-1 Car Seat:We are currently testing this car seat and will update this list as soon as we have feedback.

How We Tested Convertible Car Seats

To find the best convertible car seats, we began our research by studying AAP,NHTSA,and FAAsafety guidelines. We also spoke with parents and medical professionals, includingBenjamin Hoffman, MD, AAP president-elect and nationally recognized child injury prevention and education expert, andAlisa Baer, MD, pediatrician and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, LLC, to learn about what to look for in a convertible car seat. We then looked at dozens of convertible car seats on the market and narrowed our list down to the top 22 options that met all the safety guidelines and recommendations. Since our goal is to evaluate the best convertible car seats in the real world and in the long term, we sent our picks to parenting editors to use with their own kids and vehicles during their normal routines for an initial four-week testing period followed by an extended six-month test. We asked them to assess each convertible car seat on several key attributes, including ease of installation, design, safety, ease of use, durability, ease of cleaning, and overall value.

在我们的测试,我们编辑首先从箱子中取出的vertible car seats and laid out any parts or pieces to assemble and ensure the kit was complete. Most car seats arrived fully assembled, minus a couple of pieces, such as cup holders. Next, we carefully reviewed instructions, noting if they were easy or difficult to understand. Then, we set a timer to track how long it took us to install the convertible car seats according to the manufacturer’s directions in vehicles of various sizes, like a GMC Terrain and a Volkswagen Jetta. Finally, we installed the seats in our vehicles using both methods of installation, the LATCH system and the seat belt. As we installed the car seats, we noted the steps and challenges of the installation process, safety features, and if the seat had a level reader to indicate a proper installation.

Once installed, we wiggled the car seats forward, back, and side to side to ensure we followed the 1-inch rule (the seat should not move more than 1 inch in any direction).If a car seat featured a rotating function, we asked our parenting editors to describe how it worked and if the rotation could be done with one hand. Then, we placed our children into the car seats, securing the harnesses by positioning the chest clip just below a child’s armpit level before tightening the straps. We paid close attention to each car seat’s ease of use, including getting a child in and out, the simplicity or difficulty of adjusting straps, headrests, or recline, and the overall durability of the material over time. We cleaned each car seat thoroughly at least once during testing by following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

We have now been testing these car seats for months to ensure their durability and performance in the long term. Our editors continue to use them almost daily and provide insights to ensure we’re recommending the best convertible car seats. We’ll update our list with current information on how the convertible car seats fare over the next six months and beyond.

What to Look for in a Convertible Car Seat

Seating Positions

Rear-Facing

Convertible car seats grow with your child, often accommodating children beginning immediately after birth. The difference between a convertible car seat and an infant car seat is portability. Infant car seats are rear-facing, like a convertible option, but your child will likely outgrow their infant seat after a few months, so you'll have to purchase another one. A convertible car seat is safe to use from birth and up but doesn't click into a base or remove for transportation. All-in-one convertible car seats mean one less purchase, and you'll have it for years.

Be sure to check the manufacturer's age, height, and weight recommendations, especially if you're bringing home a preemie (they should be screened at the hospital first).

Rear-facing is the safest way for children to ride as long as possible until they hit the maximum weight or height limit allowed by the manufacturer.Small children are at greater risk for head and spinal cord injuries, and rear-facing provides better support for the head and neck in the event of a crash.

According to Dr. Hoffman, one of parents' and caregivers' biggest mistakes is turning their children around earlier than necessary. While it's exciting to see your child reach significant milestones and watch their growth and development flourish, it's best to delay the transition to forward-facing as long as possible. Most manufacturers allow kids to forward-face at a minimum of 22 pounds, but they also have rear-facing limits of at least 40 to 50 pounds. Dr. Hoffman says almost no child will hit 40 pounds before their second birthday, so keep them rear-facing at least until then.

A big concern for parents and caregivers—and why they turn children too soon—is the lack of legroom. Dr. Baer notes that a child's feet touching the back of the vehicle does not indicate they are too big for rear-facing. Additionally, she says children could even reach 3 or 4 years old before they hit their car seat's rear-facing limits.

Forward-Facing

Once your child reaches the car seat's appropriate height and weight limits, they will transition to a forward-facing seat with a five-point harness. Parents and caregivers should keep their children in a forward-facing seat with a harness and tether until they reach the top height or weight limit by the car seat's manufacturer, according to the NHTSA.Depending on the car seat model, this can happen when the child is 4 to 7 years old. Still, you may want to look for a seat with limits on the higher end because meeting a height or weight requirement doesn't necessarily mean your child is ready to use a high-back booster.

最早的绝对贝尔博士建议transitioning a child out of a forward-facing seat is 5 years old, assuming they weigh at least 40 pounds and are mature enough to use a seat belt. The child must sit properly (even when sleeping), or they aren't ready for a booster seat.

Booster Seat

A high-back booster seat may be the last configuration a child needs before transitioning out of a car seat. However, there are some instances where a child has maxed out their height and weight limit for the high-back booster, but they still aren't quite ready to go without a boost, which is when a backless booster seat comes into play.

According to Dr. Baer, kids should pass every part of the 5-Step Test before going booster-free. The 5-Step Test includes these steps: knees bending comfortably at the edge of the seat with feet flat on the floor, their bottom in the back of the seat, the lap belt hitting low on the hips yet at the top of the thighs, the shoulder belt crosses on the collarbone, and the child can stay seated in all these positions for the entire ride, every time.

So, a backless booster is appropriate if your child has maxed out their high-back booster's height and weight limit but hasn't passed this test yet. You can expect your child to remain in the booster until they are between 10 and 12 years old.

Ease of Installation

霍夫曼博士说,大约80%的标准ents and caregivers make serious errors when installing rear- or forward-facing car seats. He explains this isn't because adults aren't trying their best, but because car seats can be complicated. Car seat installations can be done with a vehicle's seat belt or lower anchors, also known as LATCH. Either is acceptable, Dr. Hoffman adds. Review the car seat manufacturer's and your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations to ensure proper installation. The standard rule is that the car seat shouldn't move more than 1 inch from side to side or front to back. You should wiggle the car seat occasionally to ensure nothing is out of alignment.

Seat Belt Installation

Car seats with a seat belt installation option will have a belt path for the seat belt to route through for security. To do that properly, the seat belt must be locked (which typically activates when you're in an accident) at all times to ensure the car seat does not move more than 1 inch from its position. Most seat belts have a manual lock option specifically for car seat installations, but some car seats also feature built-in locking devices for extra security.

LATCH System

The car seat and your vehicle must have their respective components to use the LATCH system. Any car made in the year 2000 or later will have tether anchors. One set can be found in the backseat tucked between where the seat and backrest meet. (Some are easy to find, others take a bit of digging.) You will almost always find two anchors in the seats behind the passenger and the driver. Vehicles with only one row of seats in the back may also have anchors for middle-seat installation.

Additionally, there will be at least one more anchor, which can usually be found on the back of the vehicle seat in SUVs and minivans or the shelf below the back windshield of a sedan. Some vehicles also have anchors on the ceiling or the car floor behind the backseat. You can find out exactly where the anchors in your vehicle are located by looking at the owner's manual.

Both forward-facing and rear-facing car seats will come equipped with two lower anchor connectors attached to a belt (made of material similar to a seat belt) and clip onto the lower seat anchors. Once you clip them in securely, you will tighten the belt as much as possible to ensure the car seat does not move around. Whether your car seat is convertible or not, once it is forward-facing, there is a third tether hook on a strap that fastens to the anchor behind or above the seat. (Look at your car owner's manual to locate it). After you've placed the hook, you'll tighten the strap so that the backrest of the car seat does not move.

Rigid LATCH

There is also a lesser-known installation category, according to Dr. Baer, and it is called the Rigid LATCH. It is the strongest and most secure installation, but unfortunately, it's only found in four car seat models in the U.S., including the Clek Foonf. The rigid LATCH uses a metal connector (instead of a strap) that comes out of the seat and attaches directly to the lower anchor.

Remember, the only way a car seat will keep your child safe is when it's properly installed. If anything is unclear, don't hesitate to contact a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) in your community or call the manufacturer's customer service line.

