Definition: Convertible Seats can be used in both the Rear-facing and Forward-facing position. They are especially useful for big babies who have outgrown their infant only seat, but still need to be rear-facing until they are two years old.
Convertible Seats When Used Rear Facing:
- According to the latest car seat guidelines, infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing car seat (infant-only rear facing car seat or rear-facing convertible car seat) until they are two years old or until they have reached the weight and height limits of their car seat.
- If a younger infant or toddler meets the weight or height limits of an infant only seat before age two years, it is likely safest to move the child into a convertible seat which is recommended for a child up to 35-40 pounds in the rear-facing position. This seat is also placed rear-facing.
- Harness straps should be at or below infant's shoulders when used rear facing.
- Harness chest clip should be at infant’s armpit level.
- All are rated for children up to 40 pounds, although some newer convertible seats have higher 65 to 80 pound weight limits.
- Once children are two years old (or, regardless of age, have outgrown their rear-facing car seat) children should sit in a forward-facing car seat with harness straps as long as possible and until they reach the weight and height limits of their car seat.
- Harness straps should be at or above child's shoulders. Use top harness slots of safety seat.
- Harness chest clip should be at child’s armpit level.
Featured Convertible car seats:
- Graco Comfort Sport Convertible Car Seat
- Cosco Alpha Omega Elite Convertible Car Seat - 35 pounds rear facing weight limit, 40 pounds forward facing with harness straps and 80 pounds as belt positioning booster seat
- Britax Roundabout Convertible Car Seat
- Britax Marathon Convertible Booster/Car Seat - 33 pound rear facing weight limit and 65 pound weight limit for harness
