By the way I have a 4 door, mid sized car (an elantra). Do I need one with a drink holder, reclining seat, moveable armrests?
2007-04-16 10:16:55 · 6 answers · asked by Baileysmom 3 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Toddler & Preschooler
Assuming he/she is over the age of 1, you can get one that is both a 5-point harness and converts to a booster seat. All the bells and whistles are really up to you. Do you want your child to have access to a drink in the car? Do you see a need for them to be able to recline in the seat? etc.
We just purchased the Evenflo Chase ComforTouch for our nearly 4 year old. The 5 point harness can be used until 40lbs, then the booster can be used until 100lbs. In my state (Idaho) they are required to use a booster as long as they are under the age of 7 with no weight requirement. In my neighboring state of Washington the requirement is 8 years 80lbs. So checking your states requirements may also help you choose which seat is best for you.
2007-04-16 10:28:40 · answer #1 · answered by Heather Y 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
You don't need all of those things; particularly a reclining seat. You only would use that if it's a convertible car seat for a younger child than a toddler. I, personally would go with a Britax seat--the straps don't twist, the fabric is comfy, the seat adjusts easily, the latch is really heavy quality, and they're the safest. It'll be a more expensive seat, but it's worth it. I'd go with a Boulevard, a Regent, or a Decathalon--they will hold your child the longest.
I would NEVER get an Evenflo--every seat by them I have seen has had the straps twist really easily and has really cheap plastic. Graco seems like the plastic is a bit sturdier than the Evenflo, but the straps do twist.
I would definitely go with the Britax--better safe than sorry, even if it is more expensive!
I'd take your car to Babies R Us and they should let you test seats in your car so you can find the best fit for your car. They could also suggest a positioning device if it doesn't work. You can always go and have it checked by your local police department, as well. Good luck!
2007-04-16 17:36:37 · answer #2 · answered by Sit'nTeach'nNanny 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You should get a carseat which will be sufficient until your child is 4'9" tall, 80-100lbs, and at least 8 years old. This would typically be a convertible seat which will start out as a baby carseat, then convert to a high-back booster with harness for when your child is bigger. There are a millions of sites out there outlining the regulations by country and/or state. One is listed below, which has a lengthy q&a section.
2007-04-16 17:43:49 · answer #3 · answered by mamaDee 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would get one with a cup holder it comes in handy for toys too. I would look for one that reclines slightly or has the bigger sides for their heads when they fall asleep. The armrest I think get in the way of the seatbelt but not that big of a deal, they like to put them up and down. It kind of depends on the age of the child.
2007-04-16 21:18:02 · answer #4 · answered by Miss Coffee 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
all the new ones will be the same on safety. dont know his age or weight but he will probably need the one that you can later use as a high back booster (use with the seat belt and not the straps) I havent seen any with reclining seat but dont see how it would work b/c you have to strap it in. the drink holder is nice. just look for one with plenty of padding on the seat for their little booty!
2007-04-16 17:21:48 · answer #5 · answered by jon jon's girl 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually the your local DPS or police department has a list of approved carseats. Go by or call and check with them.
2007-04-16 17:21:33 · answer #6 · answered by Ladybug II 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