Additional Features

Strap Design

While every car seat includes a five-point harness, Dr. Baer encourages parents and caregivers to consider strap design. She advises parents to look for straps that don’t twist and that pull smoothly, as properly buckling your child into their seat for every ride is just as important as installing the seat correctly.

According to Dr. Hoffman, the safety harness should fit children snugly, and we shouldn’t be able to pinch any slack over the child’s shoulder and collarbone. Ensure your child is not wearing thick clothing, as the material essentially compresses in a crash like it doesn’t exist, Dr. Hoffman explains. A child’s chest clip should also sit at armpit level, but check your car seat’s instruction manual. Additionally, be aware of European seats because they may not meet American safety standards and feature a three-point safety harness.

If you plan to install the seat using a seat belt, Dr. Baer recommends one with a built-in locking device. It typically makes for a tighter install and prevents tilting when relying on the seat belt’s own locking mechanism.

Anti-Rebound Bar

When possible, another feature to look for is an anti-rebound bar, says Dr. Baer. These special bars help prevent a rear-facing car seat from moving toward the back of the vehicle in a crash, preventing the child’s head from hitting the back of their own vehicle seat. Very few convertible car seats come with an anti-rebound bar—the Clek Foonf is the only option featured on our list—but you can often purchase them separately.

Size

Consider the size of your vehicle relative to the car seat’s size. Dr. Hoffman says one of the frequent incompatibilities he sees with car seats is the unit interacting with the vehicle’s front seats. Your car seat’s manufacturer will let you know if the two seats can touch or if there must be space between them. For example, a 6’5” parent or caregiver will likely have the driver or passenger’s seat back for leg room, which affects where you position the car seat in the back.

If you plan on using the car seat on an airplane, opt for a lightweight option like the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat, so you don’t have to lug it around terminal after terminal.

Cost

Convertible car seats have a fairly wide price range, with some booster seats available for $50 and others costing several hundred dollars. The average price of a convertible car seat is between $200 to $300, depending on features. For example, you'll likely pay more upfront for a rotating car seat like the Evenflo Gold Revolve 360. While convertible car seats are an investment, they protect your child in the event of a crash, so choosing the best one is important.

Dr. Hoffman advises against looking for secondhand car seats for sale. A car seat that has been in a significant accident should not be used again. If you're not 100% positive about the history of a car seat, don't buy it. Also, consider the car seat's expiration date (usually found on a sticker at the base). Once they're over their expiration date, the seat's integrity diminishes and won't provide your child the same level of protection.

Remember: You don't have to splurge if it's not within your budget. Dr. Hoffman says all convertible car seats sold in the United States must meet federal safety standards, so even the least expensive seat on the market meets strict safety requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I switch from an infant car seat to a convertible car seat?

Once your baby has exceeded an infant car seat's height or weight limits, it is time to transition to a convertible car seat. Your baby may outgrow their infant car seat before they turn one.Since convertible car seats can typically accommodate newborns, you can skip the infant car seat and opt for a convertible option from the start.
When should a convertible car seat be forward-facing?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping your child in a rear-facing position as long as possible. A general rule of thumb is once your child has reached the height or weight limitations set by the manufacturer in rear-facing, you can safely move them to the forward-facing option.For most children, that’s until the age of 4 or 5.
我的孩子应该从什么时候开始由转换吗ible car seat to a booster?

Once your child has outgrown the forward-facing height or weight restrictions and fits the measurements for the booster seat (ideally no sooner than 5 years old), you can transition them safely. Many convertible car seats transition from forward-facing to a high-back booster you can use until the child reaches at least 100 pounds. Overall, you want to ensure the booster seat stays in the back seat until a child is 12.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Katrina Cosseyis a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son. Katrina has years of experience with multiple car seats, including theChicco KeyFit 30when her son was born, before transitioning to theGraco Extend2Fit 3-in-1for one of her family’s vehicles and theGraco SlimFit 3-in-1in another. She tested theGraco Turn2Meand was blown away by the rotating seat, which made it effortless to get her preschooler in and out quickly and seamlessly. It’s the best car seat she’s ever used for her son.